In the sun-drenched landscapes of Oman, a groundbreaking study is paving the way for a greener future in transportation. Researchers have developed a sophisticated approach to determine the most cost-effective and efficient hybrid energy systems for hydrogen refueling stations (HRS), a critical component in the shift towards fuel cell vehicles. The study, led by Paul C. Okonkwo from the Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering Department at Dhofar University, leverages advanced optimization algorithms to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of these systems, offering valuable insights for the energy sector.
The research, published in Scientific Reports, focuses on three hybrid energy systems: photovoltaic-wind turbine-battery (PV-WT-B), photovoltaic-wind-fuel cell-battery (PV-WT-FC-B), and wind turbine-battery (WT-B). The goal is to identify the most viable configuration for HRS in Nizwa, Oman, based on net present cost (NPC), levelized cost of energy (LCOE), and levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH).
Okonkwo and his team employed several cutting-edge optimization techniques, including the Mayfly Algorithm, Genetic Algorithm, CUKO Search, Gray Wolf Optimizer (GWO), Constrained Particle Swarm Optimization (CPSO), Harmony Search (HS), and Flower Pollination Algorithm. Among these, CPSO consistently achieved the lowest costs across all metrics, making it a standout performer. “CPSO’s ability to optimize these hybrid systems efficiently is a significant finding,” Okonkwo noted. “It shows that with the right algorithms, we can make renewable energy solutions more economically viable.”
The study also revealed that increasing the capacity of photovoltaic (PV) systems can significantly reduce costs, highlighting the economic advantage of solar energy. Hybrid configurations that integrate PV and wind turbines (PV-WT-B, PV-WT-FC-B) showed a marked reduction in NPC compared to systems relying solely on wind turbines (WT-B). This underscores the importance of diversifying energy sources to optimize economic costs.
However, the integration of fuel cells (PV-WT-FC-B) added economic burdens, making the PV-WT-B configuration the most viable solution for HRS deployment in Oman. This finding is crucial for stakeholders in the energy sector, as it provides a clear pathway for investing in sustainable and cost-effective hydrogen production.
The sensitivity analysis further emphasized the strong inverse correlation between PV capacity and cost metrics, reinforcing the economic benefits of increased solar generation. “The more we can integrate solar energy into these systems, the more sustainable and cost-efficient they become,” Okonkwo explained. “This is a game-changer for the energy sector, especially in regions with abundant sunlight like Oman.”
The annual worth and return-on-investment analysis also demonstrated that the PV-WT-B system is the preferred energy solution for meeting the needs of HRS. This study not only provides a transformative framework for decarbonizing Oman’s transportation sector but also offers insights into optimal hydrogen production strategies to advance the global clean energy transition.
As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, this research could shape future developments in the energy sector. By optimizing hybrid energy systems for hydrogen refueling stations, we can make renewable energy solutions more accessible and economically viable. This is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it’s about creating a sustainable and prosperous future for all. The findings published in Scientific Reports, or in English, Scientific Reports, serve as a beacon for the energy industry, guiding the way towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
