OPTIMIZATION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY-BASED ALKALINE ELECTROLYSIS SYSTEMS FOR SUSTAINABLE HYDROGEN PRODUCTION
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive optimization study of hydrogen production systems through alkaline water electrolysis powered by photovoltaic energy sources, with a specific focus on Central Asian applications. The research systematically investigates critical operating parameters including KOH electrolyte concentration (25-30 wt%), temperature effects (25-80°C), current density optimization (100-500 mA/cm²), and electrode material performance using cost-effective 316L stainless steel. Experimental results demonstrate that optimized systems achieve solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 13-15%, with hydrogen production costs ranging from $2-8/kg depending on system scale. The study reveals that maximum performance occurs at 30 wt% KOH concentration, 60-80°C operating temperature, and 200-400 mA/cm² current density. Long-term stability testing over 1000 hours confirms electrode degradation rates below 0.01 mm/year and performance degradation under 2%, validating projected operational lifetimes exceeding 20 years. For high solar irradiation regions like Uzbekistan (>2000 kWh/m²/year), the analysis indicates potential hydrogen production cost reductions of 20-30% compared to temperate climates. The integration of maximum power point tracking control improves overall energy utilization by 12-15% relative to direct coupling configurations. These findings provide practical guidelines for implementing economically viable green hydrogen production systems in solar-rich developing regions.