A technical evaluation of Wind-Hydrogen (WH) demonstration projects in Europe

Investment in Renewable Energy Sources (RES) is at the center of energy policy in Europe. A key shortcoming of renewable energy is the issue of intermittency which can pose a risk to the security of energy supply. Energy storage thus becomes essential in order to address the mismatch between energy demand and supply. The utilization of Wind-Hydrogen (WH) energy storage systems and Fuel Cells provides a viable solution. This paper presents a technical evaluation of Wind Hydrogen (WH) Demonstration projects in Europe; the scope of evaluation includes a comparative analysis of: design criteria, operation and energy management together with technical challenges. It is argued that Renewable Hydrogen and Fuel cell Energy systems require more efficient electrolyzers and better energy management systems and that lab-scale testing is essential in order to inform the development of future demonstration projects.