Modeling and simulation of hybrid system coupling a photovoltaic generator, a PEM fuel cell and an electrolyzer (Part I)

This paper describes a PV-FC hybrid system consisting of a photovoltaic generator, a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), an electrolyzer and a hydrogen storage tank. The load is supplied from the photovoltaic generator through a chopper (DC-DC) governed by a control MPPT (maximum power point tracking). If the power delivered by the photovoltaic exceeds the power required by the load, there will be a power excess that allows to feed the electrolyzer. The latter will supply hydrogen to be stored in a tank for a later use in the fuel cell (PEMFC), for generating electricity needed to operate the load when the PV is unable to meet the demands. The analytical models and simulations for the compound system will be presented and commented.