MegaLyseurPlus

• optimization of the complete electrolysis system
• establishment of prerequisites for the development and operation of future large-scale electrolysis systems
• part load capacity and dynamics of the electrolysis system and thus also the essential components
• interface design for infrastructure integration

The particular challenge in electrolysis operation is the area of conflict between highly fluctuating energy input (e.g., in the case of a direct coupling with a wind farm) and the continuous hydrogen demand of a large number of industrial processes, or the integration of such a large-scale electrolysis system into a storage infrastructure for dispatchable energy storage and system-friendly energy supply.

Particularly important are the part load capacity and dynamics of the electrolysis system and thus also the essential components (such as the membrane and power electronics) as well as the interface design for infrastructure integration (e.g., compression or decompression of the hydrogen produced for special applications). However, the nominal overall efficiency and specific costs must be kept in view.

Improved subcomponents and systems solutions are urgently required to be able to complete the sector coupling successfully, integrate renewable energies stably into the national energy system, and boost the decarbonization of the industry. As such, the joint project will optimize the following subcomponents: the CCM (catalyst-coated membrane), the power electronics, and the downstream compression system. Furthermore, a higher-level, safety-related plant control system will also be designed.

Fraunhofer IWES research topics:

• Investigations on membrane-electrode units (microstructure in cooperation with Fraunhofer IMWS)
• Integration of the compression system to the Hydrogen Lab Leuna incl. pilot operation
• Integration in the electrolysis platform Leuna ELP