Multi-criteria optimization of hydrogen energy supply chains considering economic and environmental impacts: theoretical case study in the context of Balearic Islands

Abstract

Hydrogen production through water electrolysis can play a role in the decarbonisation of energy systems when powered by electricity obtained from low carbon energy sources. The decision of deploying hydrogen technologies at a large scale in the future implies to get a comprehensive overview of the benefits and drawbacks on a variety of impacts compared to other alternative energy supply scenarios. The aim of this study was to perform a dynamic techno-economic and environmental impact assessment of renewable-based hydrogen supply chains relying on some of the characteristics of the GreenHysland EU deployment project in Mallorca (Spain). In this paper the optimization of the design and operation conditions of two hydrogen transport modes (trucks and pipeline) has been addressed for the supply of hydrogen to fuel cell buses and considering the possibility of injecting hydrogen into the natural gas grid. These hydrogen chains were assessed using PERSEE dynamic optimization tool developed at CEA relying on a Mixed Integer Linear Programming approach. A front of optimal solutions has been obtained considering both economic (Net Present Value) and environmental (cumulated equivalent carbon dioxide emissions) optimization criteria. Finally this study emphasizes the potential interest of such dynamic optimization approach to support impact assessment in pre-design phases of hydrogen projects complying with current and future greenhouse gases savings assessment methodologies defined at European level (e.g. RED II and related Delegated Acts) and corresponding green or low carbon hydrogen certification processes. This initial work opens the way to several perspectives for improvement in order to increase the robustness of these energy chain comparisons including sensitivity studies and the consideration of a broader set of environmental impact categories. These improvements are being reviewed by the research team and will help achieve a more complete analysis of the impacts of potential large-scale hydrogen deployment scenarios in the future energy mix of the Balearic Islands.