Integration of life cycle assessment with energy simulation software for polymer exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis

In the assessment and planning of energy systems, use of simulations is a crucial step. They allow the quantification of techno-economic potential to subsequently aid decision-making amongst various technological or design choices. In these software, environmental analysis is either too simplified or neglected completely since a conventional life cycle assessment (LCA) study might not be feasible to account for different variabilities related to scale, scope, energy carriers, etc. In this paper, we integrate techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production from polymer exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis with life cycle assessment. This step-by-step guideline will be useful especially for professionals working in energy system design to develop a LCA model for PEM in their respective software. Consequently, this will enable them to take environmental indicators into account while planning facilities.