SHIELD: Solar Hydrogen Integration for Enhanced Energy Load Dynamics

Project Call: Hydrogen Energy Storage for Solar Power Systems

As part of this project, new systems and algorithms will be researched and developed to store excess energy from Solar Energy Systems (SES) as hydrogen energy during times when production exceeds grid demand. This stored energy will be transferred back to the grid when needed, ensuring that the grid operates smoothly and efficiently without technical issues due to energy imbalances. The cycle of storing and releasing energy will be periodically repeated, requiring an optimized system for planning and management.

We anticipate the project will have three activities. In line with the CET call, these activities need to be fulfilled by partners from three different countries. Turkey-Polar Inc. will be the leading partner, and we are looking for two additional partners to undertake the remaining activities.

Activity 1: Weather Forecasting for SES Production

The first step in the project is predicting over- or under-production of energy from the SES, which requires accurate weather forecasting. As Turkey-POLAR, we will develop an advanced weather prediction algorithm by combining ceilometer cloud data, historical datasets, and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) models. This will allow us to forecast the energy output from the SES, enabling the system to manage surplus energy storage or release stored energy during low production periods.

As part of this, Turkey-Polar will set up meteorological sensors, forecasting tools, and servers. In addition, a 1kW photovoltaic system and 1kW hydrogen energy system (including a pure water production device, electrolyzer, and fuel cell) will be established in Turkey.

Activity 2: Development of a Digital Twin System

We expect Partner 2 to develop a digital twin of the entire system. This digital twin will be used for simulating, optimizing, and managing the energy flows and operations of the SES and hydrogen storage system.

Activity 3: Energy Management System and Algorithms

The third activity involves researching and developing the software and algorithms for the Energy Management System (EMS) that will govern the entire process. Partner 3 is expected to contribute by either supporting or directly setting up the 1kW hydrogen energy system in Turkey. Additionally, they will focus on R&D to optimize the timing for hydrogen storage and release based on energy forecasts provided by Turkey-POLAR. This includes developing the software and algorithms required for the EMS.

Open for Collaborations and Suggestions

We are also open to any R&D or innovative ideas and proposals that you may have related to the project. We are happy to discuss these in an email exchange or via an online meeting. Moreover, we are open to recommendations for partners, as long as they are from a different country than the one managing the specific activity in question.

We look forward to your collaboration and ideas!