Prospects of solar hydrogen production in the Adrar region

The region of Adrar, is one of the most remote and the most deprived regions in Algeria. The development of this region requires the exploitation of its natural resources more particularly of its solar and wind energy resources. However, the exploitation in an effective and viable way of these huge natural resources requires the conversion of these sources of energy into an energy vector that is versatile in its use, storable, transportable and ecologically acceptable. Solar hydrogen seems to be the best candidate today.In the present work, the meteorological and radiometric data of the region are examined. A system of PV–electrolyzer system of solar hydrogen production is proposed. An estimate of the solar hydrogen potential and its production cost are carried out. Finally, the results are discussed.

► Adrar is a remote and deprived region with no conventional energy resources.
► It is though blessed with important water, wind and solar energy resources.
► Its mostly inhabited land is ideal for large scale energy production installations.
► The study shows that solar hydrogen production is important and economically viable.
► This activity could spearhead the sustainable development of the region.