Technical and economic analysis of a hybrid PV/wind energy system for hydrogen refueling stations.

In recent years, the construction of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) has been in full swing. However, irrational configuration and design can increase the operation and maintenance costs of HRSs and reduce their overall energy conversion efficiency. This paper introduces the configuration optimization of a hybrid PV/wind energy system for hydrogen refueling stations. Firstly, the distribution of hydrogen refueling demand of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) in different time periods was simulated by the Monte Carlo method according to the driving rules of HFCVs. Then a model of renewable energy HRS was established in Homer, the purpose is to provide energy supply service for HFCVs through hydrogen production by electrolysis of water from renewable energy generation. Based on this, a load demand response model is developed. Finally, the best system configuration under different scenarios is obtained with the objective of minimizing the total net present cost (NPC). Through simulation calculations, the results show that the system configuration is more economically feasible after considering the demand response. The best system configuration was a grid-connected system containing a 548 kW PV, 1040 kW WT, 600 kW electrolyzer, and 600 kg hydrogen tanks This renewable energy system has the lowest NPC of $8,351,442 and produces 40,000 kg of green hydrogen annually. The sensitivity analysis also shows that with the advancement of hydrogen energy development and technology, the system will bring multiple benefits such as environmental protection and economic benefits in the future. • PV-wind-hydrogen-electrolyzer energy system for hydrogen refueling stations. • Predicting hydrogen refueling demand distribution for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. • Demand response to guide load transfer to reduce system configuration cost. • Economic analysis in terms of net present cost and cost of electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]