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| Home > Online First > Cooling Water Requirements for Electrolysis: Assessing Water Consumption under Local Climate and Operating Conditions |
| Home > Online First > Cooling Water Requirements for Electrolysis: Assessing Water Consumption under Local Climate and Operating Conditions |
| Abstract | FZJ-2025-04551 |
2025
Abstract: The stoichiometric water consumption for hydrogen production by electrolysis is relatively modest. However, a significant portion of the total water usage is driven by the cooling requirements of the electrolysis process. While the stoichiometric water demand is fixed by the electrochemical reaction, water requirements for cooling electrolysis varies widely depending on local meteorological and operating parameters. Despite its increasing prominence in sustainable hydrogen production, the significant variability in cooling water requirements for electrolysis across different climates and regions has not been adequately quantified. This work aims to address this gap by introducing a thermodynamic model tailored to three distinct cooling technologies: once-through cooling, wet cooling, and air-fin cooling. Results are contextualized by incorporating energy requirements and cost analyses, enabling comprehensive recommendations for sustainable water management. The results indicate that once-through cooling systems, while consuming more water overall, may be more suitable in certain regions due to their lower energy demand and reduced operational costs. This highlights the need for region-specific strategies that balance water availability, energy efficiency, and economic feasibility in the selection of cooling technologies. By addressing the cooling demands of electrolysis in diverse environmental contexts, this study contributes to the broader discourse on resource-efficient hydrogen production. The insights gained are crucial for shaping policies and practices that ensure both environmental and economic sustainability in the hydrogen economy.
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