Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy AS has filed a patent for a pioneering wind turbine that includes an integrated hydrogen production system.
The patented design revolves around a wind turbine comprising a nacelle positioned on a wind turbine tower. This nacelle is equipped with an electrical power generation system, which is a conventional feature of modern wind turbines. Additionally, the nacelle housing encases at least part of this electrical power generation system, maintaining its operation and protection from environmental factors.
A unique aspect of this patent is the inclusion of a hydrogen production system. Central to this is a hydrogen production unit that functions with an electrolyzer. This electrolyzer is specially configured to receive electrical power directly from the turbine’s power generation system. The clever configuration allows for efficient use of generated energy to produce hydrogen, an increasingly important clean fuel source.
The patent specifies that the hydrogen production unit is mounted atop the nacelle, distinctively outside the nacelle housing. This strategic positioning allows for effective space utilization and operational efficiency, ensuring that the electrolyzer remains separate from the electrical power generation system it relies upon.
