Applications & Pathways
Energy Hub Model for the Massive Adoption of Hydrogen in Power Systems
Sep 2024
Publication
A promising energy carrier and storage solution for integrating renewable energies into the power grid currently being investigated is hydrogen produced via electrolysis. It already serves various purposes but it might also enable the development of hydrogen-based electricity storage systems made up of electrolyzers hydrogen storage systems and generators (fuel cells or engines). The adoption of hydrogen-based technologies is strictly linked to the electrification of end uses and to multicarrier energy grids. This study introduces a generic method to integrate and optimize the sizing and operation phases of hydrogen-based power systems using an energy hub optimization model which can manage and coordinate multiple energy carriers and equipment. Furthermore the uncertainty related to renewables and final demands was carefully assessed. A case study on an urban microgrid with high hydrogen demand for mobility demonstrates the method’s applicability showing how the multi-objective optimization of hydrogen-based power systems can reduce total costs primary energy demand and carbon equivalent emissions for both power grids and mobility down to −145%. Furthermore the adoption of the uncertainty assessment can give additional benefits allowing a downsizing of the equipment.
Multi-Objective Parameter Configuration Optimization of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hybrid Power System for Locomotives
Sep 2024
Publication
Conventional methods of parameterizing fuel cell hybrid power systems (FCHPS) often rely on engineering experience which leads to problems such as increased economic costs and excessive weight of the system. These shortcomings limit the performance of FCHPS in real-world applications. To address these issues this paper proposes a novel method for optimizing the parameter configuration of FCHPS. First the power and energy requirements of the vehicle are determined through traction calculations and a real-time energy management strategy is used to ensure efficient power distribution. On this basis a multi-objective parameter configuration optimization model is developed which comprehensively considers economic cost and system weight and uses a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to determine the optimal configuration of each power source. The optimization results show that the system economic cost is reduced by 8.76% and 18.05% and the weight is reduced by 11.47% and 9.13% respectively compared with the initial configuration. These results verify the effectiveness of the proposed optimization strategy and demonstrate its potential to improve the overall performance of the FCHPS.
Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emission Electrified Aircraft Propulsion for Large Commercial Transport
Sep 2024
Publication
Until recently electrified aircraft propulsion (EAP) technology development has been driven by the dual objectives of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and addressing the depletion of fossil fuels. However the increasing severity of climate change posing a significant threat to all life forms has resulted in the global consensus of achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. This major shift has alerted the aviation electrification industry to consider the following: What is the clear path forward for EAP technology development to support the net-zero GHG goals for large commercial transport aviation? The purpose of this paper is to answer this question. After identifying four types of GHG emissions that should be used as metrics to measure the effectiveness of each technology for GHG reduction the paper presents three significant categories of GHG reduction efforts regarding the engine evaluates the potential of EAP technologies within each category as well as combinations of technologies among the different categories using the identified metrics and thus determines the path forward to support the net-zero GHG objective. Specifically the paper underscores the need for the aviation electrification industry to adapt adjust and integrate its EAP technology development into the emerging new engine classes. These innovations and collaborations are crucial to accelerate net-zero GHG efforts effectively.
Cost-optimal Design and Operation of Hydrogen Refueling Stations with Mechanical and Electrochemical Hydrogen Compressors
Sep 2024
Publication
Hydrogen refueling stations (HRS) can cause a significant fraction of the hydrogen refueling cost. The main cost contributor is the currently used mechanical compressor. Electrochemical hydrogen compression (EHC) has recently been proposed as an alternative. However its optimal integration in an HRS has yet to be investigated. In this study we compare the performance of a gaseous HRS equipped with different compressors. First we develop dynamic models of three process configurations which differ in the compressor technology: mechanical vs. electrochemical vs. combined. Then the design and operation of the compressors are optimized by solving multi-stage dynamic optimization problems. The optimization results show that the three configurations lead to comparable hydrogen dispensing costs because the electrochemical configuration exhibits lower capital cost but higher energy demand and thus operating cost than the mechanical configuration. The combined configuration is a trade-off with intermediate capital and operating cost.
Towards the Design of a Hydrogen-powered Ferry for Cleaner Passenger Transport
Aug 2024
Publication
The maritime transportation sector is a large and growing contributor of greenhouse gas and other emissions. Therefore stringent measures have been taken by the International Maritime Organization to mitigate the environmental impact of the international shipping. These lead to the adoption of new technical solutions involving clean fuels such as hydrogen and high efficiency propulsion technologies that is fuel cells. In this framework this paper proposes a methodological approach aimed at supporting the retrofit design process of a car-passenger ferry operating in the Greece’s western maritime zone whose conventional powertrain is replaced with a fuel cell hybrid system. To this aim first the energy/power requirements and the expected hydrogen consumption of the vessel are determined basing on a typical operational profile retrieved from data provided by the shipping company. Three hybrid powertrain configurations are then proposed where fuel cell and batteries are balanced out according to different design criteria. Hence a new vessel layout is defined for each of the considered options by taking into account on-board weight and space constraints to allocate the components of the new hydrogen-based propulsion systems. Finally the developed vessel configurations are simulated in a virtual towing tank environment in order to assess their hydrodynamic response and compare them with the original one thus providing crucial insights for the design process of new hydrogen-fueled vessel solutions. Findings from this study reveal that the hydrogen-based configurations of the vessel are all characterized by a slight reduction of the payload mainly due to the space required to allocate the hydrogen storage system; instead the hydrodynamic behavior of the H2 powered vessels is found to be similar to the one of the original Diesel configuration; also from a hydrodynamic point of view the results show that mid load operating conditions get relevance for the design process of the hybrid vessels.
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 %.
Advances in Hospital Energy Systems: Genetic Algorithm Optimization of a Hybrid Solar and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Combined Heat and Power
Sep 2024
Publication
This paper presents an innovative Fuel Cell Combined Heat and Power (FC–CHP) system designed to enhance energy efficiency in hospital settings. The system primarily utilizes solar energy captured through photovoltaic (PV) panels for electricity generation. Excess electricity is directed to an electrolyzer for water electrolysis producing hydrogen which is stored in high-pressure tanks. This hydrogen serves a dual purpose: it fuels a boiler for heating and hot water needs and powers a fuel cell for additional electricity when solar production is low. The system also features an intelligent energy management system that dynamically allocates electrical energy between immediate consumption hydrogen production and storage while also managing hydrogen release for energy production. This study focuses on optimization using genetic algorithms to optimize key components including the peak power of photovoltaic panels the nominal power of the electrolyzer fuel cell and storage tank sizes. The objective function minimizes the sum of investment and electricity costs from the grid considering a penalty coefficient. This approach ensures optimal use of renewable energy sources contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability in healthcare facilities.
Research on the Dynamic Energy Conversion and Transmission Model of Renewable Energy DC Off-grid Hydrogen System
Sep 2024
Publication
The dynamic response characteristics between the multiple energy flows of electricity-hydrogen-heat in the renewable energy DC off-grid hydrogen production system are highly coupled and nonlinear which leads to the complexity of its energy conversion and transmission law. This study proposes a model to describe the dynamic nonlinear energy conversion and transmission laws specific to such systems. The model develops a nonlinear admittance framework and a conversion characteristic matrix for multi-heterogeneous energy flow subsystems based on the operational characteristics of each subsystem within the DC off-grid hydrogen production system. Building upon this foundation an energy hub model for the hydrogen production system is established yielding the electrical thermal and hydrogen energy outputs along with their respective conversion efficiencies for each subsystem. By discretizing time the energy flow at each time node within the hydrogen production system is computed revealing the system’s dynamic energy transfer patterns. Experiments were conducted using measured wind speed and irradiance data from a specific location in eastern China. Results from selected typical days were analyzed and discussed revealing that subsystem characteristics exhibit nonlinear variation patterns. This highlights the limitations of traditional models in accurately capturing these dynamics. Finally a simulation platform incorporating practical control methods was constructed to validate the model’s accuracy. Validation results demonstrate that the model possesses high accuracy providing a solid theoretical foundation for further in-depth analysis of DC off-grid hydrogen production systems.
Hydrogen Propulsion Systems for Aircraft, a Review on Recent Advances and Ongoing Challenges
Oct 2024
Publication
Air transportation contributes significantly to harmful and greenhouse gas emissions. To combat these issues there has been a recent emergence of aircraft electrification as a potential solution to mitigate environmental concerns and address fuel shortages. However current technologies related to batteries electric machinery and power systems are still in the developmental phase to meet the requirements for power and energy density weight safety and reliability. In the interim there is a focus on the more electric and hybrid electric propulsion systems for aircraft. Hydrogen with its high specific energy and carbon-free characteristics stands out as a promising alternative fuel for aviation. This paper is centred on the application of hydrogen in aircraft propulsion mainly fuel cell hybrid electric (FCHE) propulsion systems. Furthermore application of hydrogen as a fuel for the aircraft propulsion systems is considered. A comprehensive overview of the hydrogen propulsion systems in aviation is presented with an emphasis on the technical aspects crucial for creating a more sustainable and efficient air transportation sector. Additionally the paper acknowledges the technical and regulatory challenges that must be addressed to attain these goals.
A Review on Liquid Hydrogen Fuel Systems in Aircraft Applications for Gas Turbine Engines
Oct 2024
Publication
The transition from traditional aviation fuels to low-emission alternatives such as hydrogen is a crucial step towards a sustainable future for aviation. Conventional jet fuels substantially contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Hydrogen fuel especially "green" hydrogen offers great potential for achieving full sustainability in aviation. Hybrid/electric/fuel cell technologies may be used for shorter flights while longrange aircraft are more likely to combust hydrogen in gas turbines. Liquid hydrogen is necessary to minimize storage tank weight but the required fuel systems are at a low technology readiness level and differ significantly from Jet A-1 systems in architecture operation and performance. This paper provides an in-depth review covering the development of liquid hydrogen fuel system design concepts for gas turbines since the 1950s compares insights from key projects such as NASA studies and ENABLEH2 alongside an analysis of recent publications and patent applications and identifies the technological advancements required for achieving zeroemission targets through hydrogen-fuelled propulsion.
Environmental Benefits of Hydrogen-Powered Buses: A Case Study of Coke Oven Gas
Oct 2024
Publication
This study conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of alternative (electric and hydrogen) and conventional diesel buses in a large metropolitan area. The primary focus was on hydrogen derived from coke oven gas a byproduct of the coking process which is a crucial step in the steel production value chain. The functional unit was 1000000 km traveled over 15 years. LCA analysis using SimaPro v9.3 revealed significant environmental differences between the bus types. Hydrogen buses outperformed electric buses in all 11 environmental impact categories and in 5 of 11 categories compared to conventional diesel buses. The most substantial improvements for hydrogen buses were observed in ozone depletion (8.6% of diesel buses) and global warming (29.9% of diesel buses). As a bridge to a future dominated by green hydrogen employing grey hydrogen from coke oven gas in buses provides a practical way to decrease environmental harm in regions abundant with this resource. This interim solution can significantly contribute to climate policy goals.
Fuzzy Logic-Based Energy Management Strategy for Hybrid Fuel Cell Electric Ship Power and Propulsion System
Oct 2024
Publication
The growing use of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) in hybrid propulsion systems is aimed at replacing traditional internal combustion engines and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Effective power distribution between the fuel cell and the energy storage system (ESS) is crucial and has led to a growing emphasis on developing energy management systems (EMSs) to efficiently implement this integration. To address this goal this study examines the performance of a fuzzy logic rule-based strategy for a hybrid fuel cell propulsion system in a small hydrogenpowered passenger vessel. The primary objective is to optimize fuel efficiency with particular attention on reducing hydrogen consumption. The analysis is carried out under typical operating conditions encountered during a river trip. Comparisons between the proposed strategy with other approaches—control based optimization based and deterministic rule based—are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. Simulation results indicated that the EMS based on fuzzy logic mechanisms was the most successful in reducing fuel consumption. The superior performance of this method stems from its ability to adaptively manage power distribution between the fuel cell and energy storage systems.
Closed Loop Model Predictive Control of a Hybrid Battery-Hydrogen Energy Storage System using Mixed-Integer Linear Programming
Mar 2024
Publication
The derivation of an efficient operational strategy for storing intermittent renewable energies using a hybrid battery-hydrogen energy storage system is a difficult task. One approach for deriving an efficient operational strategy is using mathematical optimization in the context of model predictive control. However mathematical optimization derives an operational strategy based on a non-exact mathematical system representation for a specified prediction horizon to optimize a specified target. Thus the resulting operational strategies can vary depending on the optimization settings. This work focuses on evaluating potential improvements in the operational strategy for a hybrid batteryhydrogen energy storage system using mathematical optimization. To investigate the operation a simulation model of a hybrid energy storage system and a tailor-made mixed integer linear programming optimization model of this specific system are utilized in the context of a model predictive control framework. The resulting operational strategies for different settings of the model predictive control framework are compared to a rule-based controller to show the potential benefits of model predictive control compared to a conventional approach. Furthermore an in-depth analysis of different factors that impact the effectiveness of the model predictive controller is done. Therefore a sensitivity analysis of the effect of different electricity demands and resource sizes on the performance relative to a rule-based controller is conducted. The model predictive controller reduced the energy consumption by at least 3.9 % and up to 17.9% compared to a rule-based controller. Finally Pareto fronts for multi-objective optimizations with different prediction and control horizons are derived and compared to the results of a rule-based controller. A cost reduction of up to 47 % is achieved by a model predictive controller with a prediction horizon of 7 days and perfect foresight. Keywords: Model Predictive Control Optimization Mixed Integer Linear Programming Hybrid Battery-Hydrogen Energy Storage System
Technical and Cost Analysis of Zero-emission High-speed Ferries: Retrofitting from Diesel to Green Hydrogen
Feb 2024
Publication
This paper proposes a technical and cost analysis model to assess the change in costs of a zeroemission high-speed ferry when retrofitting from diesel to green hydrogen. Both compressed gas and liquid hydrogen are examined. Different scenarios explore energy demand energy losses fuel consumption and cost-effectiveness. The methodology explores how variation in the ferry's total weight and equipment efficiency across scenarios impact results. Applied to an existing diesel high-speed ferry on one of Norway's longest routes the study under certain assumptions identifies compressed hydrogen gas as the current most economical option despite its higher energy consumption. Although the energy consumption of the compressed hydrogen ferry is slightly more than the liquid hydrogen counterpart its operating expenses are considerably lower and comparable to the existing diesel ferry on the route. However constructing large hydrogen liquefaction plants could reduce liquid hydrogen's cost and make it competitive with both diesel and compressed hydrogen gas. Moreover liquid hydrogen allows the use of a superconducting motor to enhance efficiency. Operating the ferry with liquid hydrogen and a superconducting motor besides its technical advantages offers promising economic viability in the future comparable to diesel and compressed hydrogen gas options. Reducing the ferry's speed and optimizing equipment improves fuel efficiency and economic viability. This research provides valuable insights into sustainable zero-emission high-speed ferries powered by green hydrogen.
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.
Net Zero Fuel (Mixed Hydrogen and Biofuels) Cement Clinker: Characterisation, Microstructure, and Performance
Oct 2024
Publication
Over 35% of the CO2 associated with cement production comes from operational energy. The cement industry needs alternative fuels to meet its net zero emissions target. This study investigated the influence of hydrogen mixed with biofuels herein designated net zero fuel as an alternative to coal on the clinker quality and performance of cement produced in an industrial cement plant. Scanning electron microscopy X-ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance were coupled to study the clinker mineralogy and polymorphs. Hydration and microstructure development in plain and slag blended cements based on the clinker were compared to commercial cement equivalent. The results revealed a lower alite/belite ratio but a significant proportion of the belite was of the α’H-C2S polymorph. These reacted faster and compensated for the alite/belite ratio. Gel and micro-capillary pores were densified which reduced total porosity and attained comparable strength to the reference plain and blended cement. This study demonstrates that the investigated net zero fuel-produced clinker meets compositional and strength requirements for plain and blended cement providing a feasible pathway for the cement industry to lower its operational carbon significantly.
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.
Exploring Decarbonization Priorities for Sustainable Shipping: A Natural Language Processing-based Experiment
Oct 2024
Publication
The shipping industry is currently the sixth largest contributor to global emissions responsible for one billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Urgent action is needed to achieve carbon neutrality in the shipping industry for sustainability. In this paper we use natural language processing techniques to analyze policies announcements and position papers from national and international organizations related to the decarbonization of shipping. In particular we perform the analysis using a novel matrix-based corpus and a fine-tuned machine learning model BERTopic. Our research suggests that the top four priorities for decarbonizing shipping are preventing emissions from methane leaks promoting non-carbon-based hydrogen implementing reusable modular containers to reduce packaging waste in container shipping and protecting Arctic biodiversity while promoting the Arctic shipping route to reduce costs. Our study highlights the validity of NLP techniques in quantitatively extracting critical information related to the decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Integrated Home Energy Management with Hybrid Backup Storage and Vehicle-to-Home Systems for Enhanced Resilience, Efficiency, and Energy Independence in Green Buildings
Sep 2024
Publication
This study presents an innovative home energy management system (HEMS) that incorporates PV WTs and hybrid backup storage systems including a hydrogen storage system (HSS) a battery energy storage system (BESS) and electric vehicles (EVs) with vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology. The research conducted in Liaoning Province China evaluates the performance of the HEMS under various demand response (DR) scenarios aiming to enhance resilience efficiency and energy independence in green buildings. Four DR scenarios were analyzed: No DR 20% DR 30% DR and 40% DR. The findings indicate that implementing DR programs significantly reduces peak load and operating costs. The 40% DR scenario achieved the lowest cumulative operating cost of $749.09 reflecting a 2.34% reduction compared with the $767.07 cost in the No DR scenario. The integration of backup systems particularly batteries and fuel cells (FCs) effectively managed energy supply ensuring continuous power availability. The system maintained a low loss of power supply probability (LPSP) indicating high reliability. Advanced optimization techniques particularly the reptile search algorithm (RSA) are crucial in enhancing system performance and efficiency. These results underscore the potential of hybrid backup storage systems with V2H technology to enhance energy independence and sustainability in residential energy management.
Design Trends and Challenges in Hydrogen Direct Injection (H2DI) Internal Combustion Engines - A Review
Sep 2024
Publication
The hydrogen internal combustion engine (H2-ICE) is proposed as a robust and viable solution to decarbonise the heavy-duty on- and off-road as well as the light-duty automotive sectors of the transportation markets and is therefore the subject of rapidly growing research interest. With the potential for engine performance improvement by controlling the internal mixture formation and avoiding combustion anomalies hydrogen direct injection (H2DI) is a promising combustion mode. Furthermore the H2-ICE poses an attractive proposition for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and their suppliers since the fundamental base engine design components and manufacturing processes are largely unchanged. Nevertheless to deliver the highest thermal efficiency and zero-harm levels of tailpipe emissions moderate adaptations are needed to the engine control air path fuel injection and ignition systems. Therefore in this article critical design features fuel-air mixing combustion regimes and exhaust after-treatment systems (EATS) for H2DI engines are carefully assessed.
A Perspective on Emerging Energy Policy and Economic Research Agenda for Enabling Aviation Climate Action
Sep 2024
Publication
Due to the aviation energy sector's increasing contribution to climate change and the impact of climate change on the aviation sector determining key energy policy and economic research priorities for enabling an effective and equitable aviation climate action is becoming an increasingly important topic. In this perspective we address this research need using a four-pronged methodology. It includes (i) identifying topical matters highlighted in the media (news); (ii) formulating novel and feasible policy and economic research challenges that pertain to these contemporary issues; (iii) cross-referencing the proposed research challenges with academic literature to confirm their novelty and refining them as necessary; and (iv) validating the importance novelty and feasibility of these research challenges through consultation with a diverse group of aviation experts in fuel policy technology and infrastructure fields. Our results highlight twelve main themes. Among these the top emerging policy and economic research challenges as prioritized by expert input are – (i) frameworks for equitable responsibility allocation between developed and developing country airlines for future emissions; (ii) cost analysis of airlines' net-zero by 2050 commitments; (iii) effectiveness and opportunity cost of airlines investing in offsetting relative to reduction measures; (iv) EU aviation policies' historical and potential effects on airfares demand emissions EU air carriers' competitiveness passenger traffic through EU hubs regional economies and social climate funds' ability to mitigate distributional effects of EU aviation policies. These identified priorities can steer both industry and academic research toward creating practical recommendations for policymakers and industry participants. When it comes to future research the ever-changing nature of the challenges in achieving aviation climate action means that our findings might need regular updates.
Total Cost of Ownership Analysis for Hydrogen and Battery Powertrains: A Comparative Study in Finnish Heavy-duty Transport
Sep 2024
Publication
The road transport sector is one of the major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions as it still largely relies on traditional powertrain solutions. While some progress has been made in the passenger car sector with the diffusion of battery electric vehicles heavy-duty transport remains predominantly dependent on diesel internal combustion engines. This research aims to evaluate and compare three potential solutions for the decarbonisation of heavy-duty freight transport from an economic perspective: Battery Electric Trucks (BETs) Fuel Cell Electric Trucks (FCETs) and Hydrogen-fuelled Internal Combustion Engine Trucks (H2ICETs). The study focuses on the Finnish market and road network where affordable and low-carbon electricity creates an ideal environment for the development of alternative powertrain vehicles. The analysis employs the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) method which allows for a comprehensive assessment of all cost components associated with the vehicles throughout their entire lifecycle encompassing both initial expenses and operational costs. Among the several factors affecting the results the impact of the three powertrain technologies on the admissible payloads has been taken into account. The study specifically focuses on the costs directly incurred by the truck owner. Additionally to evaluate the cost effectiveness of the proposed powertrain technologies under different scenarios a sensitivity analysis on electricity and hydrogen prices is conducted. The outcomes of this study reveal that no single powertrain solution emerges as universally optimal as the most cost-effective choice depends strongly on the truck type and its use (i.e. daily mileage). For relatively small trucks (18 t) covering short driving distances (approximately 100 to 200 km/day) BETs prove to be the best solution due to their higher efficiency and lower vehicle costs compared to FCETs. Conversely for larger trucks (42 and 76 t) engaged in longer hauls (>300 km/day) H2ICETs exhibit larger cost benefits due to their lower vehicle costs among the three options under investigation. Finally for small trucks (18 t) travelling long distances (200 km/day or more) FCETs represent a competitive choice due to their high efficiency and costeffective energy storage system. Considering future advancements in FCETs and BETs in terms of improved performance and reduced investment cost the fuel cell-based solution is expected to emerge as the best option across various combinations of truck sizes and daily mileages.
Characterizing Hydrogen-diesel Dual-fuel Performance and Emissions in a Commercial Heavy-duty Diesel Truck
Sep 2024
Publication
This study investigates hydrogen (H2) as a supplementary fuel in heavy-duty diesel engines using pre-manifold injection. A H2-diesel dual-fuel (H2DF) system was implemented on a commercial class-8 heavy-duty diesel truck without modifying the original diesel injection system and engine control unit (ECU). Tests were conducted on a chassis dynamometer at engine speeds between 1000 and 1400 rpm with driver-demanded torques from 10 to 75%. The hydrogen energy fraction (HEF) was strategically controlled in the range between 10 and 30%. Overall CO2 reduction (comparable to the HEF level) was achieved with similar brake-specific energy consumption (BSEC) at all loads and speeds. To maintain the same shaft torque the driver-demanded torque was reduced in H2DF operation which resulted in a lower boost pressure. At higher loads engine-out BSNOx slightly decreased while BSCO and black carbon (BC) increased significantly due to lower oxygen concentration resulting from the lower boost pressure. At lower loads engine-out BSCO and BSBC decreased moderately while NO2/NO ratio increased substantially in H2DF operation. Deliberate air path and diesel injection control are expected to enable higher HEF and GHG reductions.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Hydrogen Consumption and Battery Cycle Optimization Using Bald Eagle Search Algorithm
Sep 2024
Publication
In this study the Bald Eagle Search Algorithm performed hydrogen consumption and battery cycle optimization of a fuel cell electric vehicle. To save time and cost the digital vehicle model created in Matlab/Simulink and validated with real-world driving data is the main platform of the optimization study. The digital vehicle model was run with the minimum and maximum battery charge states determined by the Bald Eagle Search Algorithm and hydrogen consumption and battery cycle values were obtained. By using the algorithm and digital vehicle model together hydrogen consumption was minimized and range was increased. It was aimed to extend the life of the parts by considering the battery cycle. At the same time the number of battery packs was included in the optimization and its effect on consumption was investigated. According to the study results the total hydrogen consumption of the fuel cell electric vehicle decreased by 57.8% in the hybrid driving condition 23.3% with two battery packs and 36.27% with three battery packs in the constant speed driving condition.
Comparative Study and Optimization of Energy Management Strategies for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
Sep 2024
Publication
Fuel cell hybrid systems due to their combination of the high energy density of fuel cells and the rapid response capability of power batteries have become an important category of new energy vehicles. This paper discusses energy management strategies in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Firstly a detailed comparative analysis of existing PID control strategies and Adaptive Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategies (A-ECMSs) is conducted. It was found that although A-ECMS can balance the energy utilization of the fuel cell and power battery well the power fluctuations of the fuel cell are significant leading to increased hydrogen consumption. Therefore this paper proposes an improved Adaptive Low-Pass Filter Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy (A-LPF-ECMS). By introducing low-pass filtering technology transient changes in fuel cell power are smoothed effectively reducing fuel consumption. Simulation results show that under the 6*FTP75 cycle the energy loss of A-LPF-ECMS is reduced by 10.89% (compared to the PID strategy) and the equivalent hydrogen consumption is reduced by 7.1%; under the 5*WLTC cycle energy loss is reduced by 5.58% and equivalent hydrogen consumption is reduced by 3.18%. The research results indicate that A-LPF-ECMS performs excellently in suppressing fuel cell power fluctuations under idling conditions significantly enhancing the operational efficiency of the fuel cell and showing high application value.
Empowering Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles Towards Sustainable Transportation: An Analytical Assessment, Emerging Energy Management, Key Issues, and Future Research Opportunities
Oct 2024
Publication
Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) have received significant attention in recent times due to various advantageous features such as high energy efficiency zero emissions and extended driving range. However FCEVs have some drawbacks including high production costs; limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure; and the complexity of converters controllers and method execution. To address these challenges smart energy management involving appropriate converters controllers intelligent algorithms and optimizations is essential for enhancing the effectiveness of FCEVs towards sustainable transportation. Therefore this paper presents emerging energy management strategies for FCEVs to improve energy efficiency system reliability and overall performance. In this context a comprehensive analytical assessment is conducted to examine several factors including research trends types of publications citation analysis keyword occurrences collaborations influential authors and the countries conducting research in this area. Moreover emerging energy management schemes are investigated with a focus on intelligent algorithms optimization techniques and control strategies highlighting contributions key findings issues and research gaps. Furthermore the state-of-the-art research domains of FCEVs are thoroughly discussed in order to explore various research domains relevant outcomes and existing challenges. Additionally this paper addresses open issues and challenges and offers valuable future research opportunities for advancing FCEVs emphasizing the importance of suitable algorithms controllers and optimization techniques to enhance their performance. The outcomes and key findings of this review will be helpful for researchers and automotive engineers in developing advanced methods control schemes and optimization strategies for FCEVs towards greener transportation.
The Influence of Gas Fuel Enrichment with Hydrogen on the Combustion Characteristics of Combustors: A Review
Oct 2024
Publication
Hydrogen is a promising fuel because it has good capabilities to operate gas turbines. Due to its ignition speed which exceeds the ignition of traditional fuel it achieves a higher thermal efficiency while the resulting emissions are low. So it was used as a clean and sustainable energy source. This paper reviews the most important research that was concerned with studying the characteristics of hydrogen combustion within incinerators and power generation equipment where hydrogen was used as a fuel mixed with traditional fuel in the combustion chambers of gas turbines. It also includes an evaluation of the combustion processes and flame formation resulting from the enrichment of gaseous fuels with hydrogen and partial oxidation. A large amount of theoretical and experimental work in this field has been reviewed. This review summarizes the predictive and experimental results of various research interests in the field of hydrogen combustion and also production.
Considering Carbon–Hydrogen Coupled Integrated Energy Systems: A Pathway to Sustainable Energy Transition in China Under Uncertainty
Oct 2024
Publication
The low-carbon construction of integrated energy systems is a crucial path to achieving dual carbon goals with the power-generation side having the greatest potential for emissions reduction and the most direct means of reduction which is a current research focus. However existing studies lack the precise modeling of carbon capture devices and the cascaded utilization of hydrogen energy. Therefore this paper establishes a carbon capture power plant model based on a comprehensive flexible operational mode and a coupled model of a two-stage P2G (Power-to-Gas) device exploring the “energy time-shift” characteristics of the coupled system. IGDT (Information Gap Decision Theory) is used to discuss the impact of uncertainties on the power generation side system. The results show that by promoting the consumption of clean energy and utilizing the high energy efficiency of hydrogen while reducing reliance on fossil fuels the proposed system not only meets current energy demands but also achieves a more efficient emission reduction laying a solid foundation for a sustainable future. By considering the impact of uncertainties the system ensures resilience and adaptability under fluctuating renewable energy supply conditions making a significant contribution to the field of sustainable energy transition.
Electrification or Hydrogen? The Challenge of Decarbonizing Industrial (High-Temperature) Process Heat
Oct 2024
Publication
The decarbonization of industrial process heat is one of the bigger challenges of the global energy transition. Process heating accounts for about 20% of final energy demand in Germany and the situation is similar in other industrialized nations around the globe. Process heating is indispensable in the manufacturing processes of products and materials encountered every day ranging from food beverages paper and textiles to metals ceramics glass and cement. At the same time process heating is also responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions as it is heavily dependent on fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal. Thus process heating needs to be decarbonized. This review article explores the challenges of decarbonizing industrial process heat and then discusses two of the most promising options the use of electric heating technologies and the substitution of fossil fuels with low-carbon hydrogen in more detail. Both energy carriers have their specific benefits and drawbacks that have to be considered in the context of industrial decarbonization but also in terms of necessary energy infrastructures. The focus is on high-temperature process heat (>400 ◦C) in energy-intensive basic materials industries with examples from the metal and glass industries. Given the heterogeneity of industrial process heating both electricity and hydrogen will likely be the most prominent energy carriers for decarbonized high-temperature process heat each with their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Hydrogen Engine Conversion Aspects
Oct 2024
Publication
The transition from traditional petrol-based combustion engines to hydrogen-powered systems represents a promising advancement in sustainable and clean energy solutions. This review paper explores the intricacies of converting a conventional internal combustion engine to operate on hydrogen gas. Key topics include the performance limitations of hydrogen engines the role of water injection in combustion modulation and the investigation of direct injection and port injection systems. This review also examines challenges associated with lean and rich mixtures risks of backfire and pre-ignition and the conversion’s overall impact on engine performance and longevity. Additionally this paper discusses hydrogen lubrication to prevent mechanical wear and addresses emission-related considerations.
Hydrogen Energy Systems: Technologies, Trends, and Future Prospects
May 2024
Publication
This review critically examines hydrogen energy systems highlighting their capacity to transform the global energy framework and mitigate climate change. Hydrogen showcases a high energy density of 120 MJ/kg providing a robust alternative to fossil fuels. Adoption at scale could decrease global CO2 emissions by up to 830 million tonnes annually. Despite its potential the expansion of hydrogen technology is curtailed by the inefficiency of current electrolysis methods and high production costs. Presently electrolysis efficiencies range between 60 % and 80 % with hydrogen production costs around $5 per kilogram. Strategic advancements are necessary to reduce these costs below $2 per kilogram and push efficiencies above 80 %. Additionally hydrogen storage poses its own challenges requiring conditions of up to 700 bar or temperatures below −253 °C. These storage conditions necessitate the development of advanced materials and infrastructure improvements. The findings of this study emphasize the need for comprehensive strategic planning and interdisciplinary efforts to maximize hydrogen's role as a sustainable energy source. Enhancing the economic viability and market integration of hydrogen will depend critically on overcoming these technological and infrastructural challenges supported by robust regulatory frameworks. This comprehensive approach will ensure that hydrogen energy can significantly contribute to a sustainable and low-carbon future.
Net-zero Energy Management through Multi-criteria Optimizations of a Hybrid Solar-Hydrogen Energy Production System for an Outdoor Laboratory in Toronto
Apr 2024
Publication
Hydrogen production and storage in hybrid systems is a promising solution for sustainable energy transition decoupling the energy generation from its end use and boosting the deployment of renewable energy. Nonetheless the optimal and cost-effective design of hybrid hydrogen-based systems is crucial to tackle existing limitations in diffusion of these systems. The present study explores net-zero energy management via a multi-objective optimization algorithm for an outdoor test facility equipped with a hydrogen-based hybrid energy production system. Aimed at enabling efficient integration of hydrogen fuel cell system the proposed solution attempts to maximize the renewable factor (RF) and carbon mitigation in the hybrid system as well as to minimize the grid dependency and the life cycle cost (LCC) of the system. In this context the techno-enviroeconomic optimization of the hybrid system is conducted by employing a statistical approach to identify optimal design variables and conflictive objective functions. To examine interactions in components of the hybrid system a series of dynamic simulations are carried out by developing a TRNSYS code coupled with the OpenStudio/EnergyPlus plugin. The obtained results indicate a striking disparity in the monthly RF values as well as the hydrogen production rate and therefore in the level of grid dependency. It is shown that the difference in LCC between optimization scenarios suggested by design of experiments could reach $15780 corresponding to 57% of the mean initial cost. The LCOE value yielded for optimum scenarios varies between 0.389 and 0.537 $/kWh. The scenario with net-zero target demonstrates the lowest LCOE value and the highest carbon mitigation i.e. 828 kg CO2/yr with respect to the grid supply case. However the LCC in this scenario exceeds $57370 which is the highest among all optimum scenarios. Furthermore it was revealed that the lowest RF in optimal scenarios is equal to 66.2% and belongs to the most economical solution.
Coupling Wastewater Treatment with Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Technology
Apr 2024
Publication
Fuel cells (FCs) and hydrogen technologies are emerging renewable energy sources with promising results when applied to wastewater treatment (WWT). These devices serve not only for power generation but some specific FCs can be employed for degradation of pollutants and synthesis of intermediates needed in WWT. Microbial FCs are potent devices for WWT even containing refractory pollutants. Despite being a nascent technology with high capital expenses the use of cost-effective materials reduction of operational cost and increased generation of energy and value-added chemicals such as hydrogen will facilitate the market penetration through selected niches and hybridization with alternative WWT technologies.
Towards Low-carbon Power Networks: Optimal Location and Sizing of Renewable Energy Sources and Hydrogen Storage
Apr 2024
Publication
This paper proposes a systematic optimization framework to jointly determine the optimal location and sizing decisions of renewables and hydrogen storage in a power network to achieve the transition to low-carbon networks efficiently. We obtain these strategic decisions based on the multi-period alternating current optimal power flow (AC MOPF) problem that jointly analyzes power network renewable and hydrogen storage interactions at the operational level by considering the uncertainty of renewable output seasonality of electricity demand and electricity prices. We develop a tailored solution approach based on second-order cone programming within a Benders decomposition framework to provide globally optimal solutions. In a test case we show that the joint integration of renewable sources and hydrogen storage and consideration of the AC MOPF model significantly reduces the operational cost of the power network. In turn our findings can provide quantitative insights to decision-makers on how to integrate renewable sources and hydrogen storage under different settings of the hydrogen selling price renewable curtailment cost emission tax price and conversion efficiency.
Advancing Hydrogen Gas Utilization in Industrial Boilers: Impacts on Critical Boiler Components, Mitigation Measures, and Future Perspectives
Sep 2024
Publication
This review sets out to investigate the detrimental impacts of hydrogen gas (H2 ) on critical boiler components and provide appropriate state-of-the-art mitigation measures and future research directions to advance its use in industrial boiler operations. Specifically the study focused on hydrogen embrittlement (HE) and high-temperature hydrogen attack (HTHA) and their effects on boiler components. The study provided a fundamental understanding of the evolution of these damage mechanisms in materials and their potential impact on critical boiler components in different operational contexts. Subsequently the review highlighted general and specific mitigation measures hydrogen-compatible materials (such as single-crystal PWA 1480E Inconel 625 and Hastelloy X) and hydrogen barrier coatings (such as TiAlN) for mitigating potential hydrogen-induced damages in critical boiler components. This study also identified strategic material selection approaches and advanced approaches based on computational modeling (such as phase-field modeling) and data-driven machine learning models that could be leveraged to mitigate potential equipment failures due to HE and HTHA under elevated H2 conditions. Finally future research directions were outlined to facilitate future implementation of mitigation measures material selection studies and advanced approaches to promote the extensive and sustainable use of H2 in industrial boiler operations.
Life Cycle Assessment Comparison of Orchard Tractors Powered by Diesel and Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Sep 2024
Publication
To reduce the impact of the agricultural sector on the environment human health and resource depletion several steps should be taken to develop innovative powertrain systems. The agricultural sector must be involved in this innovation since diesel-powered tractors are an important source in terms of pollution. In this context fuel-cell systems have gained importance making them one of the possible substitutes due to their characteristics featuring almost zero local emissions low refueling time and high efficiency. However to effectively assess the sustainability of a fuel-cell tractor a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment comprising production use phase and end of life must be performed. This article presents a comparative analysis according to different impact categories of the life cycle impacts of a traditional diesel-powered tractor and a fuel-cell hybrid tractor designed considering operative requirements and functional constraints. The study was conducted according to the LCA technique (defined by ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards) combining secondary data mainly derived from studies and reports available in the literature with the use of the Ecoinvent 3.0 database. The results are presented according to ten different impact categories defined by ReCiPe 2016 v 1.03 at the midpoint level. The findings obtained showed that the fuel-cell tractor allows for a relevant reduction in all the considered categories. The highest-impact reduction more than 92% was obtained in the human toxicity non-carcinogenic category while the lowest reduction around 4.55% was observed for the fossil fuel scarcity category mainly due to the adoption of gray hydrogen which is produced from fossil fuels. As for the climate change category the fuel-cell tractor showed a reduction of more than 34% in the life cycle impact. Finally the authors also considered the case of green hydrogen produced using solar energy. In this case further reductions in the impact on climate change and fossil fuel resource depletion were obtained. However for the other impact categories the results were worse compared to using gray hydrogen.
Potentials of Green Hydrogen Production in P2G Systems Based on FPV Installations Deployed on Pit Lakes in Former Mining Sites by 2050 in Poland
Sep 2024
Publication
Green hydrogen production is expected to play a major role in the context of the shift towards sustainable energy stipulated in the Fit for 55 package. Green hydrogen and its derivatives have the capacity to act as effective energy storage vectors while fuel cell-powered vehicles will foster net-zero emission mobility. This study evaluates the potential of green hydrogen production in Power-to-Gas (P2G) systems operated in former mining sites where sand and gravel aggregate has been extracted from lakes and rivers under wet conditions (below the water table). The potential of hydrogen production was assessed for the selected administrative unit in Poland the West Pomerania province. Attention is given to the legal and organisational aspects of operating mining companies to identify the sites suitable for the installation of floating photovoltaic facilities by 2050. The method relies on the use of GIS tools which utilise geospatial data to identify potential sites for investments. Basing on the geospatial model and considering technical and organisational constraints the schedule was developed showing the potential availability of the site over time. Knowing the surface area of the water reservoir the installed power of the floating photovoltaic plant and the production capacity of the power generation facility and electrolysers the capacity of hydrogen production in the P2G system can be evaluated. It appears that by 2050 it should be feasible to produce green fuel in the P2G system to support a fleet of city buses for two of the largest urban agglomerations in the West Pomerania province. Simulations revealed that with a water coverage ratio increase and the planned growth of green hydrogen generation it should be feasible to produce fuel for net-zero emission urban mobility systems to power 200 buses by 2030 550 buses by 2040 and 900 buses by 2050 (for the bus models Maxi (40 seats) and Mega (60 seats)). The results of the research can significantly contribute to the development of projects focused on the production of green hydrogen in a decentralised system. The disclosure of potential and available locations over time can be compared with competitive solutions in terms of spatial planning environmental and societal impact and the economics of the undertaking.
Techno-economic Assessment of Hydrogen Supply Solutions for Industrial Site
Sep 2024
Publication
In Austria one of the highest priorities of hydrogen usage lies in the industrial sector particularly as a feedstock and for high-temperature applications. Connecting hydrogen producers with consumers is challenging and requires comprehensive research to outline the advantages and challenges associated with various hydrogen supply options. This study focuses on techno-economic assessment of different supply solutions for industrial sites mainly depicted in two categories: providing hydrogen by transport means and via on-site production. The technologies needed for the investigation of these scenarios are identified based on the predictions of available technologies in near future (2030). The transportation options analyzed include delivering liquid hydrogen by truck liquid hydrogen by railway and gaseous hydrogen via pipeline. For on-site low-carbon hydrogen production a protonexchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis was selected as resent research suggests lower costs for PEM electrolysis compared to alkaline electrolysis (AEL). The frequency of deliveries and storage options vary by scenario and are determined by the industrial demand profile transport capacity and electrolyser production capacity. The assessment evaluates the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of each option considering factors such as infrastructure requirements energy efficiency and economic viability. At a hydrogen demand of 80 GWh the transport options indicate hydrogen supply costs in the range of 14–24 ct/kWh. In contrast the scenarios investigating on-site production of hydrogen show costs between 29 and 49 ct/ kWh. Therefore transport by truck rail or pipeline is economically advantageous to own-production under the specific assumptions and conditions. However the results indicate that as energy demand increases on-site production becomes more attractive. Additionally the influence of electricity prices and the hydrogen production/import price were identified as decisive factors for the overall hydrogen supply costs.
Hydrogen in Burners: Economic and Environmental Implications
Nov 2024
Publication
For centuries fossil fuels have been the primary energy source but their unchecked use has led to significant environmental and economic challenges that now shape the global energy landscape. The combustion of these fuels releases greenhouse gases which are critical contributors to the acceleration of climate change resulting in severe consequences for both the environment and human health. Therefore this article examines the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable alternative energy source capable of mitigating these climate impacts. It explores the properties of hydrogen with particular emphasis on its application in industrial burners and furnaces underscoring its clean combustion and high energy density in comparison to fossil fuels and also examines hydrogen production through thermochemical and electrochemical methods covering green gray blue and turquoise pathways. It discusses storage and transportation challenges highlighting methods like compression liquefaction chemical carriers (e.g. ammonia) and transport via pipelines and vehicles. Hydrogen combustion mechanisms and optimized burner and furnace designs are explored along with the environmental benefits of lower emissions contrasted with economic concerns like production and infrastructure costs. Additionally industrial and energy applications safety concerns and the challenges of large-scale adoption are addressed presenting hydrogen as a promising yet complex alternative to fossil fuels.
Wind-coupled Hydrogen Integration for Commercial Greenhouse Food and Power Production: A Case Study
Oct 2024
Publication
This study investigates the feasibility of using green hydrogen technology produced via Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis powered by a 200 MW wind farm for a commercial Greenhouse in Ontario Canada. Nine different scenarios are analyzed exploring various approaches to hydrogen (H2) production transportation and utilization for electricity generation. The aim is to transition from using natural gas to using varying combinations of H2 and natural gas that include 10 % 20 % and 100 % of H2 with 90 % 80 % and 0 % of natural gas to generate 13.3 MW from Combined Heat and Power (CHP) engines. The techno-economic parameters considered for the study are the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) payback period (PBT) internal rate of return (IRR) and discounted payback period (DPB). The study found that a 10 % H2-Natural Gas blend using existing wired or transmission line (W-10H2) with 5 days of storage capacity and 2190 h of CHP operation per year had the lowest cost with a LCOH of USD 3.69/kg. However 100 % of H2 using existing wired or transmission line (W-100H2) with the same storage and operation hours revealed better PBT IRR and DPB with values of 6.205 years 15.16 % and 7.993 years respectively. It was found impractical to build a new pipeline or transport H2 via tube trailer from wind farm site to greenhouse. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted to understand what factors affect the LCOH value the most.
A Techno-economic Assessment of the Viability of a Photovoltaic-wind-battery Storage-hydrogen Energy System for Electrifying Primary Healthcare Centre in Sub-Saharan Africa
Jun 2024
Publication
Healthcare facilities in isolated rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa face challenges in providing essential health services due to unreliable energy access. This study examines the use of hybrid renewable energy systems consisting of solar PV wind turbines batteries and hydrogen storage for the electrification of rural healthcare facilities in Nigeria and South Africa. The study deployed the efficacy of Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources software for techno-economic analysis and the Evaluation based on the Distance from Average Solution method for multicriteria decision-making for sizing optimizing and selecting the optimal energy system. Results show that the optimal configurations achieve cost-effective levelized energy costs ranging from $0.336 to $0.410/kWh for both countries. For the Nigeria case study the optimal energy system includes 5 kW PV 10 kW fuel cell 10 kW inverter 10 kW electrolyzer and 16 kg hydrogen tank. South Africa's optimal configuration has 5 kW PV 10 kW battery 10 kW inverter and 7.5 kW rectifier. Solar PV provides more than 90% of energy with dual axis tracking yielding the highest output: 8889kWh/yr for Nigeria and 10470kWh/yr for South Africa. The multi-criteria decisionmaking analysis reveals that Nigeria's preferred option is the hybrid system without tracking. In contrast the horizontal axis weekly adjustment tracking configuration is optimal for South Africa considering technical economic and environmental criteria. The findings highlight the importance of context-specific optimization for hybrid renewable energy systems in rural healthcare facilities to accelerate Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 7.
Investigation of a New Holistic Energy System for a Sustainable Airport with Green Hydrogen Fuels
Jun 2024
Publication
The advancement of sustainable solutions through renewable energy sources is crucial to mitigate carbon emissions. This study reports a novel system for an airport utilizing geothermal biomass and PV solar energy sources. The proposed system is capable of producing five useful outputs including electrical power hot water hydrogen kerosene and space heating. In open literature there has been no system reported with these combination of energy sources and outputs. The system is considered for Vancouver Airport using the most recent statistics available. The geothermal sub-system introduced is also unique which utilizes carbon dioxide captured as the heat transfer medium for power generation and heating. The present system is considered using thermodynamic analysis through energetic and exergetic approaches to determine the variation in system performance based on different annual climate conditions. Biomass gasification and kerosene production are evaluated based on the Aspen Plus models. The efficiencies of the geothermal system with the carbon dioxide reservoir are found to have energetic and energetic efficiencies of 78 % and 37 % respectively. The total hydrogen production projection is obtained to be 452 tons on an annual basis. The kerosene production mass flow rate is reported as 0.112 kg/s. The overall energetic and exergetic efficiencies of the system are found to be 41.8 % and 32.9 % respectively. This study offers crucial information for the aviation sector to adopt sustainable solutions more effectively.
Modelling Guided Energy Management System for a Hydrogen-fuelled Harbour Tug
May 2024
Publication
The use of hydrogen as a source of fuel for marine applications is relatively nascent. As the maritime industry pivots to the use of alternate low and zero-emission fuels to adapt to a changing regulatory landscape hydrogen energy needs to present and substantiate a technical and commercially viable use case to secure its value proposition in the future fuel mix. This paper leverages the technoeconomic and environmental assessment previously performed on HyForce a hydrogen-fuelled harbour tug which has shown encouraging results for both technical and commercial aspects. This study aims to create a digital twin of HyForce to accurately predict her operability in real-world scenarios. The results from this study identify the strengths and drawbacks of the proposed use case. This is achieved by embedding the detailed design of HyForce in a virtual environment to further evaluate its operational performance through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of realistic environmental conditions such as wind wave sea currents and friction attributed to the properties of seawater. The results from this study indicate a base case power requirement of 93 kW to 1892 kW to achieve speeds of 5 to 12 knots in the absence of external environmental influences. Consequently the speed of HyForce has a profound impact on total resistance peaking at 97.3 kN at 12 knots. Seawater properties such as low seawater temperature of 0C and a high salinity of 50g/kg increased friction. Additionally wind speeds of 10 m/s acting on HyForce delivered a resistance of 3 kN. However these will be well mitigated through the design of the propulsion system which will be able to deliver a thrust power of 1892 kW and with assistance from the energy storage systems produce 2 MW of power to overcome the resistance experienced. The findings presented in this paper can serve as a foundation for constructing a robust model for the development of a predictive controller for future work. This controller has the potential to optimize the configuration of hydrogen and battery energy storage aligning with desired cost functions.
Mathematical Optimization Modeling for Scenario Analysis of Integrated Steelworks Transitioning Towards Hydrogen-based Reduction
Jul 2024
Publication
To reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the steel industry efforts are made to introduce a steelmaking route based on hydrogen reduction of iron ore instead of the commonly used cokebased reduction in a blast furnace. Changing fundamental pieces of steelworks affects the functions of most every system unit involved and thus warrants the question of how such a transition could optimally take place over time and no rigorous attempts have until now been made to tackle this problem mathematically. This article presents a steel plant optimization model written as a mixed-integer non-linear programming problem where aging blast furnaces and basic oxygen furnaces could potentially be replaced with shaft furnaces and electric arc furnaces minimizing costs or emissions over a long-term time horizon to identify possible transition pathways. Example cases show how various parameters affect optimal investment pathways stressing the necessity of appropriate planning tools for analyzing diverse cases.
Investigating the Future of Freight Transport Low Carbon Technologies Market Acceptance across Different Regions
Oct 2024
Publication
Fighting climate change has become a major task worldwide. One of the key energy sectors to emit greenhouse gases is transportation. Therefore long term strategies all over the world have been set up to reduce on-road combustion emissions. In this context the road freight sector faces significant challenges in decarbonization driven by its limited availability of low-emission fuels and commercialized zero-emission vehicles compared with its high energy demand. In this work we develop the Mobility and Energy Transportation Analysis (META) Model a python-based optimization model to quantify the impact of transportation projected policies on freight transport by projecting conventional and alternative fuel technologies market acceptance as well as greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Along with introducing e-fuels as an alternative refueling option for conventional vehicles META investigates the market opportunities of Mobile Carbon Capture (MCC) until 2050. To accurately assess this technology a techno-economic analysis is essential to compare MCC abatement cost to alternative decarbonization technologies such as electric trucks. The novelty of this work comes from the detailed cost categories taken into consideration in the analysis including intangible costs associated with heavy-duty technologies such as recharging/refueling time cargo capacity limitations and consumer acceptance towards emerging technologies across different regions. Based on the study results the competitive total cost of ownership (TCO) and marginal abatement cost (MAC) values of MCC make it an economically promising alternative option to decarbonize the freight transport sector. Both in the KSA and EU MCC options could reach greater than 50% market shares of all ICE vehicle sales equivalent to a combined 35% of all new sales shares by 2035.
0-D Dynamic Performance Simulation of Hydrogen-Fueled Turboshaft Engine
Oct 2024
Publication
In the last few decades the problem of pollution resulting from human activities has pushed research toward zero or net-zero carbon solutions for transportation. The main objective of this paper is to perform a preliminary performance assessment of the use of hydrogen in conventional turbine engines for aeronautical applications. A 0-D dynamic model of the Allison 250 C-18 turboshaft engine was designed and validated using conventional aviation fuel (kerosene Jet A-1). A dedicated experimental campaign covering the whole engine operating range was conducted to obtain the thermodynamic data for the main engine components: the compressor lateral ducts combustion chamber high- and low-pressure turbines and exhaust nozzle. A theoretical chemical combustion model based on the NASA-CEA database was used to account for the energy conversion process in the combustor and to obtain quantitative feedback from the model in terms of fuel consumption. Once the engine and the turbomachinery of the engine were characterized the work focused on designing a 0-D dynamic engine model based on the engine’s characteristics and the experimental data using the MATLAB/Simulink environment which is capable of replicating the real engine behavior. Then the 0-D dynamic model was validated by the acquired data and used to predict the engine’s performance with a different throttle profile (close to realistic request profiles during flight). Finally the 0-D dynamic engine model was used to predict the performance of the engine using hydrogen as the input of the theoretical combustion model. The outputs of simulations running conventional kerosene Jet A-1 and hydrogen using different throttle profiles were compared showing up to a 64% reduction in fuel mass flow rate and a 3% increase in thermal efficiency using hydrogen in flight-like conditions. The results confirm the potential of hydrogen as a suitable alternative fuel for small turbine engines and aircraft.
Hydrogen Refueling Stations: A Review of the Technology Involved from Key Energy Consumption Processes to Related Energy Management Strategies
Sep 2024
Publication
Over the last few years hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution for problems related to energy sources and pollution concerns. The integration of hydrogen in the transport sector is one of the possible various applications and involves the implementation of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs). A key obstacle for HRS deployment in addition to the need for well-developed technologies is the economic factor since these infrastructures require high capital investments costs and are largely dependent on annual operating costs. In this study we review hydrogen’s application as a fuel summarizing the principal systems involved in HRS from production to the final refueling stage. In addition we also analyze the main equipment involved in the production compression and storage processes of hydrogen. The current work also highlights the main refueling processes that impact energy consumption and the methodologies presented in the literature for energy management strategies in HRSs. With the aim of reducing energy costs due to processes that require high energy consumption most energy management strategies are based on the use of renewable energy sources in addition to the use of the power grid.
The Environmental Impacts of Future Global Sales of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
Oct 2024
Publication
During the last decade developing more sustainable transportation modes has become a primary objective for car manufacturers and governments around the world to mitigate environmental issues such as climate change the continuous increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy depletion. The use of hydrogen fuel cell technology as a source of energy in electric vehicles is considered an emerging and promising technology that could contribute significantly to addressing these environmental issues. In this study the effects of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Battery Electric Vehicles (HFCBEVs) on global GHG emissions compared to other technologies such as BEVs were determined based on different relevant factors such as predicted sales for 2050 (the result of the developed prediction model) estimated daily traveling distance estimated future average global electricity emission factors future average Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) emission factors future global hydrogen production emission factors and future average HFCBEV emission factors. As a result the annual GHG emissions produced by passenger cars that are expected to be sold in 2050 were determined by considering BEV sales in the first scenario and HFCBEV replacement in the second scenario. The results indicate that the environmental benefits of HFCBEVs are expected to increase over time compared to those of BEVs due to the eco-friendly methods that are expected to be used in hydrogen production in the future. For instance in 2021 HFCBEVs could produce more GHG emissions than BEVs by 54.9% per km of travel whereas in 2050 BEVs could produce more GHG emissions than HFCBEVs by 225% per km of travel.
Innovative Strategies for Combining Solar and Wind Energy with Green Hydrogen Systems
Oct 2024
Publication
The integration of wind and solar energy with green hydrogen technologies represents an innovative approach toward achieving sustainable energy solutions. This review examines state-ofthe-art strategies for synthesizing renewable energy sources aimed at improving the efficiency of hydrogen (H2 ) generation storage and utilization. The complementary characteristics of solar and wind energy where solar power typically peaks during daylight hours while wind energy becomes more accessible at night or during overcast conditions facilitate more reliable and stable hydrogen production. Quantitatively hybrid systems can realize a reduction in the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) ranging from EUR 3.5 to EUR 8.9 per kilogram thereby maximizing the use of renewable resources but also minimizing the overall H2 production and infrastructure costs. Furthermore advancements such as enhanced electrolysis technologies with overall efficiencies rising from 6% in 2008 to over 20% in the near future illustrate significant progress in this domain. The review also addresses operational challenges including intermittency and scalability and introduces system topologies that enhance both efficiency and performance. However it is essential to consider these challenges carefully because they can significantly impact the overall effectiveness of hydrogen production systems. By providing a comprehensive assessment of these hybrid systems (which are gaining traction) this study highlights their potential to address the increasing global energy demands. However it also aims to support the transition toward a carbon-neutral future. This potential is significant because it aligns with both environmental goals and energy requirements. Although challenges remain the promise of these systems is evident.
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.
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