Exploring the potential of solar photovoltaic and wind-based green hydrogen projects in ECOWAS region: Production, cost, and environmental maps

Abstract

The transition to clean energy demands innovative low-carbon hydrogen production solutions, particularly in developing nations. This study explores the prospect of green hydrogen production in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) using solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power technologies. The region, endowed with massive renewable energy resources, continues to face challenges in developing economically viable and low-carbon hydrogen production strategies. The study fills this gap by developing a comprehensive methodology combining renewable energy production, electrolysis, and economic analysis. The study examines the viability of hydrogen production in 15 West African countries according to primary indicators such as electricity production, density of hydrogen production, levelized cost of hydrogen, and reduction of carbon dioxide emission. This novel method offers a detailed geospatial and techno-economic analysis of green hydrogen production, revealing stark variations in production costs and green hydrogen potential for West African countries. The study revealed Niger, Mali, and Cape Verde to have great potential for green hydrogen development due to high renewable energy resources and low production costs. This study provides policymakers and investors with a critical roadmap based on the potential of green hydrogen as a low-carbon energy solution in West Africa. In addition, it presents a strategy for creating competitive, low-carbon hydrogen economies that can drive the energy transition and economic diversification based on the region's strengths and weaknesses.