On economic operation of switchable chlor-alkali electrolysis for demand-side management

We discuss the switchable operation of chlor-alkali electrolysis, which is a novel strategy for demand-side management in the chlorine industry. A bifunctional electrode that can replace uni-functional electrodes allows for adjusting the plant operation to fluctuations in electricity prices by switching between two modes. Such a flexible operation enables improving the plant economics as well as contributing to power grid stabilization. This chapter discusses optimal sizing and operation of switchable chlor-alkali electrolysis determined by mathematical programming. Also, the economic performances of the switching operation are compared to other flexibility options applicable to the chlorine industry.