Comparison of hydrogen production by parabolic trough and photovoltaic solar energy systems

In recent years, the rapid depletion of fossil fuels has accelerated the search for alternative energy sources worldwide. At the forefront of these alternative energy sources is the sun, our greatest source of energy. Subsequently, hydrogen gas found within "water," the lifeblood of our planet, has begun to be seen as a significant research focus and subject of exploration. This thesis explores a journey from the sun to hydrogen. It compares the hydrogen production of two solar energy utilization methods: photovoltaic (PV) and parabolic trough collector (PTC) systems. Both systems generate electricity, which is then used to electrolyze water, resulting in hydrogen production. Theoretical design parameters of both systems are compared under Gaziantep province conditions. The usable amount of hydrogen produced by electrolyzing water with electricity generated from monocrystalline PV cells in a PV system, assumed to be installed in the same area (8174 m2), is compared with the amount produced by electrolyzing water using electricity generated by an Organic Rankine Cycle in a parabolic trough collector system. Data for PV system analysis were generated using the PVsyst program, while analysis for the parabolic trough collector system was conducted using Ebsilon® Professional software. In this period emphasizing the importance of hydrogen for future generations' energy needs, this thesis aims to provide insight into which solar energy methods can lead to more efficient hydrogen production. Alongside, detailed introductions and comparative results of PV and PTC systems are presented, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of both systems. Furthermore, a cost comparison of the systems reveals that the PV system is more cost-effective by 25.45%.