We are thrilled to announce that Ecosense has successfully installed a state-of-the-art Green Hydrogen Lab at Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), Mumbai. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant step forward in advancing hydrogen-based energy systems in India. With its sophisticated integration of renewable and energy storage sources, the lab is poised to drive innovation and research in clean energy technologies.
Innovative Features of the Green Hydrogen Lab
The Green Hydrogen Lab at VJTI features a highly advanced grid-connected microgrid system. This microgrid seamlessly integrates multiple renewable energy sources and energy storage systems, enabling efficient and sustainable energy management.
A. Key Sources in the Microgrid:
1. Wind Turbine Emulator: Wind turbine emulator mimics the behaviour of wind turbine for hardware level simulations. This system has a DC motor coupled with the Induction generator/Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator, speed of which is controlled as per the speed reference calculated by solving the mathematical model of wind turbine. An induction generator is coupled to the DC motor and bidirectional inverter is connected to the terminals of the generator. Researcher can execute the mathematical models of their newly developed or modified wind turbine and can simulate the speed/power of profile of turbine on hardware environment directly for different wind speeds & pitch angle.
2. PV Emulator: PV Emulator is a programmable power supply designed to mimic the characteristics of Solar Panels. With fast transient response, the emulator responds to change in load conditions and maintains the output on IV characteristics of the panels defined by user for a given ambient condition.
It is a flexible instrument designed to emulate the output of solar panels, with adjustable parameters such as Voc, Isc, shading, coefficient of temperature etc. The PV Emulator uses an internal algorithm to adjust Voc (Open circuit voltage) and Isc (short-circuit current) so as to match the solar panel selected by the user based on user defined parameters such as Irradiation, temperature, Voc, Isc, temperature coefficient etc. The Emulator makes sure the response matches that of the actual panel under all the load conditions within range. The user is presented with a complete set of information with tables and plots on user application.
The software of PV Emulator is based on Labview. User is able to see the response of Solar PV Panel as per his/her own set of users defined parameters. User defined parameters involve open circuit voltage, short circuit current, temperature coefficient, complete shading, partial shading (up to 4 peaks), series resistance, area of panel, diode quality factor and operating temperature.
3. Fuel Cell: Fuel Cell unit receives dry hydrogen from the Hydrogen gas cylinder at pre-set LPM. The generated power can be used directly by a DC load but as per the V-I curve of Fuel cell system, the voltage reduces as we increase the load, therefore, the power generated by fuel cell system cannot be used directly hence the output is connected to a charge controller which charges the battery and maintain output as per the battery voltage. The battery bank is further connected to a home inverter so that home utilities can be used as a load for the fuel cell system.
4. Battery Bank: Functions as both a source and a load, providing energy storage and balancing capabilities.
B. Electrolyzer Integration
At the heart of the lab’s hydrogen production system is an AEM Electrolyzer, integrated at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) within the microgrid. For more information on AEM Electrolyzers, read: SOEC vs. AEM vs. PEM Electrolyzers.
Key features of the electrolyzer system include:
✓ Distilled Water Supply: Delivered via a specialized high-pressure, low-volume pump to ensure optimal hydrogen production.
✓ Hydrogen Storage: The produced hydrogen is dried using a hydrogen dryer, then safely stored in high-pressure hydrogen cylinders.
C. Hydrogen Utilization
The stored hydrogen serves as a vital resource for powering the microgrid. It is supplied to the fuel cell, where it is converted into clean electricity, completing the hydrogen energy cycle.
D. Comprehensive Safety Measures
Ensuring safety is paramount in a facility dealing with hydrogen. The lab is equipped with advanced safety protocols to guarantee secure operations at all times:
D.1 Relay Systems:
Each source and load within the microgrid is connected through relays, allowing for immediate shutdown of all equipment in the event of a hydrogen leakage.
D.2 Hydrogen Leak Detectors:
The lab features three strategically placed hydrogen leak detectors. In case of leakage detection, the following measures are automatically executed:
✓ Solenoid Valve Shutdown: Hydrogen supply to the fuel cell is stopped by shutting off the solenoid valves at the manifold.
✓ Electrolyzer Safety: The flow of hydrogen from the electrolyzer to the storage cylinders is halted.
These rigorous safety measures create a secure environment for researchers and students, fostering innovation while ensuring their well-being.
Green Hydrogen Lab Installation at VJTI, Mumbai
Demonstration of Equipment Conducted
To ensure smooth operation of these systems Ecosense’s personnel conducted a detailed 4 day demonstration and training of the equipment.
Advancing Clean Energy Research in India
The Green Hydrogen Lab at VJTI stands as a testament to Ecosense’s commitment to sustainability and technological advancement. By equipping one of India’s premier technical institutes with cutting-edge infrastructure, we aim to empower the next generation of researchers and engineers to explore and innovate in the field of hydrogen energy.
This installation is not just a milestone for Ecosense but also a significant leap towards a greener and more sustainable future for India. The lab will serve as a hub for research, learning, and the development of practical solutions to real-world energy challenges.
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Ecosense is dedicated to driving change through innovation and collaboration. Stay tuned for more updates on our recent projects and initiatives as we continue to lead the charge in renewable energy technologies.
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