Design and Operation of Photovoltaic-Driven Electrocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production

With the rapid development of photovoltaic (PV) technologies, the storage and transportation of the electricity generated by photovoltaics have received increasing attention. Advanced technologies that integrate photovoltaic energy conversion and storage are important for handling the regional and intermittent features of solar energy, thereby enabling its efficient utilization. Recently, photovoltaic-driven electrocatalytic water splitting (PV–EC) for hydrogen production has been considered one of the most promising technologies. A deep understanding of both photovoltaic systems and electrocatalytic water splitting systems is essential for designing and evaluating a highly efficient photovoltaic-driven electrocatalysis (PV–EC) system. This review aims to provide key knowledge and guidance on PV–EC systems. It begins by introducing the characteristics of various photovoltaic technologies, which would offer guidance on selecting the most suitable PV system for matching with the electrolysis process. It then analyzes the principles, advantages, and drawbacks of various PV–EC configurations, along with strategies for effectively coupling PV and EC units. This would provide guidance on regulating operating conditions in PV–EC systems. Finally, it discusses the challenges that hinders high solar-to-hydrogen efficiency and suggests future research directions to enhance practical applications.