A systematic review of modelling methods for studying the integration of hydrogen into energy systems

Abstract

Hydrogen could be generated, stored, transported, and consumed in various ways, making it a promising solution to carbon emission reduction. However, key questions still remain in how hydrogen could be appropriately integrated into energy systems over time while coupling with different sectors. This has led to model-based studies of the whole system value of hydrogen in future energy systems, and the near-term actions and long-term strategies required to facilitate the transition to low-carbon energy systems with hydrogen. In this paper, a systematic review of the existing model-based studies in this area was conducted. A summary of hydrogen applications in energy systems was made, with statistics of publications and projects revealing the fast-growing interest in hydrogen in the past several years. The modelling methods used to investigate the system integration of hydrogen was summarised from over 130 publications. This paper also identified the gaps in modelling capability and potential future research topics: 1) balance between the resolution and modelling complexity, 2) inclusion of all uncertain factors of hydrogen pathways, 3) advancement of modelling approaches to address the chicken-and-egg dilemma of hydrogen economy development, and 4) a more detailed and comprehensive coverage of various interactions between hydrogen and other sectors.