The concept of zero-energy medium-scale factory with the usage of non-standard alternative energy sources focusing on fuel cells and photovoltaic (PV) system in Germany

Abstract

The European Union is accelerating the energy transition by increasing the share of renewable energy share in the total energy mix to address climate change and ensure a reliable and independent energy system. Green hydrogen may play an important role in energy transition strategy. The study aims were to design, model, and analyse the concept of a zero-energy medium-scale factory with the integration of a green hydrogen system for the company in Germany. For the study, to answer research questions and achieve the aim, the meteorological, technical, and economic data were collected to be inserted into the software. Finally, after the data was collected. HOMER Pro software was used as a modeling tool, including simulation, optimization, and sensitivity analysis. The software is used to create standalone renewable energy systems with the integration of green hydrogen as a solution to address the issue of intermittent renewable generation. As a result of this thesis paper, two zero-energy systems were modeled, representing that combination of solar and wind power in the specific region (Baden-Württemberg) was beneficial and led to the lower net present cost of the system, and thus to lower cost of energy resulting in the net present cost equals to 5.93 million € and the cost of energy equals to 0.307 €/kWh. The sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the system's dependability by investigating the influence of electrolyzer and fuel cell pricing on energy costs. The study showed that considering the electricity price ITK Intertrade GmbH pays now, the modeled zero-energy system may not be economically feasible due to the high net present cost of the system. However, following the decreasing trend in the cost of green hydrogen components, the feasibility of implementing a zero-energy system with the integration of green hydrogen is increasing. Further research is needed to investigate the usage of waste heat generated by the fuel cell to improve the efficiency of the system.