Solar water splitting by photovoltaic-electrolysis with a solar-to-hydrogen efficiency over 30%

Jieyang Jia, Linsey C. Seitz, Jesse D. Benck, Yijie Huo, Yusi Chen, Jia Wei Desmond Ng, Taner Bilir, James S. Harris () and Thomas F. Jaramillo ()
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Jieyang Jia: Stanford University
Linsey C. Seitz: Stanford University
Jesse D. Benck: Stanford University
Yijie Huo: Stanford University
Yusi Chen: Stanford University
Jia Wei Desmond Ng: Stanford University
Taner Bilir: Solar Junction
James S. Harris: Stanford University
Thomas F. Jaramillo: Stanford University

Nature Communications, 2016, vol. 7, issue 1, 1-6

Abstract: Abstract Hydrogen production via electrochemical water splitting is a promising approach for storing solar energy. For this technology to be economically competitive, it is critical to develop water splitting systems with high solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiencies. Here we report a photovoltaic-electrolysis system with the highest STH efficiency for any water splitting technology to date, to the best of our knowledge. Our system consists of two polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysers in series with one InGaP/GaAs/GaInNAsSb triple-junction solar cell, which produces a large-enough voltage to drive both electrolysers with no additional energy input. The solar concentration is adjusted such that the maximum power point of the photovoltaic is well matched to the operating capacity of the electrolysers to optimize the system efficiency. The system achieves a 48-h average STH efficiency of 30%. These results demonstrate the potential of photovoltaic-electrolysis systems for cost-effective solar energy storage.

Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13237

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