Optimal design of distributed electric-thermal-hydrogen energy systems considering differentiated features of multi-type electrolyzers

Abstract

In order to enhance the efficiency of renewable energy utilization and the economic and environmental performance of distributed electric-thermal-hydrogen energy systems， a unified model for multi-type electrolyzers is established considering the strong fluctuation of wind and solar power generation and the differentiated features of multi-type electrolyzers. A method for optimizing the design of electric-thermal-hydrogen energy systems is proposed， taking into account the differentiated characteristics of multi-type electrolyzers. This method comprehensively utilizes alkaline electrolyzers， proton exchange membrane electrolyzers， and solid oxide electrolyzers， considering their differences in terms of economic viability， flexibility， and efficiency. This approach aims for consumption of renewable energy sources with different fluctuation characteristics. Case study results indicate that this method effectively integrates the differentiated features of multi-type electrolyzers， aligning the operational flexibility of various electrolyzers with the fluctuations in wind and solar power outputs. As a result， it comprehensively enhances the economic and environmental performance of electric-thermal-hydrogen energy systems.

Keywords

• strong fluctuation of wind and solar power
• multi-type electrolyzers
• optimal design
• electric-thermal-hydrogen systems