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PV panels to generate hydrogen

New research project in Hamelin combines photovoltaics and electrolysis directly - hydrogen to be used for residential buildings without detours

05.05.2025

Source: E & M powernews

Researchers are working with partners in the district of Hameln-Pyrmont to develop solar modules that can generate hydrogen to supply energy to homes without any detours.

The research team at Weserbergland University of Applied Sciences (HSW) in Hameln (Lower Saxony) has been working on a new approach to decentralized energy supply since January. In the "Hydrogen PV panels" project, the experts are testing solar modules that are directly connected to electrolysis cells. The green electricity is to be used directly to produce green hydrogen for single and multi-family homes.

HSW is coordinating the project. Prof. Peter Britz is in charge of the project. He has extensive experience in the fields of hydrogen technologies, fuel cell systems and energy conversion. HSW is supported by Westfalen Weser Energie GmbH & Co KG, a regional energy supplier based in Paderborn, as well as other partners. According to HSW, in addition to private households, these include local craft businesses with expertise in hydrogen technologies and storage systems as well as local authorities and energy cooperatives.

The project is being funded by the European Union and the district of Hameln-Pyrmont as part of the "Weserbergland+ region of the future". The project is scheduled to run for three years - from January 2025 to December 2027.

No inverters or additional power electronics

The PV panels are to be installed on the roofs of houses. Surplus solar power can be stored in the form of hydrogen and used in winter to generate heat or in combined heat and power plants. According to the project team, the system does not require central converter units, which should increase cost-effectiveness and improve efficiency. Frost-protected outdoor components are also part of the concept so that hydrogen can be produced and stored all year round.

In the first phase of the project, functional prototypes are to be developed and tested under real conditions, according to the Hamelin-based company. The aim is to bring the technology to the point where it can be used in a broad building segment.

Author: Davina Spohn