Work

Optimized Scheduling for CO 2 Electrolyzers Coupled with Solar Generation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Electrochemical CO₂ reduction can store renewable energy long-term in chemical feedstocks and fuels. Most experiments and techno-economic assessments on CO₂R simulate continuous operation for most of the year, assuming an ideal renewable source that provides constant, low-cost, and emissions-free electricity. In this work, we assess the impact of realistic solar intermittency on the economic feasibility and operating schedule of CO₂ reduction to carbon monoxide. We examine the techno-economics of a CO₂ electrolyzer coupled to a solar and storage system under a range of interconnection configurations, pricing agreements, and process assumptions. We highlight that the optimal scheduling and profitability of CO₂R is strongly dependent on the ramping capability of the electrolyzer, the system sizing, and the emissions associated with grid electricity or CO₂R products. These results demonstrate a need for CO₂ electrolyzers tested under dynamic operation, especially for use in electric grids with high greenhouse gas intensity.

Source: ACS Energy Letters

DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.6c00146

Authors: Shashwati C. da Cunha, Joaquin Resasco

Institution: The University of Texas at Austin

Language: English

Topic: Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems

Subfield: Energy Engineering and Power Technology

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: green

Funders: Welch Foundation, Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems