Scenario-Based Techno-Economic Analysis of Steam Methane Reforming Process for Hydrogen Production

Steam methane reforming (SMR) process is regarded as a viable option to satisfy the growing demand for hydrogen, mainly because of its capability for the mass production of hydrogen and the maturity of the technology. In this study, an economically optimal process configuration of SMR is proposed by investigating six scenarios with different design and operating conditions, including CO₂ emission permits and CO₂ capture and sale. Of the six scenarios, the process configuration involving CO₂ capture and sale is the most economical, with an H₂ production cost of $1.80/kg-H₂. A wide range of economic analyses is performed to identify the tradeoffs and cost drivers of the SMR process in the economically optimal scenario. Depending on the CO₂ selling price and the CO₂ capture cost, the economic feasibility of the SMR-based H₂ production process can be further improved.