Clean energy applications widely recognize Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) for their high efficiency and environmental compatibility. Accurate parameter identification of PEMFC models is essential for enhancing system performance and reliability, particularly under dynamic operating conditions. This paper presents a novel optimization-based approach called Heterogeneous Comprehensive Learning-Bald Eagle Search (HCLBES) with enhanced exploration and exploitation capabilities for the effective modeling of PEMFC. The algorithm combines the exploration strength of the Bald Eagle Search with comprehensive learning and heterogeneity mechanisms to achieve a balanced global and local search space. In this algorithm, the number of agents is divided into two subagents. Each subagent is assigned to focus solely on either exploration or exploitation. The comprehensive learning strategy generates exemplars for both subgroups. In the exploration sub-agent, exemplars are generated using the personal best experiences of agents within that same exploration space. The exploitation subagent generates the exemplars using the personal best experiences of all agents. This separation preserves exploration diversity even if exploitation converges prematurely. The algorithm is applied to optimize parameters of the 250 W and 500 W PEMFC models under varying conditions. Simulation results demonstrate the outperformance of the HCLBES algorithm in terms of convergence speed, estimation accuracy, and robustness compared to recent optimization algorithms. The effectiveness of HCLBES was also verified through statistical metrics and different commercial PEMFC models, including BCS 500 W stacks, Horizon 500, and NedStack PS6. Experimental validation confirms that the proposed algorithm effectively captures the nonlinear behaviours of PEMFCs under dynamic operating conditions. This research aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting clean and affordable energy (SDG 7) through the enhanced efficiency and reliability of PEMFCs, thereby supporting sustainable industrialization and innovation (SDG 9).
