In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, a groundbreaking study led by Dalila Hidouri from the ATSSEE Laboratory at the University of Tunis Manar is paving the way for a greener future. Hidouri’s research, published in the World Electric Vehicle Journal, explores a hybrid infrastructure that integrates photovoltaic (PV) solar energy for the production and storage of green hydrogen. This innovative approach could revolutionize the energy sector by addressing some of the most pressing challenges in hydrogen production, transport, and storage.
Green hydrogen, a clean and sustainable energy vector, is gaining traction as a viable solution for decarbonizing various sectors, including industry, buildings, and transport. However, the path to widespread adoption is fraught with obstacles such as high costs, infrastructure complexity, and security concerns. Hidouri’s study proposes a hybrid system that combines PV solar energy with Power-to-Electricity (PtE) and Power-to-Gas (PtG) configurations, aiming to overcome these hurdles.
At the heart of this system is an innovative energy management and optimization (EMS) algorithm. This algorithm allows for forecasting, control, and supervision of various PV–hydrogen–Grid transfer scenarios, ensuring optimal performance under different conditions of solar radiation, temperature, and load. “The EMS algorithm is crucial for managing the complexity of integrating renewable energy sources with hydrogen production and storage,” Hidouri explains. “It enables us to adapt to changing conditions and maximize the efficiency of the system.”
The proposed system was subjected to comprehensive daily and seasonal simulations to evaluate its power sharing, energy transfer, hydrogen production, and storage capabilities. The results are promising, with an overall efficiency of 62% and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to just 1%. The system can produce around 250 kg of hydrogen daily, equivalent to 8,350 kWh, demonstrating its potential for large-scale deployment.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. By reducing CO2 emissions by 98.8%, the system can help industries meet stringent environmental regulations and achieve their sustainability goals. The integration of PV systems with green hydrogen storage also offers energy flexibility, making it an attractive option for sectors with fluctuating energy demands.
Moreover, the study highlights the importance of technological development and infrastructure support for the large-scale deployment of green hydrogen systems. “While the results are encouraging, there is still a need for further research and development to maximize the potential of these systems,” Hidouri notes. “This includes improving the efficiency of electrolyzers, fuel cells, and storage systems, as well as developing standardized performance criteria.”
The research published in the World Electric Vehicle Journal, known in English as the World Electric Vehicle Journal, provides a roadmap for the future of green hydrogen production and storage. As the energy sector continues to evolve, this study offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By addressing the gaps in current research and proposing innovative solutions, Hidouri’s work is set to shape the future of sustainable energy.
The energy sector is on the cusp of a significant transformation, and green hydrogen is poised to play a pivotal role. With continued research and development, the hybrid infrastructure proposed by Hidouri and her team could become a cornerstone of the energy transition, driving us towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. As industries and governments worldwide strive to meet their decarbonization targets, the insights from this study will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of hydrogen production and storage.
