Analysis of photon-driven solar-to-hydrogen production methods in the Netherlands

Hydrogen is deemed necessary for the realization of a sustainable society, especially when renewable energy used to generate hydrogen. As most photon-driven hydrogen production methods are not commercially available yet, this study has investigated techno-economic and overall performance four different solar-to-hydrogen photovoltaics-based electrolysis in Netherlands. It was found that cheapest option with cost 9.31 $/kgH2. Production based on photo-catalytic water splitting, direct bio-photolysis, photoelectrochemical splitting be 18.32 $/kgH2, 18.45 18.98 respectively. These costs expected drop significantly future. Direct bio-photolysis (potential 3.10 $/kgH2) (3.12 may become cheaper than electrolysis. Based preferences three fictional technology investors, i.e. short-term, green visionary investor, these determined. Photovoltaics-based ideal option, complementary option. While an advantage short-term because it non-integrated system, long-term might lead relatively higher limitations. Photochemical integrated systems have they need low theoretical overpotential benefit from increasing temperatures. Both show improvements by use quantum dots. Bio-photolysis can self-sustaining wastewater produce but sudden temperature changes could decrease.