Optimal Design and Cost Analysis of Microgrid Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems with Hydrogen Production and Storage and Battery

Concern about controlling climate change, and recognition of the urgent need to reduce the quantum of greenhouse gases emitted worldwide, has kindled interest in alternative sources of energy. Particular attention is currently on microgrid (MG) hybrid renewable energy systems. This work has been undertaken to appraise the viability of applying MGs with both hydrogen production and storage, and battery options to supply electricity for off-grid applications. Simulation models were created in HOMER platform to analyze and optimize the performance of the considered configurations for an off-grid residential building in Canada. Two distinct system arrangements were assessed, which comprised of photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines (WTs), fuel cells (FCs), electrolysers, hydrogen tanks, battery storage, diesel generators, converters, and controllers. The outcomes demonstrated that both systems are viable selections. Furthermore, it was proven that the MG battery-based system is the better arrangement for the household considered that results to the minimum levelized cost of energy (COE) and a renewable fraction (RF) of 0.36/kWh and 82.2%, respectively, compared to the hydrogen-based one, which has a COE and an RF of 0.57/kWh and 70.1%, respectively. With increasing recognition of, and interest in hydrogen technology, it is hoped that advances and discoveries in this beneficial technology will naturally be made, leading to significant reductions in the present costliness of operating the system.