An in-depth system-level assessment of green hydrogen production by coupling solid oxide electrolysis and solar thermal systems

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive techno-economic analysis of green hydrogen production utilizing a third-generation Concentrated Solar Power system integrated with Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells, examining system configurations under variable climatic conditions in Chile and Spain. By employing dynamic simulation models that consider hourly and sub-hourly datasets, the research assesses the impact of solar irradiance variability on hydrogen production efficiency. The integration approach explores the efficacy of utilizing high-temperature solar power-derived heat for enhanced electrolysis operation, highlighting the critical influence of solar resource quality and data temporal resolution in system performance. Several scenarios involving different solar multiples, thermal energy storage capacities, and electrolyzer sizes were analyzed to identify their effects on the Levelized Cost of Hydrogen. The economic analysis reveals that this cost is notably sensitive to operational parameters and system configurations, suggesting that optimal integration and scaling of solar power and electrolysis technologies could significantly reduce hydrogen production costs. The findings underscore the need for targeted energy policies and investments in renewable technologies to support cost-effective hydrogen production, promoting future research focusing on advanced materials for electrolysis cells and improved system integration strategies. This work enhances the understanding of integrating advanced solar thermal and electrolysis technologies, providing a robust framework for advancing global sustainable energy solutions.