The objectives of the project are: to assess the seasonal storage efficiency of solar hydrogen to meet about 90% of the energy demand; to design a SAPHYS for unattended operation.

The main deliverables are: SAPHYS detailed design and operating manual; plant modelling software; advanced electrolyser system and electrolyser design report; experimental campaign data report and post test evaluation report.

Production of hydrogen by water electrolysis powered by intermittent renewable sources like photovoltaic, its storage and regeneration of electricity by fuel cells, is a young technology proposed to overcome the storage limitations of renewable sources. A promising application of this kind of plants concerns small stand alone Photovoltaic Power System for remote areas (SAPHYS). In this perspective the goal of this Project is to develop a SAPHYS at ENEA Casaccia Research Centre.
Main equipment of SAPHYS are the PV generator, high pressure advanced electrolyser, the 3 kW Solid Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (SPFC), hydrogen storage, gas treatment section.
On the basis of a detailed test plan, a 12 month experimental campaign will be made, to test performance and reliability of the plant, to validate the plant simulation program and control strategy.