Integration of Underground Green Hydrogen Storage in Hybrid Energy Generation

One of the major challenges in harnessing energy from renewable sources like wind and solar is their intermittent nature. Energy production from these sources can vary based on weather conditions and time of day, making it essential to store surplus energy for later use when there is a shortfall. Energy storage systems play a crucial role in addressing this intermittency issue and ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply. Green hydrogen, sourced from renewables, emerges as a promising solution to meet the rising demand for sustainable energy, addressing the depletion of fossil fuels and environmental crises. In the present study, underground hydrogen storage in various geological formations (aquifers, depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs, salt caverns) is examined, emphasizing the need for a detailed geological analysis and addressing potential hazards. The paper discusses challenges associated with underground hydrogen storage, including the requirement for extensive studies to understand hydrogen interactions with microorganisms. It underscores the importance of the issue, with a focus on reviewing the the various past and present hydrogen storage projects and sites, as well as reviewing the modeling studies in this field. The paper also emphasizes the importance of incorporating hybrid energy systems into hydrogen storage to overcome limitations associated with standalone hydrogen storage systems. It further explores the past and future integrations of underground storage of green hydrogen within this dynamic energy landscape.