Chapter 1. Introduction to Electrolysis, Electrolysers and Hydrogen Production

Abstract

This chapter provides a broad introduction to electrolysis and the use of electrolysers, using electricity via various routes to produce hydrogen. Increased hydrogen supplies using cleaner methods are seen as essential for potential hydrogen-based power for transportation and renewable energy conversion into fuel. Issues related to the use of hydrogen as an energy vector are discussed, including its generation and storage and distribution. A brief treatment of electrolysis cells for hydrogen production is included and put into context with other methods, both old, new and under development. This includes methods that use renewable energy, solar energy via photo-electrochemical cells and thermal, gasification and biological processes.