Iran, Islamic Republic of
Thermodynamic Modelling and Optimisation of a Green Hydrogen-blended Syngas-fueled Integrated PV-SOFC System
Sep 2023
Publication
Developing an effective energy transition roadmap is crucial in the face of global commitments to achieve net zero emissions. While renewable power generation systems are expanding challenges such as curtailments and grid constraints can lead to energy loss. To address this surplus electricity can be converted into green hydrogen serving as a key component in the energy transition. This research explores the use of renewable solar energy for powering a proton exchange membrane electrolyser to produce green hydrogen while a downdraft gasifier fed by municipal solid waste generates hydrogen-enriched syngas. The blended fuel is then used to feed a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system. The study investigates the impact of hydrogen content on the performance of the fuel cell-based power plant from thermodynamics and exergoeconomic perspectives. Multiobjective optimisation using a genetic algorithm identifies optimal operating conditions for the system. Results show that blending hydrogen with syngas increases combined heat and power efficiency by up to 3% but also raises remarkably the unit product cost and reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore the optimal values for hydrogen content current density temperatures and other parameters are determined. These findings contribute to the design and operation of an efficient and sustainable energy generation system.
Lab-Scale Investigation of the Integrated Backup/Storage System for Wind Turbines Using Alkaline Electrolyzer
Apr 2023
Publication
The depletion of fossil fuel sources has encouraged the authorities to use renewable resources such as wind energy to generate electricity. A backup/storage system can improve the performance of wind turbines due to fluctuations in power demand. The novelty of this study is to utilize a hybrid system for a wind farm using the excess electricity generated by the wind turbines to produce hydrogen in an alkaline electrolyzer (AEL). The hydrogen storage tank stores the produced hydrogen and provides hydrogen to the proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) to generate electricity once the power demand is higher than the electricity generated by the wind turbines. The goal of this study is to use the wind profile of a region in Iran namely the Cohen region to analyze the performance of the suggested integrated system on a micro scale. The output results of this study can be used as a case study for construction in the future based on the exact specification of NTK300 wind turbines. The results indicate that with the minimum power supply of 30 kW from the wind turbines on a lab scale the generated power by the PEMFC will be 1008 W while the maximum generated hydrogen will be 304 mL/h.
Solid Air Hydrogen Liquefaction, the Missing Link of the Hydrogen Economy
Mar 2023
Publication
The most challenging aspect of developing a green hydrogen economy is long-distance oceanic transportation. Hydrogen liquefaction is a transportation alternative. However the cost and energy consumption for liquefaction is currently prohibitively high creating a major barrier to hydrogen supply chains. This paper proposes using solid nitrogen or oxygen as a medium for recycling cold energy across the hydrogen liquefaction supply chain. When a liquid hydrogen (LH2) carrier reaches its destination the regasification process of the hydrogen produces solid nitrogen or oxygen. The solid nitrogen or oxygen is then transported in the LH2 carrier back to the hydrogen liquefaction facility and used to reduce the energy consumption cooling gaseous hydrogen. As a result the energy required to liquefy hydrogen can be reduced by 25.4% using N2 and 27.3% using O2. Solid air hydrogen liquefaction (SAHL) can be the missing link for implementing a global hydrogen economy.
Feasibility Study on the Provision of Electricity and Hydrogen for Domestic Purposes in the South of Iran using Grid-connected Renewable Energy Plants
Dec 2018
Publication
This work presents a feasibility study on the provision of electricity and hydrogen with renewable grid connected and off-the-grid systems for Bandar Abbas City in the south of Iran. The software HOMER Pro® has been used to perform the analysis. A techno-enviro-economic study comparing a hybrid system consisting of the grid/wind turbine and solar cell is done. The wind turbine is analyzed using four types of commercially available vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs). According to the literature review no similar study has been performed so far on the feasibility of using VAWTs and also no work exists on the use of a hybrid system in the studied area. The results indicated that the lowest price of providing the required hydrogen was $0.496 which was achieved using the main grid. Also the lowest price of the electricity generated was $1.55 which was obtained through using EOLO VAWT in the main grid/wind turbine/solar cell scenario. Also the results suggested that the highest rate of preventing CO2 emission which was also the lowest rate of using the national grid with 3484 kg/year was associated with EOLO wind turbines where only 4% of the required electricity was generated by the national grid.
The Impact of Sustainable Energy Technologies and Demand Response Programs on the Hub's Planning by the Practical Consideration of Tidal Turbines as a Novel Option
Apr 2023
Publication
This paper investigates a multi-objective optimal energy planning strategy for a hub incorporating renewable and non-renewable resources like PV tidal turbine fuel-cell CHP boiler micro-turbine reactor reformer electrolyzer and energy storage by utilizing the time of use program (TOU). In this strategy tidal turbine fuel-cell and reformer technologies are considered novel technologies that simultaneously reduce the proposed hub’s cost and pollution. The hub’s total cost and pollution are considered objective functions. To make the results more realistic characteristics of the tidal turbine are investigated by utilizing the manufactory’s company information. The problem is then modeled as real mixed integer programming (RMIP) and is solved in GAMS software using a CPLEX solver. Epsilon constraints method and fuzzy satisfying approach are used to select the optimal solution based on the proposed model. Finally a sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the effective parameters that affect the planning’s results. The results show that the overall pollution is reduced by about 9% by assuming the proposed planning and the total profit is increased by about 30%.
A Novel Sustainable Approach for Site Selection of Underground Hydrogen Storage in Poland Using Deep Learning
Jul 2024
Publication
This research investigates the potential of using bedded salt formations for underground hydrogen storage. We present a novel artificial intelligence framework that employs spatial data analysis and multi-criteria decision-making to pinpoint the most appropriate sites for hydrogen storage in salt caverns. This methodology incorporates a comprehensive platform enhanced by a deep learning algorithm specifically a convolutional neural network (CNN) to generate suitability maps for rock salt deposits for hydrogen storage. The efficacy of the CNN algorithm was assessed using metrics such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE) Mean Squared Error (MSE) Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and the Correlation Coefficient (R2 ) with comparisons made to a real-world dataset. The CNN model showed outstanding performance with an R2 of 0.96 MSE of 1.97 MAE of 1.003 and RMSE of 1.4. This novel approach leverages advanced deep learning techniques to offer a unique framework for assessing the viability of underground hydrogen storage. It presents a significant advancement in the field offering valuable insights for a wide range of stakeholders and facilitating the identification of ideal sites for hydrogen storage facilities thereby supporting informed decisionmaking and sustainable energy infrastructure development.
Mapping Local Green Hydrogen Cost-potentials by a Multidisciplinary Approach
Sep 2024
Publication
S. Ishmam,
Heidi Heinrichs,
C. Winkler,
B. Bayat,
Amin Lahnaoui,
Solomon Nwabueze Agbo,
E.U. Pena Sanchez,
David Franzmann,
N. Oijeabou,
C. Koerner,
Y. Michael,
B. Oloruntoba,
C. Montzka,
H. Vereecken,
H. Hendricks Franssen,
J. Brendtf,
S. Brauner,
W. Kuckshinrichs,
S. Venghaus,
Daouda Kone,
Bruno Korgo,
Kehinde Olufunso Ogunjobi,
V. Chiteculo,
Jane Olwoch,
Z. Getenga,
Jochen Linßen and
Detlef Stolten
For fast-tracking climate change response green hydrogen is key for achieving greenhouse gas neutral energy systems. Especially Sub-Saharan Africa can benefit from it enabling an increased access to clean energy through utilizing its beneficial conditions for renewable energies. However developing green hydrogen strategies for Sub-Saharan Africa requires highly detailed and consistent information ranging from technical environmental economic and social dimensions which is currently lacking in literature. Therefore this paper provides a comprehensive novel approach embedding the required range of disciplines to analyze green hydrogen costpotentials in Sub-Saharan Africa. This approach stretches from a dedicated land eligibility based on local preferences a location specific renewable energy simulation locally derived sustainable groundwater limitations under climate change an optimization of local hydrogen energy systems and a socio-economic indicator-based impact analysis. The capability of the approach is shown for case study regions in Sub-Saharan Africa highlighting the need for a unified interdisciplinary approach.
Techno-economic Analysis of Stand-alone Hybrid PV-Hydrogen-Based Plug-in Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Sep 2024
Publication
The increase in the feasibility of hydrogen-based generation makes it a promising addition to the realm of renewable energies that are being employed to address the issue of electric vehicle charging. This paper presents technical and an economical approach to evaluate a newer off-grid hybrid PV-hydrogen energy-based recharging station in the city of Jamshoro Pakistan to meet the everyday charging needs of plug-in electric vehicles. The concept is designed and simulated by employing HOMER software. Hybrid PV-hydrogen and PV-hydrogenbattery are the two different scenarios that are carried out and compared based on their both technical as well as financial standpoints. The simulation results are evident that the hybrid PV- hydrogen-battery energy system has much more financial and economic benefits as compared with the PV-hydrogen energy system. Moreover it is also seen that costs of energy from earlier from hybrid PV-hydrogen-battery is more appealing i.e. 0.358 $/kWh from 0.412 $/kWh cost of energy from hybrid PV-hydrogen. The power produced by the hybrid PV- hydrogen - battery energy for the daily load demand of 1700 kWh /day consists of two powers produced independently by the PV and fuel cells of 87.4 % and 12.6 % respectively.
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.
Detailed Analysis of a Pure Hydrogen-fueled Dual-fuel Engine in Terms of Performance and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Sep 2024
Publication
The current study seeks to greenhouse gas emissions reduction in an existing engine under dual-fuel combustion fueled with diesel fuel and natural gas due to great concerns about global warming. This simulation study focuses on the identification of areas prone to the formation of greenhouse gas emissions in engine cylinders. The simulation results of dual-fuel combustion confirmed that the possibility of incomplete combustion and the formation of greenhouse gas emissions in high levels are not far from expected. Therefore an efficient combustion strategy along with replacing natural gas with hydrogen was considered. Only changing the combustion mode to reactivity-controlled compression ignition has led to the improvement of the natural gas burning rate and guarantees a 32 % reduction in unburned methane and 50 % carbon monoxide. To further reduce engine emissions while changing the combustion mode a part of natural gas replacement with hydrogen to the complete elimination of it was evaluated. Increasing the share of hydrogen energy in the intake air-natural gas mixture up to 54 % without exhaust gas recirculation does not lead to diesel knock. Moreover improvement of engine load and efficiency can be achieved by up to 18 % and 6 % respectively. Natural gas consumption can be reduced by up to 67 %. Meanwhile the unburned methane and carbon dioxide mass known as greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced to less than 1 % and up to 50 % respectively. Continued replacement of natural gas with hydrogen until its complete elimination guarantees a reduction of 92000 cubic meters of natural gas per year in one engine cylinder. Although the engine efficiency and load face a decrease of 0.8 % and 5.0 % respectively; the amount of carbon dioxide can be decreased by about 4.5 times. Unburned methane carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides can be reduced to below the relevant EURO VI range while the amount of unburned hydrogen compared to the hydrogen entering the engine is about 0.5 %.
Comprehensive Optimisation of an Integrated Energy System for Power, Hydrogen, and Freshwater Generation Using High-temperature PEM Fuel Cell
Feb 2024
Publication
Modern energy conversion technologies with low or no emissions are needed to achieve sustainable development goals. This research examines the thermodynamic and exergy-economic features of a high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell. A cutting-edge integrated energy system uses high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells an organic Rankine cycle a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer and a multi-effect desalination unit. This setup generates electricity hydrogen and fresh water. Methanol-steam reformation produces hydrogen for the fuel cell. The recommended cycle drives an organic Rankine power producing cycle using 120-200 °C waste heat from hightemperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell to power water electrolysis and hydrogen generation. An integrated method incorporates energy and exergy balances and cost analysis to assess the proposed system's exergetic economic and environmental impacts. The suggested integration delivers high energy and exergy efficiency at an acceptable cost and environmental effect. According to parametric research boosting the fuel cell's working temperature decreases production costs and carbon dioxide emissions per mass. Raising current density has positive technical and environmental impacts. As the current density increases from 0.4 to 0.8 (A/cm2 ) the net power generation increases to 46.67% and the exergy efficiency increases from 64.5% to 68%. An increase in multi-effect distillation motivate steam pressure from 200 to 600 kPa results in an increase in the daily freshwater generated from 111.68 m3 to 116.41 m3 . For environmental protection and output optimization fuel utilization ratio must be reduced. The ideal system's exergy efficiency product unit cost and environmental impact are 65.78% 86.28 ($/h) and 4.33% respectively.
Comprehensive Review of Carbon Capture and Storage Integration in Hydrogen Production: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Oct 2024
Publication
The growing emphasis on renewable energy highlights hydrogen’s potential as a clean energy carrier. However traditional hydrogen production methods contribute significantly to carbon emissions. This review examines the integration of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies with hydrogen production processes focusing on their ability to mitigate carbon emissions. It evaluates various hydrogen production techniques including steam methane reforming electrolysis and biomass gasification and discusses how CCS can enhance environmental sustainability. Key challenges such as economic technical and regulatory obstacles are analyzed. Case studies and future trends offer insights into the feasibility of CCS–hydrogen integration providing pathways for reducing greenhouse gases and facilitating a clean energy transition.
Hydrogen as an Energy Source: A Review of Production Technologies and Challenges of Fuel Cell Vehicles
Oct 2024
Publication
The significant growth of both the global population and economy in recent years has led to a rise in global energy demand. Fossil fuels have a significant contribution to generating energy which has raised concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. There are widespread efforts to find alternative sources in order to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate their environmental consequences. Among the alternative sources hydrogen has emerged as a promising option due to its potential to be a clean and sustainable energy source. Hydrogen possesses several advantages such as a high calorific value a high reaction rate various sources and the ability to integrate with other renewable energy sources and existing systems. These attributes render hydrogen a stable and reliable energy resource which can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and transition towards a sustainable future. In this review paper distinct hydrogen production technologies such as conventional renewable and nuclear energy are investigated and compared. In addition the challenges and limitations of the application of hydrogen fuel cells on vehicles and hydrogen circulation components are explored. Finally the environmental impact of hydrogen vehicles specifically their role in promoting sustainable development is investigated.
Techno-economic Assessment of Hydrogen-based Energy Storage Systems in Determining the Optimal Configuration of the Nuclear-renewable Hybrid Energy System
Apr 2024
Publication
Population growth and economic development have significantly increased global energy demand. Hence it has raised concerns about the increase in the consumption of fossil fuels and climate change. The present work introduced a new approach to using carbon-free energy sources such as nuclear and renewable to meet energy demand. The idea of using the Nuclear-Renewable Hybrid Energy System (N-R HES) is suggested as a leading solution that couples a nuclear power plant with renewable energy and hydrogen-based storage systems. For this purpose using a meta-heuristic method based on Newton’s laws the configuration of the N-R HES is optimized from an economic and reliability point of view. The optimal system is selected from among six cases with different subsystems such as wind turbine photovoltaic panel nuclear reactor electrolysis fuel cell and hydrogen storage tank. Furthermore the performance of hydrogen-based energy storage systems such as hightemperature electrolysis (HTE) and low-temperature electrolysis (LTE) is evaluated from technical and economic aspects. The results of this work showed that using nuclear energy to supply the base load increases the reliability of the system and reduces the loss of power supply probability to zero. More than 70 % of the power is produced by nuclear reactors which includes more than 80 % of the system costs. The key findings showed that despite HTE’s higher efficiency using LTE as a storage system in N-R HES is more cost-effective. Finally due to recent developments and the safer design of nuclear reactors they can play an important role in combination with renewable energies to support carbon-free energy sectors especially in remote areas for decades to come.
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