Advancing the proton exchange membrane water electrolysis: Perspective on the affordable hydrogen production cost

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis demonstrates critical advantages for renewable-integrated hydrogen production, including rapid dynamic response (<1s), high current density (>3 A cm⁻²), and pressurized output (≥350 bar) to reduce compression costs. However, high material costs (Ir-based catalysts, Ti bipolar plates, membranes) and durability challenges under harsh conditions (pH 2–4, 60–90 °C, O₂ saturation) hinder commercialization. Recent advances propose multi-level optimizations: 1) Material innovations (low-iridium catalysts, corrosion-resistant porous transport layers, etc.); 2) Interface engineering to enhance triple-phase boundaries and mitigate catalyst isolation; 3) Component integration (one-piece electrode assembly, artificial intelligence-driven optimized configuration). Techno-economic projections indicate 50–60 % cost reduction through scaled production and efficiency gains, potentially achieving <2.5 USD/kg H₂ by 2030. Through AI-driven configuration parameters of components and system control strategy optimization, the realization of inexpensive hydrogen for fuel cell vehicles can be further accelerated.