The integration of renewable energy sources into electric grids is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality goals. However, the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like wind power often leads to energy curtailment and grid instability. Power-to-hydrogen systems, which use excess renewable energy to produce hydrogen through electrolysis, offer a promising solution to enhance grid flexibility and energy storage. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers are particularly suitable for this application due to their rapid response times and high efficiency across a wide load range.
This study, conducted by Chengxi Liu et al. from Wuhan University and Politecnico di Torino, proposes a flexible dispatch strategy for electric grids integrated with PEM electrolyzers. The research focuses on developing a detailed model of PEM electrolyzer performance, considering its part-load efficiency, hydrogen and oxygen crossover effects, and auxiliary power consumption. The strategy aims to optimize the dispatch of electricity and hydrogen production to minimize the total operating cost of the grid while maximizing the utilization of renewable energy.

The results demonstrate that the proposed dispatch strategy significantly improves the economic and operational performance of the electric grid integrated with a PEM electrolyzer. Key findings include:
1.Economic Benefits: The strategy reduces the annual total operating cost (TC) of the grid by 1.2% compared to a constant efficiency model, and by 2.1% and 2.6% compared to scenarios without the electrolyzer and with limited electrolyzer operation, respectively.
2.Wind Energy Utilization: The integration of the PEM electrolyzer reduces wind curtailment, especially in scenarios with high wind power generation.
3.Hydrogen Production Efficiency: The electrolyzer's efficiency curve allows for more precise and cost-effective dispatch decisions, leading to lower hydrogen production costs.
4.Sensitivity Analysis: The strategy remains economically advantageous when coal prices are below $121.6 per tonne and hydrogen prices range from $2.9 to $5.4 per kg.

This research provides a robust framework for optimizing the operation of electric grids with integrated PEM electrolyzers. By accurately modeling the electrolyzer's performance and incorporating it into the grid dispatch strategy, the study demonstrates how to enhance grid flexibility, reduce costs, and increase renewable energy utilization. The findings are particularly relevant for regions with high renewable energy penetration and offer practical insights for grid operators and policymakers aiming to achieve sustainable energy systems.
DOI: 10.1007/s11708-025-0976-6