Energy loss converting water to hydrogen then back to water

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the energy loss involved in converting water to hydrogen through electrolysis and then back to water using a fuel cell. The efficiency of these processes varies based on the methods employed, with potential efficiencies reaching up to 90%. The economic viability is highlighted by the difference in electricity rates, where using low-cost night electricity can yield a profit when converting hydrogen back to electricity. Participants suggest that building a hydrogen generator and fuel cell system for home use could be a worthwhile investment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrolysis and fuel cell technology
  • Knowledge of energy efficiency metrics
  • Familiarity with electricity pricing structures
  • Basic principles of hydrogen production and storage
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the efficiency rates of different electrolysis methods
  • Explore the economics of hydrogen production versus electricity costs
  • Investigate home hydrogen generator designs and components
  • Learn about fuel cell technology and its applications
USEFUL FOR

Energy enthusiasts, home energy system builders, and individuals interested in renewable energy solutions will benefit from this discussion.

mrwabba
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i was doing a little thinking and have a pretty good idea but to see if it will even come close working i need to know how much energy loss is there converting water to hydrogen then back to water. using Electrolysis to split the water and a fuel cell to rejoin them back together. i know you can't get as much energy back as i put in just need to know the loss. in a percentage would work best.
 
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Welcome to PF, Mrwabba. The efficiency of both processes depends upon how your approach them. There are different ways of doing both.
 
If you used low cost electictiy to make the hydogen and then produced electricity for a higher cost you come out in front where it counts in the wallet.

Where I live night rate electicity is 8c/kWhr and day rate 22c/kWhr. If the efficency of the process was say 90% there is a way to make money. Each kilowatt hour of electricy would reep a nett return of 13c/kWhr.

Is it posiable to build a hydogen generator, storage cylinder and fuel cell relativly cheeply - might be worth building one for home use.
 

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