Iran, Islamic Republic of
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%.
Enhancing the Risk-oriented Participation of Wind Power Plants in Day-ahead Balancing, and Hydrogen Markets with Shared Multi-energy Storage Systems
Dec 2024
Publication
The increasing demand for renewable energy sources (RES) to address environmental concerns and reduce fossil fuel dependency highlights the need for efficient energy storage and balancing mechanisms to manage RES output uncertainty. However providing dedicated storage units to RES owners is often infeasible. Additionally the growing interest in hydrogen utilization complicates optimal decision-making for multi-energy systems. To tackle these challenges this paper presents a novel bidding strategy enabling wind farms to participate in dayahead balancing and hydrogen markets through shared multi-energy storage (SMES) systems. These SMES which include both battery and hydrogen storage offer a cost-effective solution by allowing RES owners to rent storage capacity. By optimizing SMES utilization and wind farm management we propose an integrated strategy for day-ahead electrical and real-time balancing markets and also hydrogen markets. The approach incorporates with uncertainties of wind generation bidding by using conditional value at risk (CVaR) to account for different risk-aversion levels. The Dantzig–Wolfe Decomposition (DWD) method is applied to decentralize the problem reduce the calculation burden and enhance the data privacy. The framework is modeled as a mixed-integer linear program (MILP) and solved using CPLEX solver via GAMS software. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of this strategy offering insights into the risk-oriented market participation of wind power plants with the aid of SMES system supporting a more sustainable and resilient energy system. The numerical results show that by utilizing a SMES with only batteries the revenue can be increased by 17.3% and equipping the SMES with hydrogen storage and participating in both markets leads to 36.9% increment in the revenue of the wind power plant.
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.
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.
Evaluation of Significant Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Using Hydrogen Fuel in a LFG/Diesel RCCI Engine
Jan 2024
Publication
The production of solid waste in human societies and the related environmental and global warming concerns are increasing. Extensive use of existing conventional diesel and dual-fuel engines also causes the production of high levels of greenhouse gases and aggravating the aforementioned concerns. Therefore the aim of this study is to reduce the greenhouse emissions in existing natural gas/diesel dual-fuel heavy-duty diesel engine. For this purpose changing the type of combustion to reactivity-controlled compression-ignition combustion and using landfill gas instead of natural gas in a dual-fuel engine were simultaneously implemented. Moreover a traditional method was used to evaluate the effect of variations in three important parameters on the engine's performance in order to determine the appropriate engine operating ranges. The simulation results indicate that although the consumption of 102000 cubic meters per year of natural gas in each cylinder is reduced only by replacing landfill gas the level of engine greenhouse gas emissions is too high compared to the relevant levels of emissions standards. Hence by keeping the total energy content of the fuels constant landfill gas enrichment with hydrogen was considered to reduce the engine emissions. The simulation results show that by increasing the hydrogen energy share up to 37% the engine load has the potential to be improved up to 7% without any exposure to diesel knock. However the downfall is the reduction in the gross indicated efficiency up to 3%. Meanwhile not only the fifth level of the European emission standard for nitrogen oxides and the sixth level of this standard for carbon monoxide can be achieved but it is also possible to overcome the high level of unburned methane as a drastic greenhouse gas and formaldehyde as a related carcinogenic species.
Synergistic Integration of Hydrogen Energy Economy with UK’s Sustainable Development Goals: A Holistic Approach to Enhancing Safety and Risk Mitigation
Oct 2023
Publication
Hydrogen is gaining prominence as a sustainable energy source in the UK aligning with the country’s commitment to advancing sustainable development across diverse sectors. However a rigorous examination of the interplay between the hydrogen economy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is imperative. This study addresses this imperative by comprehensively assessing the risks associated with hydrogen production storage transportation and utilization. The overarching aim is to establish a robust framework that ensures the secure deployment and operation of hydrogen-based technologies within the UK’s sustainable development trajectory. Considering the unique characteristics of the UK’s energy landscape infrastructure and policy framework this paper presents practical and viable recommendations to facilitate the safe and effective integration of hydrogen energy into the UK’s SDGs. To facilitate sophisticated decision making it proposes using an advanced Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) tool incorporating regret theory and a 2-tuple spherical linguistic environment. This tool enables a nuanced decision-making process yielding actionable insights. The analysis reveals that Incident Reporting and Learning Robust Regulatory Framework Safety Standards and Codes are pivotal safety factors. At the same time Clean Energy Access Climate Action and Industry Innovation and Infrastructure are identified as the most influential SDGs. This information provides valuable guidance for policymakers industry stakeholders and regulators. It empowers them to make well-informed strategic decisions and prioritize actions that bolster safety and sustainable development as the UK transitions towards a hydrogen-based energy system. Moreover the findings underscore the varying degrees of prominence among different SDGs. Notably SDG 13 (Climate Action) exhibits relatively lower overall distinction at 0.0066 and a Relation value of 0.0512 albeit with a substantial impact. In contrast SDG 7 (Clean Energy Access) and SDG 9 (Industry Innovation and Infrastructure) demonstrate moderate prominence levels (0.0559 and 0.0498 respectively) each with its unique influence emphasizing their critical roles in the UK’s pursuit of a sustainable hydrogen-based energy future.
Technical, Economic, Carbon Footprint Assessment, and Prioritizing Stations for Hydrogen Production Using Wind Energy: A Case Study
Jul 2021
Publication
While Afghanistan’s power sector is almost completely dependent on fossil fuels it still cannot meet the rising power demand of this country. Deploying a combination of renewable energy systems with hydrogen production as the excess energy storage mechanism could be a sustainable long-term approach for addressing some of the energy problems of Afghanistan. Since Badakhshan is known to have a higher average wind speed than any other Afghan province in this study a technical economic and carbon footprint assessment was performed to investigate the potential for wind power and hydrogen production in this province. Wind data of four stations in Badakhshan were used for technical assessment for three heights of 10 30 and 40 m using the Weibull probability distribution function. This technical assessment was expanded by estimating the energy pattern factor probability of wind speeds greater than 5 m/s wind power density annual power output and annual hydrogen output. This was followed by an economic assessment which involved computing the Leveled Cost Of Energy (LCOE) the Leveled Cost Of Hydrogen (LCOH) and the payback period and finally an carbon footprint assessment which involved estimating the consequent CO2 reduction in two scenarios. The assessments were performed for 22 turbines manufactured by reputable companies with capacities ranging from 600 kW to 2.3 MW. The results showed that the entire Badakhshan province and especially Qal’eh-ye Panjeh and Fayazabad have excellent potentials in terms of wind energy that can be harvested for wind power and hydrogen production. Also wind power generation in this province will be highly cost-effective as the produced electricity will cost about one-third of the price of electricity supplied by the government. For better evaluation the GIS maps of wind power and hydrogen outputs were prepared using the IDW method. These maps showed that the eastern and northeastern parts of Badakhshan province have higher wind power-hydrogen production potentials. The results of ranking the stations with SWARA-EDAS hybrid MCDM methods showed that Qal’eh-ye Panjeh station was the best location to produce hydrogen from wind energy.
An On-Board Pure H2 Supply System Based on A Membrane Reactor for A Fuel Cell Vehicle: A Theoretical Study
Jul 2020
Publication
In this novel conceptual fuel cell vehicle (FCV) an on-board CH4 steam reforming (MSR) membrane reformer (MR) is considered to generate pure H2 for supplying a Fuel Cell (FC) system as an alternative to the conventional automobile engines. Two on-board tanks are forecast to store CH4 and water useful for feeding both a combustion chamber (designed to provide the heat required by the system) and a multi tubes Pd-Ag MR useful to generate pure H2 via methane steam reforming (MSR) reaction. The pure H2 stream is hence supplied to the FC. The flue gas stream coming out from the combustion chamber is used to preheat the MR feed stream by two heat exchangers and one evaporator. Then this theoretical work demonstrates by a 1-D model the feasibility of the MR based system in order to generate 5 kg/day of pure H2 required by the FC system for cruising a vehicle for around 500 km. The calculated CH4 and water consumptions were 50 and 70 kg respectively per 1 kg of pure H2. The on-board MR based FCV presents lower CO2 emission rates than a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle also resulting in a more environmentally friendly solution.
Utilization of Hydrogen in Gas Turbines: A Comprehensive Review
Feb 2022
Publication
The concerns regarding the consumption of traditional fuels such as oil and coal have driven the proposals for several cleaner alternatives in recent years. Hydrogen energy is one of the most attractive alternatives for the currently used fossil fuels with several superiorities such as zero-emission and high energy content. Hydrogen has numerous advantages compared to conventional fuels and as such has been employed in gas turbines (GTs) in recent years. The main benefit of using hydrogen in power generation with the GT is the considerably lower emission of greenhouse gases. The performance of the GTs using hydrogen as a fuel is influenced by several factors including the performance of the components the operating condition ambient condition etc. These factors have been investigated by several scholars and scientists in this field. In this article studies on hydrogen-fired GTs are reviewed and their results are discussed. Furthermore some recommendations are proposed for the upcoming works in this field.
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.
An Insight into the Application and Progress of Artificial Intelligence in the Hydrogen Production Industry: A Review
Mar 2025
Publication
The urgent need for low carbon emissions in hydrogen production has become increasingly critical as global energy demands rise highlighting the inefficiencies in traditional methods and the industry’s challenges in meeting evolving environmental standards. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these challenges and opportunities. The current review discusses the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies especially machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) algorithms for process optimization in hydrogen production and associated power systems. The current study analyzes data from several important industry case studies and recently published studied evidence by using a review methodology in order to critically evaluate the effectiveness of AI applications. Key findings show how AI greatly improves operational efficiency through optimized production conditions and forecasted energy use. The review indicates that real-time data processing by AI helps to quickly detect anomalies for timely correction minimizing downtimes and maximizing reliability. Integrating AI with energy management solutions not only optimizes hydrogen production but also supports a transition to sustainable energy systems. Thus the current review recommends strategic investments in AI technologies and comprehensive training programs to harness their full potential ultimately contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
Real-Time Modeling of a Solar-Driven Power Plant with Green Hydrogen, Electricity, and Fresh Water Production: Techno-Economics and Optimization
Apr 2025
Publication
Solar energy is important for the future as it provides a clean renewable source of electricity that can help combat climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels via implementing various solar-based energy systems. In this study a unique configuration for a parabolic-trough-based solar system is presented that allows energy storage for periods of time with insufficient solar radiation. This model based on extensive analysis in MATLAB utilizing real-time weather data demonstrates promising results with strong practical applicability. An organic Rankine cycle with a regenerative configuration is applied to produce electricity which is further utilized for hydrogen generation. A proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEME) unit converts electricity to hydrogen a clean and versatile energy carrier since the electricity is solar based. To harness the maximum value from this system additional energy during peak times is used to produce clean water utilizing a reverse osmosis (RO) desalination unit. The system’s performance is examined by conducting a case study for the city of Antalya Turkey to attest to the unit’s credibility and performance. This system is also optimized via the Grey Wolf multi-objective algorithm from energy exergy and techno-economic perspectives. For the optimization scenario performed the energy and exergy efficiencies of the system and the levelized cost of products are found to be approximately 26.5% 28.5% and 0.106 $/kWh respectively.
Participatory Mapping of Local Green Hydrogen Cost-potentials in Sub-Saharan Africa
Mar 2025
Publication
C. Winkler,
Heidi Heinrichs,
S. Ishmam,
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. Brendt,
S. Brauner,
Wilhelm Kuckshinrichs,
S. Venghaus,
Daouda Kone,
Bruno Korgo,
Kehinde Olufunso Ogunjobi,
Jane Olwoch,
V. Chiteculo,
Z. Getenga,
Jochen Linßen and
Detlef Stolten
Green hydrogen is a promising solution within carbon free energy systems with Sub-Saharan Africa being a possibly well-suited candidate for its production. However green hydrogen production in Sub-Saharan Africa is not yet investigated in detail. This work determines the cost-potential for green hydrogen production within this region. Therefore a potential analysis for PV wind and hydropower groundwater analysis and energy systems optimization are conducted. The results are evaluated under local socio-economic factors. Results show that hydrogen costs start at 1.6 EUR/kg in Mauritania with a total potential of ~259 TWh/a under 2 EUR/kg in 2050. Two third of the region experience groundwater limitations and need desalination at an added costs of ~1% of hydrogen costs. Socio-economic analysis show that green hydrogen deployment can be hindered along the Upper Guinea Coast and the African Great Lakes driven by limited energy access low labor costs in West Africa and high labor potential in other regions.
The Role of Hydrogen in Integrated Assessment Models: A Review of Recent Developments
Mar 2025
Publication
Hydrogen is emerging as a crucial energy source in the global effort to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and meet climate goals. Integrating hydrogen into Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) is essential for understanding its potential and guiding policy decisions. These models simulate various energy scenarios assess hydrogen’s impact on emissions and evaluate its economic viability. However uncertainties surrounding hydrogen technologies must be effectively addressed in their modeling. This review examines how different IAMs incorporate hydrogen technologies and their implications for decarbonization strategies and policy development considering underlying uncertainties. We begin by analyzing the configuration of the hydrogen supply chain focusing on production logistics distribution and utilization. The modeling characteristics of hydrogen integration in 12 IAM families are explored emphasizing hydrogen’s growing significance in stringent climate mitigation scenarios. Results from the literature and the AR6 database reveal gaps in the modeling of the hydrogen supply chain particularly in storage transportation and distribution. Model characteristics are critical in determining hydrogen’s share within the energy portfolio. Additionally this study underscores the importance of addressing both parametric and structural uncertainties in IAMs which are often underestimated leading to varied outcomes regarding hydrogen’s role in decarbonization strategies.
Nanomaterials and Hydrogen Production: A Comprehensive Review of Clean Energy Strategies, Costs, and Environmental Implications
Aug 2025
Publication
An increasing demand for energy coupled with rising pollution levels is driving the search for environmentally clean alternative energy resources to replace fossil fuels. Hydrogen has emerged as a promising clean energy carrier and raw material for various applications. However its environmental benefits depend on sustainable production methods. The rapid development of nanomaterials (NMs) has opened new avenues for the conversion and utilization of renewable energy (RE). NMs are becoming increasingly important in addressing challenges related to hydrogen (H₂) generation. This review provides an overview of current advancements in H₂ production from biomass via thermochemical (TC) and biological (BL) processes including associated costs and explores the applications of nanomaterials in these methods. Research indicates that biological hydrogen (BL-H₂) production remains costly. The challenges associated with the TC conversion process are examined along with potential strategies for improvement. Finally the technical and economic obstacles that must be overcome before hydrogen can be widely adopted as a fuel are discussed.
Comprehensive Study on Hydrogen Production for Sustainable Transportation Planning: Strategic, Techno-Economic, and Environmental Impacts
Apr 2025
Publication
Hydrogen energy is essential in the transition to sustainable transportation planning providing a clean and efficient alternative to traditional fossil fuels. As a versatile energy carrier hydrogen facilitates the decarbonization of diverse transportation modes including passenger vehicles heavy-duty trucks trains and maritime vessels. To justify and clarify the role of hydrogen energy in sustainable transportation planning this study conducts a comprehensive techno-economic and environmental assessment of hydrogen production in the USA Europe and China. Utilizing the Shlaer–Mellor method for policy modeling the analysis highlights regional differences and offers actionable insights to inform strategic decisions and policy frameworks for advancing hydrogen adoption. Hydrogen production potential was assessed from solar and biomass resources with results showing that solar-based hydrogen production is significantly more efficient producing 704 tons/yr/km2 compared to 5.7 tons/yr/km2 from biomass. A Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to project emissions and market share for hydrogen and gasoline vehicles from 2024 to 2050. The results indicate that hydrogen vehicles could achieve near-zero emissions and capture approximately 30% of the market by 2050 while gasoline vehicles will decline to a 60% market share with higher emissions. Furthermore hydrogen production using solar energy in the USA yields a per capita output of 330513 kg/yr compared to 6079 kg/yr from biomass. The study concludes that hydrogen particularly from renewable sources holds significant potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions with policy frameworks in the USA Europe and China focused on addressing energy dependence air pollution and technological development in the transportation sector.
Economic Sizing and Placement of Hydrogen Fueling and Electric Vehicles Charging Stations Powered by Renewable and Battery Systems in Smart Distribution Network
Aug 2025
Publication
This article discusses the planning sizing and placement of a vehicle refueling station supplied by renewable energy systems including photovoltaic wind biomass units and an integrated battery system within a smart distribution network. The proposed station comprises facilities for hydrogen fueling and electric vehicle charging stations structured as a bi-level optimization approach. The upper-level model focuses on the planning phase of the refueling station. Its objective is to minimize annual costs associated with construction maintenance and operation. Key constraints involve operational planning for renewable sources battery systems and vehicle refueling stations while accounting for reactive power management. In contrast the lower-level formulation deals with the eco-scheduling of smart distribution grid. Its goal is to minimize the sum of annual energy losses and operation costs within the grid governed by linearized optimal power flow model. To account for uncertainties in demand energy prices renewable generation output and refueling station performance a stochastic optimization framework is employed. The solution is derived using Benders decomposition algorithm to achieve optimal results. The primary innovation highlighted in this paper includes integrating renewable resources and battery systems to power the refueling station leveraging reactive power control for improved station performance and addressing both operational and economic objectives in the distribution system. Numerical results underscore the advantages of this strategy. Constructing a refueling station without battery and renewable units leads to significant drawbacks an increase in network operation cost by 144.6% and grid energy loss by 167.6%. Voltage levels drop below 0.9 per-unit and distribution lines experience severe loading of up to 34.7%. In contrast the proposed plan enhances network economics by 51.3%-74.5% and operational conditions by 17.7%-148.1% effectively showcasing the benefits of incorporating sustainable technologies and advanced planning methods into refueling station development.
Predicting Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid Dehydrogenation Using Smart Connectionist Models
Feb 2025
Publication
Hydrogen is a promising clean energy source that can be a promising alternative to fossil fuels without toxic emissions. It can be generated from formic acid (FA) through an FA dehydrogenation reaction using an active catalyst. Activated carbon-supported palladium (Pd/C) catalyst has superior activity properties for FA dehydrogenation and can be reused after deactivation. This study focuses on predicting the FA conversion to H2 (%) in the presence of Pd/C using machine learning techniques and experimental data (1544 data points). Six different machine learning algorithms are employed including random forest (RF) extremely randomized trees (ET) decision tree (DT) K nearest neighbors (KNN) support vector machine (SVM) and linear regression (LR). Temperature time FA concentration catalyst size catalyst weight sodium formate (SF) concentration and solution volume are considered as the input data while the FA conversion to H2 (%) is the target value. Based on the train and test outcomes the ET is the most accurate model for the prediction of FA conversion to H2 (%) and its accuracy is assessed by root mean squared error (RMSE) R-squared (R2 ) and mean absolute error (MAE) which are 3.16 0.97 and 0.75 respectively. In addition the results reveal that solution volume is the most significant feature in the model development process that affects the amount of FA conversion to H2 (%). These techniques can be used to assess the efficiency of other catalysts in terms of type size weight percentage and their effects on the amount of FA conversion to H2 (%). Moreover the results of this study can be used to optimize the energy cost and environmental aspects of the FA dehydrogenation process.
A Hybrid Robust-stochastic Approach for Optimal Scheduling of Interconnected Hydrogen-based Energy Hubs
Jan 2021
Publication
The energy hub (EH) concept is an efficient way to integrate various energy carriers. Inaddition demand response programmes (DRPs) are complementary to improving anEH's efficiency and increase energy system flexibility. The hydrogen storage system as agreen energy carrier has an essential role in balancing supply and demand preciselysimilar to other storage systems. A hybrid robust‐stochastic approach is applied herein toaddress fluctuations in wind power generation multiple demands and electricity marketprice in a hydrogen‐based smart micro‐energy hub (SMEH) with multi‐energy storagesystems. The proposed hybrid approach enables the operator to manage the existinguncertainties with more flexibility. Also flexible electrical and thermal demands under anintegrated demand response programme (IDRP) are implemented in the proposedSMEH. The optimal scheduling of the hydrogen‐based SMEH problem considering windpower generation and electricity market price fluctuations as well as IDRP is modelledvia a mixed‐integer linear programming problem. Finally the validity and applicability ofthe proposed model are verified through simulation and numerical results.
Advancements in Hydrogen Storage Technologies: Integrating with Renewable Energy and Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Apr 2025
Publication
Hydrogen storage plays a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions by enabling large-scale energy storage balancing renewable energy fluctuations and ensuring a stable supply for various applications. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of hydrogen storage technologies with a particular focus on underground storage in geological formations such as salt caverns depleted gas reservoirs and aquifers. These formations offer high-capacity storage solutions with salt caverns capable of holding up to 6 TWh of hydrogen and depleted gas reservoirs exceeding 1 TWh per site. Case studies from leading projects demonstrate the feasibility of underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in reducing energy intermittency and enhancing supply security. Challenges such as hydrogen leakage groundwater contamination induced seismicity and economic constraints remain critical concerns. Our findings highlight the technical economic and regulatory considerations for integrating UHS into the oil and gas industry emphasizing its role in sustainable energy transition and decarbonization strategies.
Up-to-Date Status of Geoscience in the Field of Natural Hydrogen with Consideration of Petroleum Issues
Sep 2023
Publication
The perspective of natural hydrogen as a clear carbon-free and renewable energy source appears very promising. There have been many studies reporting significant concentrations of natural hydrogen in different countries. However natural hydrogen is being extracted to generate electricity only in Mali. This issue originates from the fact that global attention has not been dedicated yet to the progression and promotion of the natural hydrogen field. Therefore being in the beginning stage natural hydrogen science needs further investigation especially in exploration techniques and exploitation technologies. The main incentive of this work is to analyze the latest advances and challenges pertinent to the natural hydrogen industry. The focus is on elaborating geological origins ground exposure types extraction techniques previous detections of natural hydrogen exploration methods and underground hydrogen storage (UHS). Thus the research strives to shed light on the current status of the natural hydrogen field chiefly from the geoscience perspective. The data collated in this review can be used as a useful reference for the scientists engineers and policymakers involved in this emerging renewable energy source.
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.
Performance Analysis of Silica Fluidized Bed Membrane Reactor for Hydrogen Production as a Green Process Using CFD Modelling
Aug 2025
Publication
The main aim of this study deals with the potential evaluation of a fluidized bed membrane reactor (FBMR) for hydrogen production as a clean fuel carrier via methanol steam reforming reaction comparing its performance with other reactors including packed bed membrane reactors (PBMR) fluidized bed reactors (FBR) and packed bed reactors (PBR). For this purpose a two-dimensional axisymmetric numerical model was developed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate the reactor performances. Model accuracy was validated by comparing the simulation results for PBMR and PB with experimental data showing an accurate agreement within them. The model was then employed to examine the effects of key operating parameters including reaction temperature pressure steam-to-methanol molar ratio and gas volumetric space velocity on reactor performance in terms of methanol conversion hydrogen yield hydrogen recovery and selectivity. At 573 K 1 bar a feed molar ratio of 3/1 and a space velocity of 9000 h−1 the PBMR reached the best results in terms of methanol conversion hydrogen yield hydrogen recovery and hydrogen selectivity such as 67.6% 69.5% 14.9% and 97.1% respectively. On the other hand the FBMR demonstrated superior performance with respect to the latter reaching a methanol conversion of 98.3% hydrogen yield of 95.8% hydrogen recovery of 74.5% and hydrogen selectivity of 97.4%. These findings indicate that the FBMR offers significantly better performance than the other reactor types studied in this work making it a highly efficient method for hydrogen production through methanol steam reforming and a promising pathway for clean energy generation.
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 %.
Efficient and Low-emission Approaches for Cost-effective Hydrogen, Power, and Heat Production Based on Chemical Looping Combustion
Nov 2024
Publication
Hydrogen production has recently attracted much attention as an energy carrier and sector integrator (i.e. electricity and transport) in future decarbonized smart energy systems. At the same time power production is highly valued in energy systems as other sectors like transport and heating become electrified. This work compares two different low-emission systems to produce electricity hydrogen and heat. The proposed systems are based on chemical looping combustion combined with biomass gasification (CLC-BG) and steam methane reforming (CLC-SMR) both benefiting from heat integration between chemical looping combustion and downstream processes. A full process simulation is carried out in Aspen Plus for both systems and detailed modeling is performed for chemical looping combustion. The overall thermal efficiency is calculated to be 71.1 % for CLC-BG and 76.4 % for CLC-SMR. Co-feeding methane into the biomass gasification process of CLC-BG leads to an enhanced overall efficiency. In comparison to CLC-BG CLC-SMR exhibits greater potential in terms of power and hydrogen generation resulting in a higher exergy efficiency of 58.3 % as opposed to 44.6 %. Assuming market prices of 5.2 USD/GJ for biomass and 9.1 USD/GJ for natural gas the lowest minimum hydrogen sale price is estimated to be 4 USD/kg for CLC-SMR.
Underground Hydrogen Storage: A UK Perspective
Oct 2023
Publication
Hydrogen is anticipated to play a key role in global decarbonization and within the UK’s pathway to achieving net zero targets. However as the production of hydrogen expands in line with government strategies a key concern is where this hydrogen will be stored for later use. This study assesses the different large-scale storage options in geological structures available to the UK and addresses the surrounding uncertainties moving towards establishing a hydrogen economy. Currently salt caverns look to be the most favourable option considering their proven experience in the storage of hydrogen especially high purity hydrogen natural sealing properties low cushion gas requirement and high charge and discharge rates. However their geographical availability within the UK can act as a major constraint. Additionally a substantial increase in the number of new caverns will be necessary to meet the UK’s storage demand. Salt caverns have greater applicability as a good short-term storage solution however storage in porous media such as depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs and saline aquifers can be seen as a long-term and strategic solution to meet energy demand and achieve energy security. Porous media storage solutions are estimated to have capacities which far exceed projected storage demand. Depleted fields have generally been well explored prior to hydrocarbon extraction. Although many saline aquifers are available offshore UK geological characterizations are still required to identify the right candidates for hydrogen storage. Currently the advantages of depleted gas reservoirs over saline aquifers make them the favoured option after salt caverns.
Enhancing Wind Energy Efficiency: A Study on the Power Output of Shrouded Wind Turbines for a Hydrogen Storage System
Mar 2025
Publication
This study presents a simulation and analysis of a shrouded wind turbine system integrated with a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer (PEME) for hydrogen production. The novel aspect of this research lies in the use of an aerodynamic blade shroud to enhance the wind turbine's performance particularly at low wind speeds. The addition of the aerodynamic shroud increases the power output by up to 68% at a wind speed of 2.5 m/s compared to a conventional wind turbine. Additionally the effect of radial clearance between the shroud and turbine blades is explored showing that a smaller clearance significantly improves power generation. The study also investigates the impact of blade shape (NACA 2408 and NACA 4418) on performance with results indicating a 53% increase in power output for the NACA 4418 design compared to the unshrouded turbine. The influence of the aerodynamic blade shroud on PEME energy density and hydrogen production efficiency is discussed demonstrating how increasing wind turbine power output leads to higher current density in the electrolyzer which while increasing hydrogen production slightly reduces thermal and exergy efficiencies. To counteract this the study suggests using multiple PEME stacks in parallel to enhance both efficiency and hydrogen output.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Renewable Microgrids with PEMFC, Electrolyzers, Heat Pumps, Hydrogen and Heat Storages in Scenario-based Day-ahead Electrical Market
Jun 2025
Publication
Microgrids enable the integration of renewable energy sources; however managing electricity from intermittent wind and solar power remains a significant challenge. This study investigates two storage strategies for managing surplus renewable electricity in an IEEE 84-Bus microgrid with wind turbines and photovoltaic units. The first option involves producing hydrogen via electrolyzers which is stored for later electricity generation through fuel cells. The second option involves converting surplus electricity into heat using heat pumps which is then stored in thermal energy storage systems to efficiently meet the microgrid's thermal load requirements. A scenariobased day-ahead scheduling model is proposed to optimize the microgrid's electrical and thermal load management while considering uncertainties in market prices wind speeds and solar irradiance. The resulting large-scale optimization challenge is effectively tackled using the self-adaptive charge system search algorithm. The results indicate that for the optimal utilization of excess renewable electricity heat generation via heat pumps is more cost-effective than hydrogen production primarily due to the inefficiencies in hydrogen conversion and the ability of heat pumps to produce several units of heat for each unit of electricity consumed. Moreover heat pumps prove to be more economical than natural gas combustion in boilers for meeting the thermal demands across a wide range of gas prices. These findings highlight the economic benefits of integrating heat pumps and thermal energy storage systems into renewable energy microgrids.
Optimization of Renewable Energy Supply Chain for Sustainable Hydrogen Energy Production from Plastic Waste
Dec 2023
Publication
Disposing of plastic waste through burial or burning leads to air pollution issues while also contributing to gas emissions and plastic waste spreading underground into seas via springs. Henceforth this research aims at reducing plastic waste volume while simultaneously generating clean energy. Hydrogen energy is a promising fuel source that holds great value for humanity. However achieving clean hydrogen energy poses challenges including high costs and complex production processes especially on a national scale. This research focuses on Iran as a country capable of producing this energy examining the production process along with related challenges and the general supply chain. These challenges encompass selecting appropriate raw materials based on chosen technologies factory capacities storage methods and transportation flow among different provinces of the country. To deal with these challenges a mixed-integer linear programming model is developed to optimize the hydrogen supply chain and make optimal decisions about the mentioned problems. The supply chain model estimates an average cost—IRR 4 million (approximately USD 8)—per kilogram of hydrogen energy that is available in syngas during the initial period; however subsequent periods may see costs decrease to IRR 1 million (approximately USD 2) factoring in return-on-investment rates.
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.
A Review of Green Hydrogen Production Based on Solar Energy; Techniques and Methods
Feb 2023
Publication
The study examines the methods for producing hydrogen using solar energy as a catalyst. The two commonly recognised categories of processes are direct and indirect. Due to the indirect processes low efficiency excessive heat dissipation and dearth of readily available heat-resistant materials they are ranked lower than the direct procedures despite the direct procedures superior thermal performance. Electrolysis bio photosynthesis and thermoelectric photodegradation are a few examples of indirect approaches. It appears that indirect approaches have certain advantages. The heterogeneous photocatalytic process minimises the quantity of emissions released into the environment; thermochemical reactions stand out for having low energy requirements due to the high temperatures generated; and electrolysis is efficient while having very little pollution created. Electrolysis has the highest exergy and energy efficiency when compared to other methods of creating hydrogen according to the evaluation.
Thermo-economic Optimization of a Hybrid Solar-wind Energy System for the Production of Clean Hydrogen and Electricity
Feb 2025
Publication
With the increasing warming of the atmosphere and the growth of energy consumption in the world new methods and highly efficient energy systems take precedence over conventional methods. This study concentrates on the proposition and techno-economical investigation of a hybrid wind-solar energy system encompassing flat plate solar collector for the purpose of clean hydrogen and electricity generation. The proposed system is a combination of flat plate solar collectors wind turbine organic Rankine cycle and proton exchange membrane electrolyser. Wind speed turbine inlet temperature incident solar irradiation and collector-related parameters including its surface area and fluid mass flow rate are selected decision variables the impacts of which on the exergy efficiency and exergy loss of the scheme are examined. The objective functions included total cost rate and total exergy efficiency. The Nelder-Mead optimization method and EES software were utilized to achieve the mentioned goals followed by a comparative case study was conducted for two cities with high potential in Iran. According to the optimization results the exergy efficiency of 13.35% was achieved while the cost rate was equal to $25.48 per hour respectively. According to the sensitivity analysis the increment in the solar collector area incident solar irradiation wind speed and turbine inlet temperature improved the system's technical performance. Furthermore the exergy loss analysis pointed out that the increment in the turbine inlet temperature not only improves the system's performance but also reduces the exergy loss. A comparison of the electricity production in Semnan and Isfahan showed that 1192613.4 and 1188897.6 of electricity were produced in the two cities in one year respectively. The city of Semnan with the production of 2762.86 kg/h of hydrogen presented better system performance compared to the city of Isfahan with 2757.004 kg/h of hydrogen.
Simulation of a Solar-based Small-scale Green Hydrogen Production Unit in Iran: A Techno-economic-feasibility Analysis
Aug 2025
Publication
Based on the global efforts to reduce fossil fuel dependence and its environmental concerns green hydrogen has been considered a promising pathway towards sustainable energy transition. Iran is considered a promising location for green hydrogen production due to its considerable solar energy potential. While global interest in green hydrogen continues to grow studies that explore the techno-economic feasibility of small-scale solar-based green hydrogen systems tailored to Iran’s diverse climatic conditions are still relatively limited. This study aims to assess the technical and economic feasibility of small-scale green hydrogen production based on solar energy (photovoltaics) in six cities of Iran including Isfahan Kerman Kermanshah Shiraz Tehran and Zahedan by examining whether such systems can be financially viable despite their relatively high unit costs. The study employs TRNSYS for dynamic simulation of the hydrogen production system and RETScreen for economic analysis. The results indicate that the system has an annual energy production capacity ranging from 831.52 to 1062.22 MWh across the studied locations. The system's hydrogen production rate was between 16800 and 21114 kg/year. Based on the results the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) was recorded in Shiraz at $6.43/kg H₂ while Tehran experienced the highest value ($8.81/kg H₂). Among the evaluated cities Shiraz demonstrated the most favorable financial performance with an internal rate of return (IRR) of 18.5% and a payback period of 8 years. These findings can be useful for policymakers in Iran and the MENA region in investment planning related to the clean energy transition.
Altering Carbonate Wettability for Hydrogen Storage: The Role of Surfactant and CO2 Floods
Oct 2025
Publication
Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in depleted oil and gas fields is pivotal for balancing large-scale renewable-energy systems yet the wettability of reservoir rocks in contact with hydrogen after decades of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) operations remains poorly quantified. This work experimentally investigates how two common EOR legacies cationic surfactant (city-trimethyl-ammonium bromide CTAB) and supercritical carbon dioxide (SC–CO2) flooding alter rock–water–Hydrogen (H2) wettability in carbonate formations. Contact angles were measured on dolomite and limestone rock slabs at 30–75 ◦C and 3.4–17.2 MPa using a high-pressure captive-bubble cell. Crude-oil aging shifted clean dolomite from strongly water-wet (θ ~ 28–29◦) to intermediate-wet (θ ≈ 84◦). Subsequent immersion in dilute CTAB solutions (0.5–2 wt %) fully reversed this effect restoring or surpassing the original water-wetness (θ ≈ 21–28◦). Limestone samples exposed to SC-CO2 at 60–80 ◦C became more hydrophilic (θ ≈ 18–30◦) relative to untreated controls; moderate carbonate dissolution (≤6 × 103 ppm Ca2+) produced the most significant improvement in water-wetness whereas severe dissolution yielded diminishing returns. These findings show that many mature reservoirs are already water-wet (post-CO2) or can be easily re-wetted (via residual CTAB). Across all scenarios sample wettability showed little sensitivity to pressure but higher temperature consistently promoted stronger water-wetness. Future work should include dynamic core-flooding experiments with realistic reservoir.
Feasibility Assessment and Response Surface Optimisation of a Fuel Cell-integrated Sustainable Wind Farm in Italy
Sep 2025
Publication
This study explores the design and feasibility of a novel fuel cell-powered wind farm for residential electricity hydrogen/oxygen production and cooling/heating via a compression chiller. Wind turbine energy powers Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers and a compression chiller unit. The proposed system was modeled using EES thermodynamic software and its economic viability was assessed. A case study across seven Italian regions with varying wind potentials evaluated the system’s feasibility in diverse weather conditions. Multi-objective optimization using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) determined the number of wind turbines as optimum number of electrolyzers & fuel cell units. Optimization results indicated that 37 wind turbines 1 fuel cell unit and 2 electrolyzer units yielded an exergy efficiency of 27.98 % and a cost rate of 619.9 $/h. TOPSIS analysis suggested 32 wind turbines 2 electrolyzers and 2 reverse osmosis units as an alternative configuration. Further twelve different scenarios were examined to enhance the distribution of wind farmgenerated electricity among the grid electrolyzers and reverse osmosis systems. revealing that directing 25 % to reverse osmosis 20 % to electrolyzers and 55 % to grid sales was optimal. Performance analysis across seven Italian cities (Turin Bologna Florence Palermo Genoa Milan and Rome) identified Genoa Palermo and Bologna as the most suitable locations due to favorable wind conditions. Implementing the system in Genoa the optimal site could produce 28435 MWh of electricity annually prevent 5801 tons of CO2 emissions (equivalent to 139218 $). Moreover selling this clean electricity to the grid could meet the annual clean electricity needs of approximately 5770 people in Italy
A Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Framework for Sustainability Assessment of Wind–Hydrogen Energy Projects: Method and Case Application
Oct 2025
Publication
This study develops a comprehensive framework for assessing the sustainability performance of wind power systems integrated with hydrogen storage (WPCHS). Unlike previous works that mainly emphasized economic or environmental indicators our approach incorporates a balanced set of economic environmental and social criteria supported by expert evaluation. To address the uncertainty in human judgment we introduce an interval-valued fuzzy TOPSIS model that provides a more realistic representation of expert assessments. A case study in Manjil Iran demonstrates the application of the model highlighting that project A4 outperforms other alternatives. The findings show that both economic factors (e.g. levelized cost of energy) and social aspects (e.g. poverty alleviation) strongly influence project rankings. Compared with earlier studies in Europe and the Middle East this work contributes by extending the evaluation scope beyond financial and environmental metrics to include social sustainability thereby enhancing decision-making relevance for policymakers and investors.
Optimization Using RSM of Combined Cycle of Power, NG, and Hydrogen Production by a Bi-geothermal Energy Resource and LNG Heat Sink
Aug 2025
Publication
This study presents a comprehensive optimization of a tri-generation system that integrates dual geothermal wells Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) cold energy recovery and hydrogen production using an advanced Response Surface Methodology (RSM) approach. The system combines two geothermal wells with different temperature profiles power generation via an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) and hydrogen production through a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzer enhanced by integrated LNG regasification for improved energy recovery. The primary novelty of this work lies in the first application of RSM for multi-objective optimization of geothermal-based tri-generation systems moving beyond the conventional single-objective approaches. A 40-run experimental design is employed to simultaneously optimize three critical performance indicators: exergy efficiency power-specific cost and hydrogen production rate considering six key operating parameters. The RSM framework enables systematic exploration of parameter interactions and delivers statistically validated predictive models offering a robust and computationally efficient optimization strategy. The optimized system achieves outstanding performance with an exergy efficiency of 44.60% a competitive power-specific cost of 19.70 $/GJ and a hydrogen production rate of 5.15 kg/hr. Comparative analysis against prior studies confirms the superiority of the RSM-based approach demonstrating a 1% improvement in exergy efficiency (44.60% vs. 44.16%) a significant 44.1% increase in hydrogen production rate (5.15 kg/hr vs. 3.575 kg/hr) and a 0.81% reduction in power-specific cost compared to genetic algorithm-based optimization.
Transforming Ports for a Low-carbon Future: Nexus Modeling of Hydrogen Infrastructure, Employment, and Resource Management in Contrasting Climates
Aug 2025
Publication
This research study highlights a transformative approach to port development for a lowcarbon future by integrating Climate Land Energy and Water Systems (CLEWs) and Water-Energy-Food (WEF) frameworks. The proposed nexus model integrates the hydrogen infrastructure with green employment and resource management in contrasting climates. The scenarios analyzed include Business As Usual (BAU) Balanced Reduction Approach (BRA) and Maximal Sustainability Push (MSP) which focuses mainly on energy efficiency resource utilization and workforce sustainability. By BRA it is estimated that carbon emissions will decline by 30% in cold climates and 20% in warm climates without changing renewable power plants producing 45% and 30% of the electricity supply mix. In the MSP scenario emission reductions rise to 90% in cold and 40% in warm climates with renewables providing 62% and 40% of the electricity mix. Under the whole capacity of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and fish waste under anaerobic digestion and fish waste rendering by 2040 across all BRA and MSP scenarios. In transport 44% replacement of marine vehicles and 87% of land vehicles with hydrogen electric and carbon capture and storage (CCS)-equipped vehicles is made under the BRA scenario. These percentages increase to 100% under the MSP scenario in cold climates while remaining at 87% in warm climates. By this integrated framework the present study demonstrates the potential of ports to be powerful engines for sustainable economic growth optimized resource efficiency and the creation of resilient green employment systems in diverse environmental contexts.
Flexible Economic Energy Management Including Environmental Indices in Heat and Electrical Microgrids Considering Heat Pump with Renewable and Storage Systems
Oct 2025
Publication
This study discusses energy management in thermal and electrical microgrids while taking heat pumps renewable sources thermal and hydrogen storages into account. The weighted total of the operating cost grid emissions level voltage and temperature deviation function and other factors makes up the objective function of the suggested method. The restrictions include the operationflexibility model of resources and storages micro-grid flexibility limits and optimum power flow equations. Point Estimation Method is used in this work to simulate load energy price and renewable phenomenon uncertainty. A fuzzy decision-making methodology is used to arrive at a compromise solution that satisfies network operators’ operational environmental and financial goals. The innovations of this paper include energy management of various smart microgrids simultaneous modeling of several indicators especially flexibility investigation of optimal performance of resources and storage devices and modeling of uncertainty considering low computational time and an accurate flexibility model. Numerical findings indicate that the fuzzy decision-making approach has the capability to reach a compromise point in which the objective functions approach their minimum values. The integration of the proposed uncertainty modeling with precise flexibility modeling results in a reduction in computational time when compared to stochastic optimization based on scenarios. For the compromise point and uncertainty modeling with PEM by efficiently managing resources and thermal and hydrogen storages scheme is capable of attaining high flexibility conditions. Compared to load flow studies the approach can enhance the operational environmental and economic conditions of smart microgrids by approximately 33–57% 68% and 33–68% respectively under these circumstances.
Optimization Framework for Efficient and Robust Renewable Energy Hub Operation
Oct 2025
Publication
This research proposes an advanced optimization framework for renewable energy hubs within integrated electrical and thermal networks aimed at improving energy management. The motivation stems from the need for a more flexible and efficient solution that addresses the variability of renewable energy sources such as wind and bio-waste units while integrating storage solutions like hydrogen and thermal systems. The hypothesis is that combining a market-clearing price model with robust decision-making frameworks can optimize both economic viability and operational efficiency. The methodology adopts a two-tier optimization approach: the upper tier maximizes hub profits and the lower tier minimizes operational costs through a market-clearing price model. The study also incorporates a robust optimization model that accounts for decision-dependent uncertainties with a novel class of polyhedral uncertainty sets used for improved decision-making. Numerical results from case studies demonstrate that the proposed method increases the objective function by approximately 3% and achieves a 25% faster solution time compared to the Benders decomposition approach. These findings support the conclusion that the proposed framework enhances both flexibility and economic performance of energy hubs offering a viable solution for modern energy systems.
A Review of Integrated Carbon Capture and Hydrogen Storage: AI-Driven Optimization for Efficiency and Scalability
Jun 2025
Publication
Achieving global net-zero emissions by 2050 demands integrated and scalable strategies that unite decarbonization technologies across sectors. This review provides a forwardlooking synthesis of carbon capture and storage and hydrogen systems emphasizing their integration through artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency reduce system costs and accelerate large-scale deployment. While CCS can mitigate up to 95% of industrial CO2 emissions and hydrogen particularly blue hydrogen offers a versatile low-carbon energy carrier their co-deployment unlocks synergies in infrastructure storage and operational management. Artificial intelligence plays a transformative role in this integration enabling predictive modeling anomaly detection and intelligent control across capture transport and storage networks. Drawing on global case studies (e.g. Petra Nova Northern Lights Fukushima FH2R and H21 North of England) and emerging policy frameworks this study identifies key benefits technical and regulatory challenges and innovation trends. A novel contribution of this review lies in its AI-focused roadmap for integrating CCS and hydrogen systems supported by a detailed analysis of implementation barriers and policy-enabling strategies. By reimagining energy systems through digital optimization and infrastructure synergy this review outlines a resilient blueprint for the transition to a sustainable low-carbon future.
Accurate Prediction of Green Hydrogen Production Based on Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell via Soft Computing Algorithms
Oct 2025
Publication
The solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) presents significant potential for transforming renewable energy into green hydrogen. Traditional modeling approaches however are constrained by their applicability to specific SOEC systems. This study aims to develop robust data-driven models that accurately capture the complex relationships between input and output parameters within the hydrogen production process. To achieve this advanced machine learning techniques were utilized including Random Forests (RFs) Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) Linear Regression Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) Elastic Net Ridge and Lasso Regressions Decision Trees (DTs) Support Vector Machines (SVMs) k-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) Gradient Boosting Machines (GBMs) Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) Light Gradient Boosting Machines (LightGBM) CatBoost and Gaussian Process. These models were trained and validated using a dataset consisting of 351 data points with performance evaluated through various metrics and visual methods. The dataset’s suitability for model training was confirmed using the Monte Carlo outlier detection method. Results indicate that within the dataset and evaluation framework of this study ANNs CNNs Gradient Boosting and XGBoost models have demonstrated high accuracy and reliability achieving the largest R-squared scores and the smallest error metrics. Sensitivity analysis reveals that all input parameters significantly influence hydrogen production magnitude. Game-theoretic SHAP values underline current and cathode electrode conditions as critical factors. This research determines the performance of machine learning models particularly ANNs CNNs Gradient Boosting and XGBoost in predicting hydrogen production through the SOEC process. The outcomes of this paper can provide a certain reference for related research and applications in the hydrogen production field.
Machine Learning Models for the Prediction of Hydrogen Solubility in Aqueous Systems
Aug 2025
Publication
Hydrogen storage is integral to reducing CO2 emissions particularly in the oil and gas industry. However a primary challenge involves the solubility of hydrogen in subsurface environments particularly saline aquifers. The dissolution of hydrogen in saline water can impact the efficiency and stability of storage reservoirs necessitating detailed studies of fluid dynamics in such settings. Beyond its role as a clean energy carrier and precursor for synthetic fuels and chemicals understanding hydrogen’s solubility in subsurface conditions can significantly enhance storage technologies. When hydrogen solubility is high it can reduce reservoir pressure and alter the chemical composition of the storage medium undermining process efficiency. Machine learning techniques have gained prominence in predicting physical and chemical properties across various systems. One of the most complex challenges in hydrogen storage is predicting its solubility in saline water influenced by factors such as pressure temperature and salinity. Machine learning models offer substantial promise in improving hydrogen storage by identifying intricate nonlinear relationships among these parameters. This study uses machine learning algorithms to predict hydrogen solubility in saline aquifers employing techniques such as Bayesian inference linear regression random forest artificial neural networks (ANN) support vector machines (SVM) and least squares boosting (LSBoost). Trained on experimental data and numerical simulations these models provide precise predictions of hydrogen solubility which is strongly influenced by pressure temperature and salinity under a wide range of thermodynamic conditions. Among these methods RF outperformed the others achieving an R2 of 0.9810 for test data and 0.9915 for training data with RMSE values of 0.048 and 0.032 respectively. These findings emphasize the potential of machine learning to significantly optimize hydrogen storage and reservoir management in saline aquifers.
Adaptive Robust Energy Management of Smart Grid with Renewable Integrated Energy System, Fuel Cell and Electric Vehicles Stations and Renewable Distributed Generation
Aug 2025
Publication
This study expresses energy scheduling in intelligent distribution grid with renewable resources charging stations and hydrogen stations for electric vehicles and integrated energy systems. In deterministic model objective function minimizes total operating energy losses and environmental costs of grid. Constraints are power flow equations network operating and voltage security limits operating model of renewable resources electric vehicle stations and integrated energy systems. Scheme includes uncertainties in load renewable resources charging and hydrogen stations and energy prices. Robust optimization uses to obtain an operation that is robust against the forecast error of the aforementioned uncertainties. Modeling electric vehicles station and aforementioned integrated energy systems considering economic operational and environmental objectives of network operator as objective function extracting a robust model of aforementioned uncertainties in order to extract a solution that is robust against the uncertainty prediction error and examining ability of energy management to improve voltage security of grid are among innovations of this paper. Numerical results obtained from various cases prove the aforementioned advantages and innovations. Energy management of resources charging and hydrogen stations and aforementioned integrated systems lead to scheme being robust against 35% of the prediction error of various uncertainties. In these conditions scheme has improved economic operational environmental and voltage security conditions by about 33.6% 7%- 37.4% 44.4% and 24.7% respectively compared to load flow studies. By applying optimal penalty price for energy losses and pollution pollution and energy losses in the network are reduced by about 45.15% and 34.1% respectively.
Hydrogen Barrier Coatings: Application and Assessment
Sep 2025
Publication
Hydrogen embrittlement (HE) threatens the structural integrity of industrial components exposed to hydrogenrich environments. This review critically explores hydrogen barrier coatings (HBCs) polymeric metallic ceramic and composite their application and assessment focusing on measured effectiveness in limiting hydrogen permeation and hydrogen embrittlement. Also coating application methods and permeation assessment techniques are evaluated. Recent advances in nanostructured and hybrid coatings are emphasized highlighting the pressing need for durable scalable and environmentally sustainable hydrogen barrier coatings to ensure the reliability of emerging hydrogen-based energy solutions. This comprehensive critical review further distinguishes itself by linking coating deposition methods to defect-driven transport behaviour critically assessing permeation test approaches. It also highlights the emerging role of polymeric and hybrid multilayer coatings with direct implications for advanced and reliable hydrogen production storage and transport infrastructure.
No more items...