A comparative review of lithium-ion battery and regenerative hydrogen fuel cell technologies for integration with photovoltaic applications

Storage of "green electricity" is identified as one of the most important research problems in energy system applications. Practical and effective energy storage can help increase the contribution of renewable energy to the global energy mix and can also lead to a sustainable energy future. In countries with prolonged summer-like conditions, solar Photovoltaic (PV) technology is the leading type of renewable energy for power generation. This review study attempts to critically compare Lithium-Ion Battery (LIB) and Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell (RHFC) technologies for integration with PV-based systems. Initially a review of recent studies on PV-LIB and PV-RHFC energy systems is given, along with all main integration options. Further on, key comparison criteria are analyzed for both LIB and RHFC technologies with emphasis on their PV-integrated capabilities and implications. These criteria are the following: operating characteristics (energy and power, time-related parameters, efficiency, and capac-ity); lifetime and cost factors; recyclability and sustainability factors; safety issues; range of applications; and integration to the total energy system. Finally, the status and future outlook of LIB and RHFC technologies for integration to PV-based energy systems are discussed in an effort to provide insight for future research and development directions.(c) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.