Wind Micro-Turbines for Domestic Hydrogen Production?

Abstract

A primary concern with some renewable energy sources is the intermittent nature of the supply and a consequent need for significant backup generation or storage capacity. Much has been made of the apparent correlation between the availability of wind energy and consumer demand, with the belief this type of renewable resource can be supplemented with only a moderate reserve of hydrogen generated at times of generation surplus. The assumption is tested through a case study that considers the backup storage needs for domestic applications in the Western Isles of Scotland, one of the windiest places in Europe. The results reflect the likely importance of storage when renewable energy generation levels reaches a significant portion of the national needs, and the degree of consideration that should be given to energy backup at this very early phase in the likely transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.