Advancements in water electrolysis technologies and enhanced storage solutions for green hydrogen using renewable energy sources

Hydrogen plays a vital role in the low-carbon energy transition due to its versatility as a clean energy carrier. However, scaling green hydrogen production using renewable energy presents challenges. This review examines recent advancements in water electrolysis technologies powered by renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, and biomass, focusing on Proton Exchange Membranes (PEMs), Solid Oxide Electrolyzers (SOEs), and emerging Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) technologies. Key findings show that combining offshore wind and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) with electrolyzers boosts hydrogen yields while lowering costs. Geothermal and hydropower provide stable power for continuous production, while biomass gasification and pyrolysis, integrated with carbon capture, offer sustainable hydrogen pathways. To meet the International Energy Agency's goal of reducing hydrogen costs to under $2/kg, scaling up electrolysis, improving energy storage, and expanding infrastructure are crucial. The review also highlights the role of digital technologies, such as smart grids and AI-driven systems, in improving efficiency and enabling decentralized hydrogen production. Strong policy support, infrastructure investments, and ongoing innovation are essential for advancing the hydrogen economy and achieving global decarbonization targets. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd