In the vast, sun-drenched landscapes of Algeria, a groundbreaking study is shedding light on the potential of green hydrogen to revolutionize the country’s energy sector. Led by Ayoub Boutaghane of the LEREESI Laboratory at HNS-RE2SD in Batna, the research delves into the techno-economic feasibility of off-grid hybrid energy systems that harness the power of solar and wind resources to produce green hydrogen.
Algeria, with its abundant solar irradiation and wind speeds, is uniquely positioned to exploit these renewable resources for sustainable energy production. Boutaghane’s study, published in the journal *Hydrogen* (which translates to *Hydrogen* in English), explores the integration of a hydrogen subsystem—comprising an electrolyzer, fuel cell, and hydrogen storage—with a PV/wind hybrid system. This innovative approach aims to supply both electricity and hydrogen to decentralized sites across the country.
Using HOMER Pro software, the research team analyzed five representative Algerian regions, taking into account variations in solar irradiation, wind speed, and groundwater availability. One of the study’s key innovations was the incorporation of a deferrable water-extraction and treatment load to model the water requirements of the electrolyzer. “This approach allows us to better understand the water-energy nexus and its impact on the overall system design and costs,” Boutaghane explains.
The study’s comprehensive sensitivity analysis revealed significant regional variations in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH), and net present cost (NPC). These metrics ranged from 0.514 to 0.868 $/kWh for LCOE, 8.31 to 12.4 $/kg for LCOH, and 10.28 M$ to 17.7 M$ for NPC, highlighting the sensitivity of these costs to fluctuations in renewable resource availability and investment costs.
The findings have profound implications for the energy sector, particularly in regions with abundant renewable resources but limited grid infrastructure. “Our study demonstrates that off-grid hybrid systems integrated with green hydrogen production can be a viable solution for decentralized energy supply,” Boutaghane notes. “However, the economic feasibility of these systems is highly dependent on local resource availability and investment costs.”
The research also underscores the importance of regional planning and tailored solutions. As Boutaghane puts it, “A one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to succeed. Instead, we need to consider the unique characteristics of each region to design optimal and cost-effective systems.”
The study’s insights could shape future developments in the field, paving the way for more sustainable and decentralized energy solutions. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and energy security, green hydrogen is emerging as a promising alternative. Boutaghane’s research offers valuable guidance for policymakers, investors, and energy providers looking to harness the power of renewable resources for a sustainable future.
In the words of Boutaghane, “The transition to sustainable energy is not just a challenge; it’s an opportunity. And with the right strategies and investments, we can turn this opportunity into a reality.”