Photovoltaic Electrolysis Unit

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This invention describes a photovoltaic electrolysis unit that integrates solar photovoltaic modules directly with electrolyzer cells in a single, compact structure. The system is designed to generate hydrogen and oxygen by using solar energy to split water (or reduce CO2), enhancing efficiency by eliminating extensive wiring, minimizing electrical (ohmic) losses, and optimizing the interface between photovoltaic and electrolysis components. The design also features overlapping, liquid-permeable electrodes and specialized seals to improve gas separation and system scalability.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• On-site hydrogen production for fueling stations or industrial use using only sunlight and water.
• Integration into renewable energy-based microgrids for chemical energy storage (through hydrogen).
• Direct, emission-free production of hydrogen for power-to-gas applications in renewable energy systems.
• Portable or distributed hydrogen generation units for remote or off-grid locations.
• CO2 reduction systems to produce hydrocarbons or other fuels using solar energy.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Substantial reduction of electrical losses, leading to higher overall efficiency than separate or conventionally linked PV-electrolyzer systems.
• Elimination or minimization of costly and complex electrical wiring/electronics.
• Scalable and modular architecture allows for easy expansion or adaptation to varying installation sizes.
• Compact design with reduced material usage and lower manufacturing complexity.
• Enables direct conversion of solar energy to storable and transportable chemical fuels (hydrogen), helping stability and sustainability in renewable energy supply chains.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a photovoltaic electrolysis unit (PE unit) comprising two integrated photovoltaic electrolysis modules (PV-EC module) and a housing with four openings. One PV-EC module includes an electrolyzer cell comprising an electrolyte, a separator and a first and second flat, liquid-permeable electrode for different polarity. The electrodes accordingly comprise a first and second catalyst material, and are mutually spaced apart next to each other in a first direction. The PV-EC module further includes a photovoltaic module, which comprises a light-permeable substrate and a solar cell, with one negative pole and one positive pole. One negative pole is connected to the first electrode via a first electrical contact region and one positive pole is connected to the second electrode via a second electrical contact region. The electrodes and the solar cells are interconnected in series. The PV-EC module further includes a seal, which comprises electrically conductive contact regions for connecting the electrodes to poles of the one solar cell and an insulator region. The PV-EC modules are arranged in the PE unit in such a way that the polarity of the electrodes of adjacent modules alternates in the first direction and, in sections, the electrodes are configured in such a way that electrodes arranged directly adjacent to one another in the first direction are in contact with one another via a positive-locking fit and partially overlap. Together with the insulator regions and the housing, the separators form chambers for gas production. Contact pressure can be exerted on the overlapping regions of the electrodes by means of the housing.