Techno-Economic Analysis and Optimization of Energy Management for Green Hydrogen Production Plants

Abstract

Green hydrogen is essential for mitigating climate change and addressing energy sector challenges. However, producing hydrogen through water electrolysis integrated with renewable energy sources presents significant challenges, particularly in identifying suitable system configurations and developing optimal energy management systems to minimize production costs. Additionally, economic uncertainties further complicate the integration process.

This thesis aims to tackle these challenges through a threefold approach: (1) providing a comprehensive techno-economic review of green hydrogen production plants, (2) conducting an in-depth analysis of various electrolyzer technologies, and (3) developing an optimal energy management system for hydrogen production plants combined with water desalination plants at sites having seawater.

First, a comprehensive system-level techno-economic review of hydrogen production plants is conducted. This review aims at evaluating, assessing, and comparing the components of hydrogen production plants. Based on the conducted review, a holistic assessment of 90 potential system configurations is performed across three key performance indicators: levelized cost of hydrogen, technological maturity, and systemic efficiency.

Second, a detailed economic analysis of the different types of electrolyzer technologies is carried out. The methodology includes economic analysis, sensitivity analysis, and risk analysis, considering several aspects such as capital costs, operation costs, degradation rates, efficiency, and maintenance costs. The study finds that alkaline electrolyzers offer the best economic viability, with the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen and highest net present value. The results also show that Proton Exchange Membrane electrolyzers are highly adaptable to renewable energy integration due to their rapid dynamic response, while Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cells exhibit the highest efficiency and lowest energy consumption but pose higher economic risks. Sensitivity analysis reveal that electricity cost and selling price are the most critical factors affecting the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen and highest net present value. Risk analyses using Monte Carlo Simulation provide insights into the economic uncertainties associated with each technology.

Finally, an optimal energy management system for a grid-connected hydrogen production plant coupled with a seawater desalination facility is presented. The model integrates the operation of both plants, emphasizing the influence of electricity tariff fluctuations. The results show that integrating hydrogen production with Seawater Reverse Osmosis desalination ensures sustainable water use with minimal additional energy consumption.

Date of Award	20 Jul 2024
Original language	American English
Supervisor	EHAB El Sadaany (Supervisor)