Egypt
Optimized EMS and a Comparative Study of Hybrid Hydrogen Fuel Cell/Battery Vehicles
Jan 2022
Publication
This paper presents a new Fuel Cell Fuel Consumption Minimization Strategy (FCFCMS) for Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) powered by a fuel cell and an energy storage system in order to minimize as much as possible the consumption of hydrogen while maintaining the State Of Charge (SOC) of the battery. Compared to existing Energy Management Strategies (EMSs) (such as the well-known State Machine Strategy (SMC) Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) Frequency Decoupling and FLC (FDFLC) and the Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy (ECMS)) the proposed strategy increases the overall vehicle energy efficiency and therefore minimizes the total hydrogen consumption while respecting the constraints of each energy and power element. A model of a hybrid vehicle has been built using the TruckMaker/MATLAB software. Using the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS) which includes several stops and accelerations the performance of the proposed strategy has been compared with these different approaches (SMC FLC FDFLC and ECMS) through several simulations.
A Critical Review of Renewable Hydrogen Production Methods: Factors Affecting Their Scale-Up and Its Role in Future Energy Generation
Feb 2022
Publication
An increase in human activities and population growth have significantly increased the world’s energy demands. The major source of energy for the world today is from fossil fuels which are polluting and degrading the environment due to the emission of greenhouse gases. Hydrogen is an identified efficient energy carrier and can be obtained through renewable and non-renewable sources. An overview of renewable sources of hydrogen production which focuses on water splitting (electrolysis thermolysis and photolysis) and biomass (biological and thermochemical) mechanisms is presented in this study. The limitations associated with these mechanisms are discussed. The study also looks at some critical factors that hinders the scaling up of the hydrogen economy globally. Key among these factors are issues relating to the absence of a value chain for clean hydrogen storage and transportation of hydrogen high cost of production lack of international standards and risks in investment. The study ends with some future research recommendations for researchers to help enhance the technical efficiencies of some production mechanisms and policy direction to governments to reduce investment risks in the sector to scale the hydrogen economy up.
TM-doped Mg12O12 Nano-cages for Hydrogen Storage Applications: Theoretical Study
Feb 2022
Publication
DFT calculations at B3LYP/6-31g(dp) with the D3 version of Grimme’s dispersion are performed to investigate the application of TM-encapsulated Mg12O12 nano-cages (TM= Mn Fe and Co) as a hydrogen storage material. The molecular dynamic (MD) calculations are utilized to examine the stability of the considered structures. TD-DFT method reveals that the TM-encapsulation converts the Mg12O12 from an ultraviolet into a visible optical active material. The adsorption energy values indicate that the Mn and Fe atoms encapsulation enhances the adsorption of H2 molecules on the Mg12O12 nano-cage. The pristine Mg12O12 and CoMg12O12 do not meet the requirements for hydrogen storage materials while the MnMg12O12 and FeMg12O12 obey the requirements. MnMg12O12 and FeMg12O12 can carry up to twelve and nine H2 molecules respectively. The hydrogen adsorption causes a redshift for the λmax value of the UV-Vis. spectra of the MnMg12O12 and FeMg12O12 nano-cages. The thermodynamic calculations show that the hydrogen storage reaction for MnMg12O12 nano-cage is a spontaneous reaction while for FeMg12O12 nano-cage is not spontaneous. The results suggested that the MnMg12O12 nano-cage may be a promising material for hydrogen storage applications.
Water Photo-Electrooxidation Using Mats of TiO2 Nanorods, Surface Sensitized by a Metal–Organic Framework of Nickel and 1,2-Benzene Dicarboxylic Acid
Apr 2021
Publication
Photoanodes comprising a transparent glass substrate coated with a thin conductive film of fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and a thin layer of a photoactive phase have been fabricated and tested with regard to the photo-electro-oxidation of water into molecular oxygen. The photoactive layer was made of a mat of TiO2 nanorods (TDNRs) of micrometric thickness. Individual nanorods were successfully photosensitized with nanoparticles of a metal–organic framework (MOF) of nickel and 12-benzene dicarboxylic acid (BDCA). Detailed microstructural information was obtained from SEM and TEM analysis. The chemical composition of the active layer was determined by XRD XPS and FTIR analysis. Optical properties were determined by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The water photooxidation activity was evaluated by linear sweep voltammetry and the robustness was assessed by chrono-amperometry. The OER (oxygen evolution reaction) photo-activity of these photoelectrodes was found to be directly related to the amount of MOF deposited on the TiO2 nanorods and was therefore maximized by adjusting the MOF content. The microscopic reaction mechanism which controls the photoactivity of these photoelectrodes was analyzed by photo-electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Microscopic rate parameters are reported. These results contribute to the development and characterization of MOF-sensitized OER photoanodes.
A Smart Strategy for Sizing of Hybrid Renewable Energy System to Supply Remote Loads in Saudi Arabia
Oct 2021
Publication
The use of hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) has become the best option for supplying electricity to sites remote from the central power system because of its sustainability environmental friendliness and its low cost of energy compared to many conventional sources such as diesel generators. Due to the intermittent nature of renewable energy resources there is a need however for an energy storage system (ESS) to store the surplus energy and feed the energy deficit. Most renewable sources used battery storage systems (BSS) a green hydrogen storage system (GHSS) and a diesel generator as a backup for these sources. Batteries are very expensive and have a very short lifetime and GHSS have a very expensive initial cost and many security issues. In this paper a system consisting of wind turbines and a photovoltaic (PV) array with a pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) system as the main energy storage to replace the expensive and short lifetime batteries is proposed. The proposed system is built to feed a remote area called Dumah Aljandal in the north of Saudi Arabia. A smart grid is used via a novel demand response strategy (DRS) with a dynamic tariff to reduce the size of the components and it reduces the cost of energy compared to a flat tariff. The use of the PHES with smart DRS reduced the cost of energy by 34.2% and 41.1% compared to the use of BSS and GHSS as an ESS respectively. Moreover the use of 100% green energy sources will avoid the emission of an estimated 2.5 million tons of greenhouse gases every year. The proposed system will use a novel optimization algorithm called the gradually reduced particles of particle swarm optimization (GRP-PSO) algorithm to enhance the exploration and exploitation during the searching iterations. The GRP-PSO reduces the convergence time to 58% compared to the average convergence time of 10 optimization algorithms used for comparison. A sensitivity analysis study is introduced in this paper in which the effect of ±20% change in wind speed and solar irradiance are selected and the system showed a low effect of these resources on the Levelized cost of energy of the HRES. These outstanding results proved the superiority of using a pumped-storage system with a dynamic tariff demand response strategy compared to the other energy storage systems with flat-rate tariffs.
Climate Action: Prospects of Green Hydrogen in Africa
Feb 2022
Publication
Africa is rich with an abundance of renewable energy sources that can help meeting the continent’s demand for electricity to promote economic growth and meet global targets for CO2 reduction. Green Hydrogen is considered one of the most promising technologies for energy generation transportation and storage. In this paper the prospects of green hydrogen production potential in Africa are investigated along with its usage for future implementation. Moreover an overview of the benefits of shifting to green Hydrogen technology is presented. The current African infrastructure and policies are tested against future targets and goals. Furthermore the study embraces a detailed theoretical environmental technological and economic assessment putting the local energy demands into consideration.
Converting Sewage Water into H2 Fuel Gas Using Cu/CuO Nanoporous Photocatalytic Electrodes
Feb 2022
Publication
This work reports on H2 fuel generation from sewage water using Cu/CuO nanoporous (NP) electrodes. This is a novel concept for converting contaminated water into H2 fuel. The preparation of Cu/CuO NP was achieved using a simple thermal combustion process of Cu metallic foil at 550 ◦C for 1 h. The Cu/CuO surface consists of island-like structures with an inter-distance of 100 nm. Each island has a highly porous surface with a pore diameter of about 250 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of monoclinic Cu/CuO NP material with a crystallite size of 89 nm. The prepared Cu/CuO photoelectrode was applied for H2 generation from sewage water achieving an incident to photon conversion efficiency (IPCE) of 14.6%. Further the effects of light intensity and wavelength on the photoelectrode performance were assessed. The current density (Jph) value increased from 2.17 to 4.7 mA·cm−2 upon raising the light power density from 50 to 100 mW·cm−2 . Moreover the enthalpy (∆H*) and entropy (∆S*) values of Cu/CuO electrode were determined as 9.519 KJ mol−1 and 180.4 JK−1 ·mol−1 respectively. The results obtained in the present study are very promising for solving the problem of energy in far regions by converting sewage water to H2 fuel.
Solar Energy: Applications, Trends Analysis, Bibliometric Analysis and Research Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Jan 2023
Publication
Over the past decade energy demand has witnessed a drastic increase mainly due to huge development in the industry sector and growing populations. This has led to the global utilization of renewable energy resources and technologies to meet this high demand as fossil fuels are bound to end and are causing harm to the environment. Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems are a renewable energy technology that allows the utilization of solar energy directly from the sun to meet electricity demands. Solar PV has the potential to create a reliable clean and stable energy systems for the future. This paper discusses the different types and generations of solar PV technologies available as well as several important applications of solar PV systems which are “Large-Scale Solar PV” “Residential Solar PV” “Green Hydrogen” “Water Desalination” and “Transportation”. This paper also provides research on the number of solar papers and their applications that relate to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the years between 2011 and 2021. A total of 126513 papers were analyzed. The results show that 72% of these papers are within SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. This shows that there is a lack of research in solar energy regarding the SDGs especially SDG 1: No Poverty SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 5: Gender Equality SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 10: Reduced Inequality and SDG 16: Peace Justice and Strong Institutions. More research is needed in these fields to create a sustainable world with solar PV technologies.
A Comparison between Fuel Cells and Other Alternatives for Marine Electric Power Generation
Mar 2016
Publication
The world is facing a challenge in meeting its needs for energy. Global energy consumption in the last half-century has increased very rapidly and is expected to continue to grow over the next 50 years. However it is expected to see significant differences between the last 50 years and the next. This paper aims at introducing a good solution to replace or work with conventional marine power plants. This includes the use of fuel cell power plant operated with hydrogen produced through water electrolysis or hydrogen produced from natural gas gasoline or diesel fuels through steam reforming processes to mitigate air pollution from ships.
Synthesis and Characterization of Biogenic Iron Oxides of Different Nanomorphologies from Pomegranate Peels for Efficient Solar Hydrogen Production
Feb 2020
Publication
An eco-friendly green synthesis of mesoporous iron oxide (hematite) using pomegranate peels through a low-cost and massive product method was investigated. The mass of pomegranate peels was varied to control the morphology of the produced hematite (Fe2O3). The structures textures and optical properties of the products were investigated by FTIR XRD FE-SEM and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Three different Fe2O3 morphologies were obtained; Fe2O3(I) nanorod like shape Fe2O3(II) nanoparticles and Fe2O3(III) nanoporous structured layer. The bandgap values for Fe2O3 (I) (II) and (III) were 2.71 2.95 and 2.29 eV respectively. The newly hematite samples were used as promising photoelectrodes supported on graphite substrate for the photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting toward the efficient production of solar hydrogen. The number of generated hydrogen moles was calculated per active area to be 50 molh−1 cm−2 for electrode III which decreased to 15.3molh−1 cm−2 for electrode II. The effects of temperature (30–70 ◦C) on the PEC behavior of the three electrodes were addressed. Different thermodynamic parameters were calculated for the three electrodes which showed activation energies of 13.4 16.8 and 15.2 kJmol−1 respectively. The electrode stability was addressed as a function of the number of runs and exposure time in addition to electrochemical impedance study. Finally the conversion efficiency of the incident photon to-current(IPCE) was estimated under the monochromatic illumination. The optimum value was ∼11% @ 390nm for Fe2O3(III) electrode
Optimal Design of Photovoltaic, Biomass, Fuel Cell, Hydrogen Tank Units and Electrolyzer Hybrid System for a Remote Area in Egypt
Jul 2022
Publication
In this paper a new isolated hybrid system is simulated and analyzed to obtain the optimal sizing and meet the electricity demand with cost improvement for servicing a small remote area with a peak load of 420 kW. The major configuration of this hybrid system is Photovoltaic (PV) modules Biomass gasifier (BG) Electrolyzer units Hydrogen Tank units (HT) and Fuel Cell (FC) system. A recent optimization algorithm namely Mayfly Optimization Algorithm (MOA) is utilized to ensure that all load demand is met at the lowest energy cost (EC) and minimize the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the proposed system. The MOA is selected as it collects the main merits of swarm intelligence and evolutionary algorithms; hence it has good convergence characteristics. To ensure the superiority of the selected MOA the obtained results are compared with other well-known optimization algorithms namely Sooty Tern Optimization Algorithm (STOA) Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) and Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA). The results reveal that the suggested MOA achieves the best system design achieving a stable convergence characteristic after 44 iterations. MOA yielded the best EC with 0.2106533 $/kWh the net present cost (NPC) with 6170134 $ the loss of power supply probability (LPSP) with 0.05993% and GHG with 792.534 t/y.
Prospects of Fuel Cell Combined Heat and Power Systems
Aug 2020
Publication
Combined heat and power (CHP) in a single and integrated device is concurrent or synchronized production of many sources of usable power typically electric as well as thermal. Integrating combined heat and power systems in today’s energy market will address energy scarcity global warming as well as energy-saving problems. This review highlights the system design for fuel cell CHP technologies. Key among the components discussed was the type of fuel cell stack capable of generating the maximum performance of the entire system. The type of fuel processor used was also noted to influence the systemic performance coupled with its longevity. Other components equally discussed was the power electronics. The thermal and water management was also noted to have an effect on the overall efficiency of the system. Carbon dioxide emission reduction reduction of electricity cost and grid independence were some notable advantages associated with fueling cell combined heat and power systems. Despite these merits the high initial capital cost is a key factor impeding its commercialization. It is therefore imperative that future research activities are geared towards the development of novel and cheap materials for the development of the fuel cell which will transcend into a total reduction of the entire system. Similarly robust systemic designs should equally be an active research direction. Other types of fuel aside hydrogen should equally be explored. Proper risk assessment strategies and documentation will similarly expand and accelerate the commercialization of this novel technology. Finally public sensitization of the technology will also make its acceptance and possible competition with existing forms of energy generation feasible. The work in summary showed that proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEM fuel cell) operated at a lower temperature-oriented cogeneration has good efficiency and is very reliable. The critical issue pertaining to these systems has to do with the complication associated with water treatment. This implies that the balance of the plant would be significantly affected; likewise the purity of the gas is crucial in the performance of the system. An alternative to these systems is the PEM fuel cell systems operated at higher temperatures.
Multi-Objective Optimization-Based Health-Conscious Predictive Energy Management Strategy for Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Feb 2022
Publication
The Energy Management Strategy (EMS) in Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FCHEVs) is the key part to enhance optimal power distribution. Indeed the most recent works are focusing on optimizing hydrogen consumption without taking into consideration the degradation of embedded energy sources. In order to overcome this lack of knowledge this paper describes a new health-conscious EMS algorithm based on Model Predictive Control (MPC) which aims to minimize the battery degradation to extend its lifetime. In this proposed algorithm the health-conscious EMS is normalized in order to address its multi-objective optimization. Then weighting factors are assigned in the objective function to minimize the selected criteria. Compared to most EMSs based on optimization techniques this proposed approach does not require any information about the speed profile which allows it to be used for real-time control of FCHEV. The achieved simulation results show that the proposed approach reduces the economic cost up to 50% for some speed profile keeping the battery pack in a safe range and significantly reducing energy sources degradation. The proposed health-conscious EMS has been validated experimentally and its online operation ability clearly highlighted on a PEMFC delivery postal vehicle.
Hydrogen Production, Storage, Utilisation and Environmental Impacts: A Review
Oct 2021
Publication
Dihydrogen (H2) commonly named ‘hydrogen’ is increasingly recognised as a clean and reliable energy vector for decarbonisation and defossilisation by various sectors. The global hydrogen demand is projected to increase from 70 million tonnes in 2019 to 120 million tonnes by 2024. Hydrogen development should also meet the seventh goal of ‘affordable and clean energy’ of the United Nations. Here we review hydrogen production and life cycle analysis hydrogen geological storage and hydrogen utilisation. Hydrogen is produced by water electrolysis steam methane reforming methane pyrolysis and coal gasification. We compare the environmental impact of hydrogen production routes by life cycle analysis. Hydrogen is used in power systems transportation hydrocarbon and ammonia production and metallugical industries. Overall combining electrolysis-generated hydrogen with hydrogen storage in underground porous media such as geological reservoirs and salt caverns is well suited for shifting excess of-peak energy to meet dispatchable on-peak demand.
Exergy and Exergoeconomic Analysis for the Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis under Various Operating Conditions and Design Parameters
Nov 2022
Publication
Integrating the exergy and economic analyses of water electrolyzers is the pivotal way to comprehend the interplay of system costs and improve system performance. For this a 3D numerical model based on COMSOL Multiphysics Software (version 5.6 COMSOL Stockholm Sweden) is integrated with the exergy and exergoeconomic analysis to evaluate the exergoeconomic performance of the proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) under different operating conditions (operating temperature cathode pressure current density) and design parameter (membrane thickness). Further the gas crossover phenomenon is investigated to estimate the impact of gas leakage on analysis reliability under various conditions and criteria. The results reveal that increasing the operating temperature or decreasing the membrane thickness improves both the efficiency and cost of hydrogen exergy while increasing the gas leakage through the membrane. Likewise raising the current density and the cathode pressure lowers the hydrogen exergy cost and improves the economic performance. The increase in exergy destroyed and hydrogen exergy cost as well as the decline in second law efficiency due to the gas crossover are more noticeable at higher pressures. As the cathode pressure rises from 1 to 30 bar at a current density of 10000 A/m2 the increase in exergy destroyed and hydrogen exergy cost as well as the decline in second law efficiency are increased by 37.6 kJ/mol 4.49 USD/GJ and 7.1% respectively. The cheapest green electricity source which is achieved using onshore wind energy and hydropower reduces hydrogen production costs and enhances economic efficiency. The growth in the hydrogen exergy cost is by about 4.23 USD/GJ for a 0.01 USD/kWh increase in electricity price at the current density of 20000 A/m2. All findings would be expected to be quite useful for researchers engaged in the design development and optimization of PEMWE.
Effect of Carbon Concentration and Carbon Bonding Type on the Melting Characteristics of Hydrogen-reduced Iron Ore Pellets
Oct 2022
Publication
Decarbonization of the steel industry is one of the pathways towards a fossil-fuel-free environment. The steel industry is one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Most of these emissions are directly linked to the use of a fossil-fuelbased reductant. Replacing the fossil-based reductant with green H2 enables the transition towards a fossil-free steel industry. The carbon-free iron produced will cause the refining and steelmaking operations to have a starting point far from today’s operations. In addition to carbon being an alloying element in steel production carbon addition controls the melting characteristics of the reduced iron. In the present study the effect of carbon content and form (cementite/graphite) in hydrogen-reduced iron ore pellets on their melting characteristics was examined by means of a differential thermal analyser and optical dilatometer. Carburized samples with a carbon content < 2 wt % did not show any initial melting at the eutectic temperature. At and above 2 wt % the carburized samples showed an initial melting at the eutectic temperature irrespective of the carbon content. However the absorbed heat varies with varied carbon content. The carbon form does not affect the initial melting temperature but it affects the melting progression. Carburized samples melt homogenously while melting of iron-graphite mixtures occurs locally at the interface between iron and carbon particles and when the time is not long enough melting might not occur to any significant extent. Therefore at any given carbon content > 2 wt % the molten fraction is higher in the case of carburized samples which is indicated by the amount of absorbed melting heat.
Thermochemical Looping Technologies for Clean Hydrogen Production – Current Status and Recent Advances
Nov 2022
Publication
This review critically analyses various aspects of the most promising thermochemical cycles for clean hydrogen production. While the current hydrogen market heavily relies on fossil-fuel-based platforms the thermochemical water-splitting systems based on the reduction-oxidation (redox) looping reactions have a significant potential to significantly contribute to the sustainable production of green hydrogen at scale. However compared to the water electrolysis techniques the thermochemical cycles suffer from a low technology readiness level (TRL) which retards the commercial implementation of these technologies. This review mainly focuses on identifying the capability of the state-of-the-art thermochemical cycles to deploy large-scale hydrogen production plants and their techno-economic performance. This study also analyzed the potential integration of the hybrid looping systems with the solar and nuclear reactor designs which are evidenced to be more cost-effective than the electrochemical water-splitting methods but it excludes fossil-based thermochemical processes such as gasification steam methane reforming and pyrolysis. Further investigation is still required to address the technical issues associated with implementing the hybrid thermochemical cycles in order to bring them to the market for sustainable hydrogen production.
Optimal Energy Management for Hydrogen Economy in a Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Feb 2023
Publication
Fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCEVs) are mainly electrified by the fuel cell (FC) system. As a supplementary power source a battery or supercapacitor (SC) is employed (besides the FC) to enhance the power response due to the slow dynamics of the FC. Indeed the performance of the hybrid power system mainly depends on the required power distribution manner among the sources which is managed by the energy management strategy (EMS). This paper considers an FCEV based on the proton exchange membrane FC (PEMFC)/battery/SC. The energy management strategy is designed to ensure optimum power distribution between the sources considering hydrogen consumption. Its main objective is to meet the electric motor’s required power with economic hydrogen consumption and better electrical efficiency. The proposed EMS combines the external energy maximization strategy (EEMS) and the bald eagle search algorithm (BES). Simulation tests for the Extra-Urban Driving Cycle (EUDC) and New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) profiles were performed. The test is supposed to be performed in typical conditions t = 25 ◦C on a flat road without no wind effect. In addition this strategy was compared with the state machine control strategy classic PI and equivalent consumption minimization strategy. In terms of optimization the proposed approach was compared with the original EEMS particle swarm optimization (PSO)-based EEMS and equilibrium optimizer (EO)-based EEMS. The results confirm the ability of the proposed strategy to reduce fuel consumption and enhance system efficiency. This strategy provides 26.36% for NEDC and 11.35% for EUDC fuel-saving and efficiency enhancement by 6.74% for NEDC and 36.19% for EUDC.
Maximizing Green Hydrogen Production from Water Electrocatalysis: Modeling and Optimization
Mar 2023
Publication
The use of green hydrogen as a fuel source for marine applications has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the industry. The development of a sustainable and cost-effective method for producing green hydrogen has gained a lot of attention. Water electrolysis is the best and most environmentally friendly method for producing green hydrogen-based renewable energy. Therefore identifying the ideal operating parameters of the water electrolysis process is critical to hydrogen production. Three controlling factors must be appropriately identified to boost hydrogen generation namely electrolysis time (min) electric voltage (V) and catalyst amount (µg). The proposed methodology contains the following two phases: modeling and optimization. Initially a robust model of the water electrolysis process in terms of controlling factors was established using an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) based on the experimental dataset. After that a modern pelican optimization algorithm (POA) was employed to identify the ideal parameters of electrolysis duration electric voltage and catalyst amount to enhance hydrogen production. Compared to the measured datasets and response surface methodology (RSM) the integration of ANFIS and POA improved the generated hydrogen by around 1.3% and 1.7% respectively. Overall this study highlights the potential of ANFIS modeling and optimal parameter identification in optimizing the performance of solar-powered water electrocatalysis systems for green hydrogen production in marine applications. This research could pave the way for the more widespread adoption of this technology in the marine industry which would help to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
Hierarchical Model Predictive Control for Islanded and Grid-connected Microgrids with Wind Generation and Hydrogen Energy Storage Systems
Aug 2023
Publication
This paper presents a novel energy management strategy (EMS) to control a wind-hydrogen microgrid which includes a wind turbine paired with a hydrogen-based energy storage system (HESS) i.e. hydrogen production storage and re-electrification facilities and a local load. This complies with the mini-grid use case as per the IEA-HIA Task 24 Final Report where three different use cases and configurations of wind farms paired with HESS are proposed in order to promote the integration of wind energy into the grid. Hydrogen production surpluses by wind generation are stored and used to provide a demand-side management solution for energy supply to the local and contractual loads both in the grid-islanded and connected modes with corresponding different control objectives. The EMS is based on a hierarchical model predictive control (MPC) in which long-term and short-term operations are addressed. The long-term operations are managed by a high-level MPC in which power production by wind generation and load demand forecasts are considered in combination with day-ahead market participation. Accordingly the hydrogen production and re-electrification are scheduled so as to jointly track the load demand maximize the revenue through electricity market participation and minimize the HESS operating costs. Instead the management of the short-term operations is entrusted to a low-level MPC which compensates for any deviations of the actual conditions from the forecasts and refines the power production so as to address the real-time market participation and the short time-scale equipment dynamics and constraints. Both levels also take into account operation requirements and devices’ operating ranges through appropriate constraints. The mathematical modeling relies on the mixed-logic dynamic (MLD) framework so that the various logic states and corresponding continuous dynamics of the HESS are considered. This results in a mixed-integer linear program which is solved numerically. The effectiveness of the controller is analyzed by simulations which are carried out using wind forecasts and spot prices of a wind farm in center-south of Italy.
Hydrogen Energy Storage: New Techno-economic Emergence Solution Analysis
Aug 2015
Publication
The integration of various renewable energy sources as well as the liberalization of electricity markets are established facts in modern electrical power systems. The increased share of renewable sources within power systems intensifies the supply variability and intermittency. Therefore energy storage is deemed as one of the solutions for stabilizing the supply of electricity to maintain generation-demand balance and to guarantee uninterrupted supply of energy to users. In the context of sustainable development and energy resources depletion the question of the growth of renewable energy electricity production is highly linked to the ability to propose new and adapted energy storage solutions. The purpose of this multidisciplinary paper is to highlight the new hydrogen production and storage technology its efficiency and the impact of the policy context on its development. A comprehensive techno/socio/economic study of long term hydrogen based storage systems in electrical networks is addressed. The European policy concerning the different energy storage systems and hydrogen production is explicitly discussed. The state of the art of the techno-economic features of the hydrogen production and storage is introduced. Using Matlab-Simulink for a power system of rated 70 kW generator the excess produced hydrogen during high generation periods or low demand can be sold either directly to the grid owners or as filled hydrogen bottles. The affordable use of Hydrogen-based technologies for long term electricity storage is verified.
Design and Analysis of Photovoltaic/wind Operations at MPPT for Hydrogen Production using a PEM Electrolyzer: Towards Innovations in Green Technology
Jul 2023
Publication
In recent times renewable energy systems (RESs) such as Photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbine (WT) are being employed to produce hydrogen. This paper aims to compare the efficiency and performance of PV and WT as sources of RESs to power polymer electrolyte membrane electrolyzer (PEMEL) under different conditions. The study assessed the input/ output power of PV and WT the efficiency of the MPPT controller the calculation of the green hydrogen production rate and the efficiency of each system separately. The study analyzed variable irradiance from 600 to 1000 W/m2 for a PV system and a fixed temperature of 25˚C while for the WT system it considered variable wind speed from 10 to 14 m/s and zero fixed pitch angle. The study demonstrated that the applied controllers were effective fast low computational and highly accurate. The obtained results showed that WT produces twice the PEMEL capacity while the PV system is designed to be equal to the PEMEL capacity. The study serves as a reference for designing PV or WT to feed an electrolyzer. The MATLAB program validated the proposed configurations with their control schemes.
Recent Application of Nanomaterials to Overcome Technological Challenges of Microbial Electrolysis Cells
Apr 2022
Publication
Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) have attracted significant interest as sustainable green hydrogen production devices because they utilize the environmentally friendly biocatalytic oxidation of organic wastes and electrochemical proton reduction with the support of relatively lower external power compared to that used by water electrolysis. However the commercialization of MEC technology has stagnated owing to several critical technological challenges. Recently many attempts have been made to utilize nanomaterials in MECs owing to the unique physicochemical properties of nanomaterials originating from their extremely small size (at least <100 nm in one dimension). The extraordinary properties of nanomaterials have provided great clues to overcome the technological hurdles in MECs. Nanomaterials are believed to play a crucial role in the commercialization of MECs. Thus understanding the technological challenges of MECs the characteristics of nanomaterials and the employment of nanomaterials in MECs could be helpful in realizing commercial MEC technologies. Herein the critical challenges that need to be addressed for MECs are highlighted and then previous studies that used nanomaterials to overcome the technological difficulties of MECs are reviewed.
Integrated Energy System Powered a Building in Sharjah Emirates in the United Arab Emirates
Jan 2023
Publication
In this study a green hydrogen system was studied to provide electricity for an office building in the Sharjah emirate in the United Arab Emirates. Using a solar PV a fuel cell a diesel generator and battery energy storage; a hybrid green hydrogen energy system was compared to a standard hybrid system (Solar PV a diesel generator and battery energy storage). The results show that both systems adequately provided the power needed for the load of the office building. The cost of the energy for both the basic and green hydrogen energy systems was 0.305 USD/kWh and 0.313 USD/kWh respectively. The cost of the energy for both systems is very similar even though the capital cost of the green hydrogen energy system was the highest value; however the replacement and operational costs of the basic system were higher in comparison to the green hydrogen energy system. Moreover the impact of the basic system in terms of the carbon footprint was more significant when compared with the green hydrogen system. The reduction in carbon dioxide was a 4.6 ratio when compared with the basic system.
Techno-Economic Potential of Wind-Based Green Hydrogen Production in Djibouti: Literature Review and Case Studies
Aug 2023
Publication
Disputed supply chains inappropriate weather and low investment followed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to a phenomenal energy crisis especially in the Horn of Africa. Accordingly proposing eco-friendly and sustainable solutions to diversify the access of electricity in the Republic of Djibouti which has no conventional energy resources and is completely energy dependent on its neighboring countries has become a must. Therefore the implementation of sustainable renewable and energy storage systems is nationally prioritized. This paper deals for the first time with the exploitation of such an affordable and carbon-free resource to produce hydrogen from wind energy in the rural areas of Nagad and Bara Wein in Djibouti. The production of hydrogen and the relevant CO2 emission reduction using different De Wind D6 Vestas and Nordex wind turbines are displayed while using Alkaline and Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. The Bara Wein and Nagad sites had a monthly wind speed above 7 m/s. From the results the Nordex turbine accompanied with the alkaline electrolyzer provides the most affordable electricity production approximately 0.0032 $/kWh for both sites; this cost is about one per hundred the actual imported hydroelectric energy price. Through the ecological analysis the Nordex turbine is the most suitable wind turbine with a CO2 emission reduction of 363.58 tons for Bara Wein compared to 228.76 tons for Nagad. While integrating the initial cost of wind turbine implementation in the capital investment the mass and the levelized cost of the produced green hydrogen are estimated as (29.68 tons and 11.48 $/kg) for Bara Wein with corresponding values of (18.68 tons and 18.25 $/kg) for Nagad.
Review on Ammonia as a Potential Fuel: From Synthesis to Economics
Feb 2021
Publication
Ammonia a molecule that is gaining more interest as a fueling vector has been considered as a candidate to power transport produce energy and support heating applications for decades. However the particular characteristics of the molecule always made it a chemical with low if any benefit once compared to conventional fossil fuels. Still the current need to decarbonize our economy makes the search of new methods crucial to use chemicals such as ammonia that can be produced and employed without incurring in the emission of carbon oxides. Therefore current efforts in this field are leading scientists industries and governments to seriously invest efforts in the development of holistic solutions capable of making ammonia a viable fuel for the transition toward a clean future. On that basis this review has approached the subject gathering inputs from scientists actively working on the topic. The review starts from the importance of ammonia as an energy vector moving through all of the steps in the production distribution utilization safety legal considerations and economic aspects of the use of such a molecule to support the future energy mix. Fundamentals of combustion and practical cases for the recovery of energy of ammonia are also addressed thus providing a complete view of what potentially could become a vector of crucial importance to the mitigation of carbon emissions. Different from other works this review seeks to provide a holistic perspective of ammonia as a chemical that presents benefits and constraints for storing energy from sustainable sources. State-of-the-art knowledge provided by academics actively engaged with the topic at various fronts also enables a clear vision of the progress in each of the branches of ammonia as an energy carrier. Further the fundamental boundaries of the use of the molecule are expanded to real technical issues for all potential technologies capable of using it for energy purposes legal barriers that will be faced to achieve its deployment safety and environmental considerations that impose a critical aspect for acceptance and wellbeing and economic implications for the use of ammonia across all aspects approached for the production and implementation of this chemical as a fueling source. Herein this work sets the principles research practicalities and future views of a transition toward a future where ammonia will be a major energy player.
Feasibility Assessment of Alternative Clean Power Systems onboard Passenger Short-Distance Ferry
Sep 2023
Publication
In order to promote low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen to decarbonize the maritime sector it is crucial to promote clean fuels and zero-emission propulsion systems in demonstrative projects and to showcase innovative technologies such as fuel cells in vessels operating in local public transport that could increase general audience acceptability thanks to their showcase potential. In this study a short sea journey ferry used in the port of Genova as a public transport vehicle is analyzed to evaluate a ”zero emission propulsion” retrofitting process. In the paper different types of solutions (batteries proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)) and fuels (hydrogen ammonia natural gas and methanol) are investigated to identify the most feasible technology to be implemented onboard according to different aspects: ferry daily journey and scheduling available volumes and spaces propulsion power needs energy storage/fuel tank capacity needed economics etc. The paper presents a multi-aspect analysis that resulted in the identification of the hydrogen-powered PEMFC as the best clean power system to guarantee for this specific case study a suitable retrofitting of the vessel that could guarantee a zero-emission journey
Recent Advances in High-Temperature Steam Electrolysis with Solid Oxide Electrolysers for Green Hydrogen Production
Apr 2023
Publication
Hydrogen is known to be the carbon-neutral alternative energy carrier with the highest energy density. Currently more than 95% of hydrogen production technologies rely on fossil fuels resulting in greenhouse gas emissions. Water electrolysis is one of the most widely used technologies for hydrogen generation. Nuclear power a renewable energy source can provide the heat needed for the process of steam electrolysis for clean hydrogen production. This review paper analyses the recent progress in hydrogen generation via high-temperature steam electrolysis through solid oxide electrolysis cells using nuclear thermal energy. Protons and oxygen-ions conducting solid oxide electrolysis processes are discussed in this paper. The scope of this review report covers a broad range including the recent advances in material development for each component (i.e. hydrogen electrode oxygen electrode electrolyte interconnect and sealant) degradation mechanisms and countermeasures to mitigate them.
Enhancement of Microgrid Frequency Stability Based on the Combined Power-to-Hydrogen-to-Power Technology under High Penetration Renewable Units
Apr 2023
Publication
Recently with the large-scale integration of renewable energy sources into microgrid (µGs) power electronics distributed energy systems have gained popularity. However low inertia reduces system frequency stability and anti-disturbance capabilities exposing power quality to intermittency and uncertainty in photovoltaics or wind turbines. To ensure system stability the virtual inertia control (VIC) is presented. This paper proposes two solutions to overcome the low inertia problem and the surplus in capacities resulting from renewable energy sources. The first solution employs superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) which can be deemed as an efficient solution for damping the frequency oscillations. Therefore in this work SMES that is managed by a simple proportional-integral-derivative controller (PID) controller is utilized to overcome the low inertia. In the second solution the hydrogen storage system is employed to maintain the stability of the microgrid by storing surplus power generated by renewable energy sources (RESs). Power-to-Power is a method of storing excess renewable energy as chemical energy in the form of hydrogen. Hydrogen can be utilized locally or delivered to a consumption node. The proposed µG operation demonstrates that the integration of the photovoltaics (PVs) wind turbines (WTs) diesel engine generator (DEG) electrolyzer micro gas turbine (µGT) and SMES is adequate to fulfill the load requirements under transient operating circumstances such as a low and high PV output power as well as to adapt to sudden changes in the load demand. The effectiveness of the proposed schemes is confirmed using real irradiance data (Benban City Egypt) using a MATLAB/SIMULINK environment.
PEMFC Poly-Generation Systems: Developments, Merits, and Challenges
Oct 2021
Publication
Significant research efforts are directed towards finding new ways to reduce the cost increase efficiency and decrease the environmental impact of power-generation systems. The poly-generation concept is a promising strategy that enables the development of a sustainable power system. Over the past few years the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell-based Poly-Generation Systems (PEMFC-PGSs) have received accelerated developments due to the low-temperature operation high efficiency and low environmental impact. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the main PEMFC-PGSs including Combined Heat and Power (CHP) co-generation systems Combined Cooling and Power (CCP) co-generation systems Combined Cooling Heat and Power (CCHP) tri-generation systems and Combined Water and Power (CWP) co-generation systems. First the main technologies used in PEMFC-PGSs such as those related to hydrogen production energy storage and Waste Heat Recovery (WHR) etc. are detailed. Then the research progresses on the economic energy and environmental performance of the different PEMFC-PGSs are presented. Also the recent commercialization activities on these systems are highlighted focusing on the leading countries in this field. Furthermore the remaining economic and technical obstacles of these systems along with the future research directions to mitigate them are discussed. The review reveals the potential of the PEMFC-PGS in securing a sustainable future of the power systems. However many economic and technical issues particularly those related to high cost and degradation rate still need to be addressed before unlocking the full benefits of such systems.
Developments in Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Mar 2023
Publication
The rapid growth in fossil fuels has resulted in climate change that needs to be controlled in the near future. Several methods have been proposed to control climate change including the development of efficient energy conversion devices. Fuel cells are environmentally friendly energy conversion devices that can be fuelled by green hydrogen with only water as a by-product or by using different biofuels such as biomass in wastewater urea in wastewater biogas from municipal and agricultural wastes syngas from agriculture wastes and waste carbon. This editorial discusses the fundamentals of the operation of the fuel cell and their application in various sectors such as residential transportation and power generation.
Climate Action for the Shipping Industry: Some Perspectives on the Role of Nuclear Power in Maritime Decarbonization
Feb 2023
Publication
The shipping industry is a major enabler of globalization trade commerce and human welfare. But it is still heavily served by fossil fuels which make it one of the foremost greenhouse gas emitting sectors operational today. It is also one of the hardest to abate segments of the transport industry. As part of the economy-wide climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts it is necessary to consider a low carbon energy transition for this segment as well. This study examines the potential role of nuclear power and cogeneration towards greening this sector and identifies the associated techno-commercial and policy challenges associated with the transition. Quantitative estimates of the economics and investments associated with some of the possible routes are also presented. Alternatives such as nuclear-powered ships along commercial maritime trading routes ships working on nuclear derived green hydrogen ammonia or other sustainable power fuels will enable not only decarbonization of the shipping industry but also allow further diversification of the nuclear industry through non-electric applications of nuclear power and new sector coupling opportunities. In the run-up to the UNFCCC-COP28 meeting in 2023 in UAE nuclear equipped nations heavily engaged in and dependent on maritime trade and commerce should definitely consider nuclear driven decarbonization of shipping and some of the options presented here as part of their climate action strategies.
Large-scale Underground Hydrogen Storage: Integrated Modeling of a Reservoir-wellbore System
Jan 2023
Publication
Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS) has received significant attention over the past few years as hydrogen seems well-suited for adjusting seasonal energy gaps. We present an integrated reservoir-well model for “Viking A00 the depleted gas field in the North Sea as a potential site for UHS. Our findings show that utilizing the integrated model results in more reasonable predictions as the gas composition changes over time. Sensitivity analyses show that the lighter the cushion gas the more production can be obtained. However the purity of the produced hydrogen will be affected to some extent which can be enhanced by increasing the fill-up period and the injection rate. The results also show that even though hydrogen diffuses into the reservoir and mixes up with the native fluids (mainly methane) the impact of hydrogen diffusion is marginal. All these factors will potentially influence the project's economics.
Effect of Au Plasmonic Material on Poly M-Toluidine for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation from Sewage Water
Feb 2022
Publication
This study provides H2 gas as a renewable energy source from sewage water splitting reaction using a PMT/Au photocathode. So this study has a dual benefit for hydrogen generation; at the same time it removes the contaminations of sewage water. The preparation of the PMT is carried out through the polymerization process from an acid medium. Then the Au sputter was carried out using the sputter device under different times (1 and 2 min) for PMT/Au-1 min and PMT/Au-2min respectively. The complete analyses confirm the chemical structure such as XRD FTIR HNMR SEM and Vis-UV optical analyses. The prepared electrode PMT/Au is used for the hydrogen generation reaction using Na2S2O3 or sewage water as an electrolyte. The PMT crystalline size is 15 nm. The incident photon to current efficiency (IPCE) efficiency increases from 2.3 to 3.6% (at 390 nm) and the number of H2 moles increases from 8.4 to 33.1 mmol h−1 cm−2 for using Na2S2O3 and sewage water as electrolyte respectively. Moreover all the thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy (Ea) enthalpy (∆H*) and entropy (∆S*) were calculated; additionally a simple mechanism is mentioned for the water-splitting reaction.
Investigating the Impact of Economic Uncertainty on Optimal Sizing of Grid-Independent Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems
Aug 2021
Publication
One of the many barriers to decarbonization and decentralization of the energy sector in developing countries is the economic uncertainty. As such this study scrutinizes economics of three grid-independent hybrid renewable-based systems proposed to co-generate electricity and heat for a small-scale load. Accordingly the under-study systems are simulated and optimized with the aid of HOMER Pro software. Here a 20-year average value of discount and inflation rates is deemed a benchmark case. The techno-economic-environmental and reliability results suggest a standalone solar/wind/electrolyzer/hydrogen-based fuel cell integrated with a hydrogen-based boiler system is the best alternative. Moreover to ascertain the impact of economic uncertainty on optimal unit sizing of the nominated model the fluctuations of the nominal discount rate and inflation respectively constitute within the range of 15–20% and 10–26%. The findings of economic uncertainty analysis imply that total net present cost (TNPC) fluctuates around the benchmark value symmetrically between $478704 and $814905. Levelized energy cost varies from an amount 69% less than the benchmark value up to two-fold of that. Furthermore photovoltaic (PV) optimal size starts from a value 23% less than the benchmark case and rises up to 55% more. The corresponding figures for wind turbine (WT) are respectively 21% and 29%. Eventually several practical policies are introduced to cope with economic uncertainty.
Techno-economic Feasibility of Hybrid PV/wind/battery/thermal Storage Trigeneration System: Toward 100% Energy Independency and Green Hydrogen Production
Dec 2022
Publication
With the clear adverse impacts of fossil fuel-based energy systems on the climate and environment ever-growing interest and rapid developments are taking place toward full or nearly full dependence on renewable energies in the next few decades. Estonia is a European country with large demands for electricity and thermal energy for district heating. Considering it as the case study this work explores the feasibility and full potential of optimally sized photovoltaic (PV) wind and PV/wind systems equipped with electric and thermal storage to fulfill those demands. Given the large excess energy from 100% renewable energy systems for an entire country this excess is utilized to first meet the district heating demand and then to produce hydrogen fuel. Using simplified models for PV and wind systems and considering polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysis a genetic optimizer is employed for scanning Estonia for optimal installation sites of the three systems that maximize the fulfillment of the demand and the supply–demand matching while minimizing the cost of energy. The results demonstrate the feasibility of all systems fully covering the two demands while making a profit compared to selling the excess produced electricity directly. However the PV-driven system showed enormous required system capacity and amounts of excess energy with the limited solar resources in Estonia. The wind system showed relatively closer characteristics to the hybrid system but required a higher storage capacity by 75.77%. The hybrid PV/wind-driven system required a total capacity of 194 GW most of which belong to the wind system. It was also superior concerning the amount (15.05 × 109 tons) and cost (1.42 USD/kg) of the produced green hydrogen. With such full mapping of the installation capacities and techno-economic parameters of the three systems across the country this study can assist policymakers when planning different country-scale cogeneration systems.
Precise Dynamic Modelling of Real-World Hybrid Solar-Hydrogen Energy Systems for Grid-Connected Buildings
Jul 2023
Publication
Hybrid renewable hydrogen energy systems could play a key role in delivering sustainable solutions for enabling the Net Zero ambition; however the lack of exact computational modelling tools for sizing the integrated system components and simulating their real-world dynamic behaviour remains a key technical challenge against their widespread adoption. This paper addresses this challenge by developing a precise dynamic model that allows sizing the rated capacity of the hybrid system components and accurately simulating their real-world dynamic behaviour while considering effective energy management between the grid-integrated system components to ensure that the maximum possible proportion of energy demand is supplied from clean sources rather than the grid. The proposed hybrid system components involve a solar PV system electrolyser pressurised hydrogen storage tank and fuel cell. The developed hybrid system model incorporates a set of mathematical models for the individual system components. The developed precise dynamic model allows identifying the electrolyser’s real-world hydrogen production levels in response to the input intermittent solar energy production while also simulating the electrochemical behaviour of the fuel cell and precisely quantifying its real-world output power and hydrogen consumption in response to load demand variations. Using a university campus case study building in Scotland the effectiveness of the developed model has been assessed by benchmarking comparison between its results versus those obtained from a generic model in which the electrochemical characteristics of the electrolyser and fuel cell systems were not taken into consideration. Results from this comparison have demonstrated the potential of the developed model in simulating the real-world dynamic operation of hybrid solar hydrogen energy systems for grid-connected buildings while sizing the exact capacity of system components avoiding oversizing associated with underutilisation costs and inaccurate simulation.
Optimal Parameter Determination of Membrane Bioreactor to Boost Biohydrogen Production-Based Integration of ANFIS Modeling and Honey Badger Algorithm
Jan 2023
Publication
Hydrogen is a new promising energy source. Three operating parameters including inlet gas flow rate pH and impeller speed mainly determine the biohydrogen production from membrane bioreactor. The work aims to boost biohydrogen production by determining the optimal values of the control parameters. The proposed methodology contains two parts: modeling and parameter estimation. A robust ANIFS model to simulate a membrane bioreactor has been constructed for the modeling stage. Compared with RMS thanks to ANFIS the RMSE decreased from 2.89 using ANOVA to 0.0183 using ANFIS. Capturing the proper correlation between the inputs and output of the membrane bioreactor process system encourages the constructed ANFIS model to predict the output performance exactly. Then the optimal operating parameters were identified using the honey badger algorithm. During the optimization process inlet gas flow rate pH and impeller speed are used as decision variables whereas the biohydrogen production is the objective function required to be maximum. The integration between ANFIS and HBA boosted the hydrogen production yield from 23.8 L to 25.52 L increasing by 7.22%.
Plastic and Waste Tire Pyrolysis Focused on Hydrogen Production—A Review
Dec 2022
Publication
In this review we compare hydrogen production from waste by pyrolysis and bioprocesses. In contrast the pyrolysis feed was limited to plastic and tire waste unlikely to be utilized by biological decomposition methods. Recent risks of pyrolysis such as pollutant emissions during the heat decomposition of polymers and high energy demands were described and compared to thresholds of bioprocesses such as dark fermentation. Many pyrolysis reactors have been adapted for plastic pyrolysis after successful investigation experiences involving waste tires. Pyrolysis can transform these wastes into other petroleum products for reuse or for energy carriers such as hydrogen. Plastic and tire pyrolysis is part of an alternative synthesis method for smart polymers including semi-conductive polymers. Pyrolysis is less expensive than gasification and requires a lower energy demand with lower emissions of hazardous pollutants. Short-time utilization of these wastes without the emission of metals into the environment can be solved using pyrolysis. Plastic wastes after pyrolysis produce up to 20 times more hydrogen than dark fermentation from 1 kg of waste. The research summarizes recent achievements in plastic and tire waste pyrolysis development.
Innovations in Hydrogen Storage Materials: Synthesis, Applications, and Prospects
Jul 2024
Publication
Hydrogen globally recognized as the most efficient and clean energy carrier holds the potential to transform future energy systems through its use as a fuel and chemical resource. Although progress has been made in reversible hydrogen adsorption and release challenges in storage continue to impede widespread adoption. This review explores recent advancements in hydrogen storage materials and synthesis methods emphasizing the role of nanotechnology and innovative synthesis techniques in enhancing storage performance and addressing these challenges to drive progress in the field. The review provides a comprehensive overview of various material classes including metal hydrides complex hydrides carbon materials metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and porous materials. Over 60 % of reviewed studies focused on metal hydrides and alloys for hydrogen storage. Additionally the impact of nanotechnology on storage performance and the importance of optimizing synthesis parameters to tailor material properties for specific applications are summarized. Various synthesis methods are evaluated with a special emphasis on the role of nanotechnology in improving storage performance. Mechanical milling emerges as a commonly used and cost-effective method for fabricating intermetallic hydrides capable of adjusting hydrogen storage properties. The review also explores hydrogen storage tank embrittlement mechanisms particularly subcritical crack growth and examines the advantages and limitations of different materials for various applications supported by case studies showcasing real-world implementations. The challenges underscore current limitations in hydrogen storage materials highlighting the need for improved storage capacity and kinetics. The review also explores prospects for developing materials with enhanced performance and safety providing a roadmap for ongoing advancements in the field. Key findings and directions for future research in hydrogen storage materials emphasize their critical role in shaping future energy systems.
Innovative Hybrid Energy Storage Systems with Sustainable Integration of Green Hydrogen and Energy Management Solutions for Standalone PV Microgrids Based on Reduced Fractional Gradient Descent Algorithm
Oct 2024
Publication
This paper investigates innovative solutions to enhance the performance and lifespan of standalone photovoltaic (PV)-based microgrids with a particular emphasis on off-grid communities. A major challenge in these systems is the limited lifespan of batteries. To overcome this issue researchers have created hybrid energy storage systems (HESS) along with advanced power management strategies. This study introduces innovative multi-level HESS approaches and a related energy management strategy designed to alleviate the charge/discharge stress on batteries. Comprehensive Matlab Simulink models of various HESS topologies within standalone PV microgrids are utilized to evaluate system performance under diverse weather conditions and load profiles for rural site. The findings reveal that the proposed HESS significantly extends battery life expectancy compared to existing solutions. Furthermore the paper presents a novel energy management strategy based on the Reduced Fractional Gradient Descent (RFGD) algorithm optimization tailored for hybrid systems that include photovoltaic fuel cell battery and supercapacitor components. This strategy aims to minimize hydrogen consumption of Fuel Cells (FCs) thereby supporting the production of green ammonia for local industrial use. The RFGD algorithm is selected for its minimal user-defined parameters and high convergence efficiency. The proposed method is compared with other algorithms such as the Lyrebird Optimization Algorithm (LOA) and Osprey Optimization Algorithm (OOA). The RFGD algorithm exhibits superior accuracy in optimizing energy management achieving a 15% reduction in hydrogen consumption. Its efficiency is evident from the reduced computational time compared to conventional algorithms. Although minor losses in computational resources were observed they were substantially lower than those associated with traditional optimization techniques. Overall the RFGD algorithm offers a robust and efficient solution for enhancing the performance of hybrid energy systems.
Optimal Multi-layer Economical Schedule for Coordinated Multiple Mode Operation of Wind-solar Microgrids with Hybrid Energy Storage Systems
Nov 2023
Publication
The aim of this paper is the design and implementation of an advanced model predictive control (MPC) strategy for the management of a wind–solar microgrid (MG) both in the islanded and grid-connected modes. The MG includes energy storage systems (ESSs) and interacts with external hydrogen and electricity consumers as an extra feature. The system participates in two different electricity markets i.e. the daily and real-time markets characterized by different time-scales. Thus a high-layer control (HLC) and a low-layer control (LLC) are developed for the daily market and the real-time market respectively. The sporadic characteristics of renewable energy sources and the variations in load demand are also briefly discussed by proposing a controller based on the stochastic MPC approach. Numerical simulations with real wind and solar generation profiles and spot prices show that the proposed controller optimally manages the ESSs even when there is a deviation between the predicted scenario determined at the HLC and the real-time one managed by the LLC. Finally the strategy is tested on a lab-scale MG set up at Khalifa University Abu Dhabi UAE.
A Review on Application of Hydrogen in Gas Turbines with Intercooler Adjustments
Mar 2024
Publication
In recent years traditional fossil fuels such as coal oil and natural gas have historically dominated various applications but there has been a growing shift towards cleaner alternatives. Among these alternatives hydrogen (H2) stands out as a highly promising substitute for all other conventional fuels. Today hydrogen (H2) is actively taking on a significant role in displacing traditional fuel sources. The utilization of hydrogen in gas turbine (GT) power generation offers a significant advantage in terms of lower greenhouse gas emissions. The performance of hydrogen-based gas turbines is influenced by a range of variables including ambient conditions (temperature and pressure) component efficiency operational parameters and other factors. Additionally incorporating an intercooler into the gas turbine system yields several advantages such as reducing compression work and maintaining power and efficiency. Many scholars and researchers have conducted comprehensive investigations into the components mentioned above within context of gas turbines (GTs). This study provides an extensive examination of the research conducted on hydrogen-powered gas turbine and intercooler with employed different methods and techniques with a specific emphasis on the different case studies of a hydrogen gas turbine and intercooler. Moreover this study not only examined the current state of research on hydrogen-powered gas turbine and intercooler but also covered its influence by offering the effective recommendations and insightful for guiding for future research in this field.
Robust Control for Techno-economic Efficiency Energy Management of Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Apr 2022
Publication
The design of an efficient techno-economic autonomous fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle(FCHEV) is a crucial challenge. This paper investigates the design of a near optimal PI controller for an automated FCHEV where autonomy is expressed as efficient and robust tracking of a given reference speed trajectory without driver’s intervention. An impartial comparison is introduced to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed metaheuristic-based optimal controllers in enhancing the system dynamic performance. The comprehensive optimization performance indicator is considered as a function of the vehicle dynamic characteristics while determining the optimal controller gains. In this paper the proposed effective up-to-date metaheuristic techniques are the grey wolf optimization (GWO) as well as the artificial bee colony (ABC). Using MATLAB TM /Simulink numerical simulations clearly illustrate the efficiency of near-optimal gains in the optimized tuning methodologies and the fixed manual one in realizing adequate velocity tracking. The simulation results demonstrate the superiority of both ABC and GWO rather than the manual controller for driving cycles of high acceleration and deceleration levels. In absence of these latter the manual defined gain controller is considered sufficient. Through a comprehensive sensitivity analysis the robustness of both metaheuristic-based controllers is verified under diverse driving cycles of different operation features and nature. Despite GWO results in better dynamic characteristics the ABC provides more economical feature with about 1.5% compared to manual system in extra urban driving cycle. However manual-controller has the minimum fuel cost under the United States driving cycle developed by the environmental protection agency as a New York city cycle(US EPA NYCC) and urban driving cycle (ECE). Ecologically electric vehicles have an environmentally friendly effect especially when driven with green hydrogen. Autonomous vehicles involving velocity control systems would raise car share and provide more comfort.
An Optimal Standalone Wind-photovoltaic Power Plant System for Green Hydrogen Generation: Case Study for Hydrogen Refueling Station
May 2024
Publication
Sustainability goals include the utilization of renewable energy resources to supply the energy needs in addition to wastewater treatment to satisfy the water demand. Moreover hydrogen has become a promising energy carrier and green fuel to decarbonize the industrial and transportation sectors. In this context this research investigates a wind-photovoltaic power plant to produce green hydrogen for hydrogen refueling station and to operate an electrocoagulation water treatment unit in Ostrava Czech Republic’s northeast region. The study conducts a techno-economic analysis through HOMER Pro® software for optimal sizing of the power station components and to investigate the economic indices of the plant. The power station employs photovoltaic panels and wind turbines to supply the required electricity for electrolyzers and electrocoagulation reactors. As an offgrid system lead acid batteries are utilized to store the surplus electricity. Wind speed and solar irradiation are the key role site dependent parameters that determine the cost of hydrogen electricity and wastewater treatment. The simulated model considers the capital operating and replacement costs for system components. In the proposed system 240 kg of hydrogen as well as 720 kWh electrical energy are daily required for the hydrogen refueling station and the electrocoagulation unit respectively. Accordingly the power station annually generates 6997990 kWh of electrical energy in addition to 85595 kg of green hydrogen. Based on the economic analysis the project’s NPC is determined to be €5.49 M and the levelized cost of Hydrogen (LCH) is 2.89 €/kg excluding compressor unit costs. This value proves the effectiveness of this power system which encourages the utilization of green hydrogen for fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCVs). Furthermore emerging electrocoagulation studies produce hydrogen through wastewater treatment increasing hydrogen production and lowering LCH. Therefore this study is able to provide practicable methodology support for optimal sizing of the power station components which is beneficial for industrialization and economic development as well as transition toward sustainability and autonomous energy systems.
Recent Advances in Sustainable Hydrogen Production from Microalgae: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Jan 2024
Publication
The depletion of fossil fuel reserves has resulted from their application in the industrial and energy sectors. As a result substantial efforts have been dedicated to fostering the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources via technological advancements in industrial processes. Microalgae can be used to produce biofuels such as biodiesel hydrogen and bioethanol. Microalgae are particularly suitable for hydrogen production due to their rapid growth rate ability to thrive in diverse habitats ability to resolve conflicts between fuel and food pro duction and capacity to capture and utilize atmospheric carbon dioxide. Therefore microalgae-based bio hydrogen production has attracted significant attention as a clean and sustainable fuel to achieve carbon neutrality and sustainability in nature. To this end the review paper emphasizes recent information related to microalgae-based biohydrogen production mechanisms of sustainable hydrogen production factors affecting biohydrogen production by microalgae bioreactor design and hydrogen production advanced strategies to improve efficiency of biohydrogen production by microalgae along with bottlenecks and perspectives to over come the challenges. This review aims to collate advances and new knowledge emerged in recent years for microalgae-based biohydrogen production and promote the adoption of biohydrogen as an alternative to con ventional hydrocarbon biofuels thereby expediting the carbon neutrality target that is most advantageous to the environment.
Optimal Scheduling of Hydrogen Storage in Integrated Energy System Including Multi-source and Load Uncertainties
Dec 2024
Publication
Demand response (DR) is a crucial element in the optimization of integrated energy systems (IESs) that incor porate distributed generation (DG). However its inherent uncertainty poses significant challenges to the eco nomic viability of IESs. This research presents a novel economic dispatch model for IESs utilizing information gap decision theory (IGDT). The model integrates various components to improve IES performance and dispatch efficiency. With a focus on hydrogen energy the model considers users’ energy consumption patterns thereby improving system flexibility. By applying IGDT the model effectively addresses the uncertainty associated with DR and DG overcoming the limitations of traditional methods. The research findings indicate that in relation to the baseline method the proposed model has the potential to reduce operating costs by 6.3 % and carbon emissions by 4.2 %. The integration of a stepwise carbon trading mechanism helps boost both economic and environmental advantages achieving a 100 % wind power consumption rate in the optimized plan. In addition the daily operating costs are minimized to 23758.99 ¥ while carbon emissions are significantly reduced to 34192 kg. These findings provide quantitative decision support for IES dispatch planners to help them develop effective dispatch strategies that are consistent with low-carbon economic initiatives.
Fuel Cell Systems for Maritime: A Review of Research Development, Commercial Products, Applications, and Perspectives
Dec 2022
Publication
The ambitious targets set by the International Maritime Organization for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping require radical actions by all relevant stakeholders. In this context the interest in high efficiency and low emissions (even zero in the case of hydrogen) fuel cell technology for maritime applications has been rising during the last decade pushing the research developed by academia and industries. This paper aims to present a comparative review of the fuel cell systems suitable for the maritime field focusing on PEMFC and SOFC technologies. This choice is due to the spread of these fuel cell types concerning the other ones in the maritime field. The following issues are analyzed in detail: (i) the main characteristics of fuel cell systems; (ii) the available technology suppliers; (iii) international policies for fuel cells onboard ships; (iv) past and ongoing projects at the international level that aim to assess fuel cell applications in the maritime industry; (v) the possibility to apply fuel cell systems on different ship types. This review aims to be a reference and a guide to state both the limitations and the developing potential of fuel cell systems for different maritime applications.
A Review of Water Electrolysis-based Systems for Hydrogen Production using Hybrid/Solar/Wind Energy Systems
Oct 2022
Publication
Hydrogen energy as clean and efcient energy is considered signifcant support for the construction of a sustainable society in the face of global climate change and the looming energy revolution. Hydrogen is one of the most important chemical substances on earth and can be obtained through various techniques using renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. However the necessity for a gradual transition to renewable energy sources signifcantly hampers eforts to identify and implement green hydrogen production paths. Therefore this paper’s objective is to provide a technological review of the systems of hydrogen production from solar and wind energy utilizing several types of water electrolyzers. The current paper starts with a short brief about the diferent production techniques. A detailed comparison between water electrolyzer types and a complete illustration of hydrogen production techniques using solar and wind are presented with examples after which an economic assessment of green hydrogen production by comparing the costs of the discussed renewable sources with other production methods. Finally the challenges that face the mentioned production methods are illuminated in the current review.
Multi-agent Based Optimal Sizing of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems and their Significance in Sustainable Energy Development
Nov 2024
Publication
This paper delves into the enhancement and optimization of on-grid renewable energy systems using a variety of renewable energy sources with a particular focus on large-scale applications designed to meet the energy demand of a certain load. As global concerns surrounding climate change continue to mount the urgency of replacing traditional fossil fuel-based power generation with cleaner more cost-effective and dependable alternatives becomes increasingly apparent. In this context a comprehensive investigation is conducted on grid connected hybrid energy system that combines photovoltaic wind and fuel cell technologies. The study employs three state-of-the-art optimization algorithms namely Walrus Optimization Algorithm (WaOA) Coati Optimization Algorithm (COA) and Osprey Optimization Algorithm (OOA) to determine the optimal system size and energy management strategies all aimed at minimizing the cost of energy (COE) for grid-based electricity. The results of the optimization process are compared with the results obtained from the utilization of the Particle swarm optimization (PSO) and Grey Wolf optimizer (GWO). The findings of this study underscore both the practical feasibility and the critical importance of adopting on-grid renewable energy systems to decrease the dependence on traditional energy sources within the grid. The proposed WaOA succeeded to reach the optimal solution of the optimal design process with a COE of 0.51758129611 $//kwh while keeping the loss of power supply probability (LPSP) the reliability index at 7.303681e-19. The practical recommendations and forwardlooking insights provided within this research hold the potential to foster sustainable development and effectively mitigate carbon emissions in the future.
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