Modularisation of integrated photovoltaic-fuel cell system for remote distributed power systems

In the last decade, studies on how integrated photovoltaic-fuel cell (IPVFC) system can be used for grid-connected and distributed applications have intensified because the system has a huge potential application in the emerging hydrogen economy. Model-based and experimental works show that the system has potential applications for supplying reliable electricity based on solar hydrogen. However, no study has looked at the manufacturability of the system. In this study, modularisation of the system is presented as a strategy to facili-tate the ultimate commercialisation of the system. Hydrogen management in the system is the most critical factor for utilizing the system for remote distributed power system. Discussions on the interconnections be-tween modularity in design, manufacturability and supply chain integration were made as well.