This research project explores the role of green hydrogen as a seasonal storage solution in multi-energy systems with high shares of renewables. The project aims to model a simplified energy system that includes solar PV, electrolyzers, hydrogen storage, and fuel cells, along with conventional battery storage and heat pumps. The optimization model will determine the optimal sizing and operation of the hydrogen components to balance energy supply and demand over a representative period (e.g., monthly or seasonal simulation), while minimizing system costs and carbon emissions. The study will address the question: When is hydrogen storage cost-effective in small-scale multi-energy systems? The answer will provide valuable insight for the integration of hydrogen in future energy communities or off-grid microgrids.
Objectives:
Model a simplified energy system with: PV generation Electrolyzer + hydrogen storage + fuel cell Battery and heat pump
- Optimize technology capacities and operations to minimize cost/emissions
- Compare scenarios: with vs without hydrogen storage
- Identify thresholds for hydrogen viability (e.g., PV oversupply, storage duration)
Expected Deliverables:
A techno-economic optimization model (MILP or LP)
Scenario comparison (e.g., short-term vs long-term storage)
Summary report (10–15 pages) with visualizations of energy flows and system performance
Conduct a basic sensitivity analysis on electrolyzer efficiency or H₂ prices
Ideal for Students Interested In:
Hydrogen systems and energy storage
Renewable integration and decarbonization strategies
Energy modeling, optimization, and techno-economic assessment
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