A recent study published in the “Renewable Energies Review” has shed light on the significant potential for green hydrogen production in Algeria, focusing on the technical and economic feasibility of using different wind turbine technologies. Led by Abdelhamid Kaabeche from the Centre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables in Algiers, the research evaluates three models of 2MW wind turbines—VESTAS V90, GAMESA G80, and LAGARWEY LW72—across three distinct geographical sites in Algeria: Algiers in the north, El-Bayadh in the high plateau, and Adrar in the south.
The findings indicate a clear advantage for VESTAS turbines in terms of cost-effectiveness for hydrogen production. The study reports production costs of $20.16/kg in Algiers, $10.47/kg in El-Bayadh, and an impressive $9.11/kg in Adrar when using VESTAS turbines. In contrast, the costs associated with LAGARWEY turbines are significantly higher, at $29.18/kg, $14.37/kg, and $12.81/kg for the same sites, respectively. This disparity highlights the importance of selecting the right technology and location for maximizing hydrogen production efficiency.
Kaabeche emphasizes the significance of these results, stating, “The results clearly show that VESTAS wind turbines offer the most advantageous costs for hydrogen production.” He further notes that “evaluating both the quantity of hydrogen produced and the related cost is crucial, taking into consideration the choice of site as well as the wind turbine technology used.”
This research opens up commercial opportunities for Algeria’s energy sector, particularly as the global demand for green hydrogen continues to rise. With its abundant wind resources, Algeria is well-positioned to become a leader in green hydrogen production, potentially attracting investment and fostering innovation in renewable energy technologies. The findings suggest that by strategically deploying the most efficient wind turbine models, Algeria could not only reduce its hydrogen production costs but also enhance its competitiveness in the emerging hydrogen market.
As the energy landscape shifts towards sustainability, studies like this one are vital in guiding investment decisions and policy frameworks that support the growth of green hydrogen initiatives. The insights provided by Kaabeche and his team could play a crucial role in shaping Algeria’s energy future, making it a key player in the global transition to renewable energy sources.
