Proton-exchange membrane (PEM)-based electrolysis is at the leading edge of a global energy system transformation. The energy vision of the future incorporates abundant renewable energy which is transformed into hydrogen for use in applications such as mobile refueling, power to gas, and grid-level energy storage. To meet these new market megatrends, PEM-based electrolyzer manufacturers are scaling-up their electrolyzer stack and system sizes with increased power capabilities (Figure 1).

This talk will focus on recent advancements in PEM-based stack technology, validation of subscale stacks and systems, and the eventual scale-up to Megawatt-scale hydrogen production; providing insight into PEM-based electrolyzer stack product development and scale-up strategies.

Giner, Inc. is a leading developer of PEM technologies and has extensive experience in the design and development of PEM-based electrolyzers, fuel cells and related electrochemical devices. Giner has continued the development of PEM-based electrolysis in the U.S., making significant advancements in stack efficiency, differential pressure operation, cost reduction, and scale-up. Our technology ranges from highly-reliable sub-scale electrolyzer stacks operating at a differential pressure of 5,000 psig to low-cost Megawatt electrolyzer stacks and systems operating at pressures of up to 600 psig for commercial applications.

The presentation will describe the efforts and requirements involved in testing, development, validation, and cost reduction, and will identify several areas of interest that have been implemented to further advanced PEM-based stack technology, including the development of innovative stack designs capable of high current density, and the scale-up of the electrolyzer stack to large active areas for Megawatt-scale hydrogen production.

Acknowledgements: The Author gratefully acknowledges financial support from the Department of Energy for the work described in this presentation.