Assessment of Green Hydrogen Production in a Laboratory Environment Using Surplus Photovoltaic Generation and Its Potential Applications

This study evaluates the use of surplus photovoltaic energy for green hydrogen production through water electrolysis, followed by storage in compressed tanks and reconversion into electricity with a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, completing a closed “Power to Power” cycle. The approach combines experimental operation in a laboratory microgrid with a techno-economic assessment, including subsystem characterization, round-trip efficiency, and the levelized cost of hydrogen. Quantitative results show an annual output of approximately 447.49 kg of hydrogen, a round-trip efficiency near 31%, and a production cost of about 68.79 USD/kg. Beyond energy storage, the study includes a concise appraisal of fuel cell mobility applications, showing the potential use of the produced hydrogen for institutional transport within the laboratory context.