In the quest for carbon neutrality, green hydrogen has emerged as a beacon of hope, promising a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. However, the path to widespread adoption is fraught with challenges, particularly the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (RES) that power green hydrogen production systems (GHPS). A recent study led by Sungwoo Kang, a researcher at the School of Electrical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, published in ‘Heliyon’ (a peer-reviewed open access journal), offers a novel approach to tackle these hurdles.
The study focuses on the integration of energy storage systems (ESS) with GHPS, aiming to mitigate the variability of RES. “The inherent intermittent and variable characteristics of RES pose significant challenges to the stable operation of GHPS,” Kang explains. “While ESS can compensate for this variability, large-scale installations are often economically infeasible.”
Kang’s research introduces a copula-based operation strategy that coordinates the control between ESS and electrolyzers, enhancing the operational continuity and efficiency of GHPS. The copula-based approach allows for a more accurate short-term forecast of RES variability, enabling better management of the ESS’s state-of-charge (SOC). This is crucial for operating an ESS with limited capacity, ensuring that the system can respond effectively to fluctuations in renewable energy supply.
The proposed method has been validated through various RES generation scenarios, demonstrating its potential to increase the operational continuity of GHPS. This could have significant commercial implications for the energy sector. By improving the efficiency and reliability of GHPS, the study paves the way for more widespread adoption of green hydrogen, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
The research also highlights the importance of coordinated control between ESS and electrolyzers. “Effective coordination can optimize the use of available energy, reducing waste and improving the overall efficiency of the system,” Kang notes. This could lead to cost savings and improved performance for energy providers, making green hydrogen a more attractive option for commercial and industrial applications.
The findings of this study could shape future developments in the field by providing a roadmap for integrating ESS with GHPS. As the world continues to transition towards renewable energy, the need for stable and efficient green hydrogen production will only grow. Kang’s research offers a promising solution, one that could accelerate the adoption of green hydrogen and bring us closer to a carbon-neutral future.
