Innovative Electrolyser Advancement for Storing Renewable Energy in Czech Republic
Key Ideas
- The Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals in the Czech Republic has developed a new electrolyser to store surplus renewable energy in the form of hydrogen.
- The electrolyser boasts advantages such as fast start-up, low installation costs, scalable design, and energy-efficient power use, contributing to grid stability and reducing carbon footprints.
- The device can deliver hydrogen at full power in less than three minutes, enabling the efficient utilization of excess energy from renewable sources like solar and wind power plants for decarbonisation.
- Seeking a commercial partner, the institute aims to mass-produce the technology, potentially benefitting energy companies, industrial enterprises, and organizations striving for sustainability.
The Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals of the Czech Academy of Sciences has developed a cutting-edge electrolyser to address the challenge of storing surplus renewable energy as hydrogen. This breakthrough was announced in a press release highlighting the device's superior speed compared to currently available electrolysers in commercial markets. The new electrolyser offers various advantages, including rapid start-up, cost-effectiveness in installation, a scalable modular design, and efficient use of power sources. Vladislav Drinek, one of the creators of the electrolyser, emphasized its flexibility and fast response to power surpluses in the grid. The device works by breaking down water into oxygen and hydrogen when provided with electricity, with the hydrogen collected as a clean energy source, particularly beneficial if originating from renewable sources for 'green hydrogen.' The technology's swift response time and use of an ion-selective membrane aid in maintaining grid stability, especially during times when renewable energy sources produce excess power. This advancement is poised to contribute significantly to the decarbonisation efforts in various sectors, including industry and transportation. The institute has already filed for international patents to safeguard their research results and is actively seeking a commercial partner to bring this technology to market. The potential applications of this electrolyser extend to energy companies, industrial players, and any entities aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices. The article also mentions an existing electrolyser installation by Solar Global in Czech Republic, emphasizing the growing interest in green hydrogen production and its benefits for transportation and environmental conservation.