Techno-economic Evaluation of Integrated Green Hydrogen System

<p dir="ltr">This PhD thesis presents a comprehensive techno-economic evaluation of the green hydrogen supply chain, focusing on producing green hydrogen using desalinated water and its export as ammonia. The research aims to bridge significant knowledge gaps in the field by analysing the technical and economic viability of the proposed hydrogen production and supply pathway. The key objectives include performing techno-economic analysis of each process in the green hydrogen-ammonia supply chain, assessing the cost-effectiveness of using desalinated water for hydrogen production through PEM electrolysis, evaluating the integration of green hydrogen into ammonia production and its economic implications, comparing ammonia cracking technologies using CSIRO's metal membrane and conventional PSA methods, and exploring the potential of vertical integration in enhancing the economic feasibility of the green hydrogen supply chain.</p><p dir="ltr">The methodologies employed in this research include comprehensive mass balance and equipment sizing calculations for each process in the supply chain, such as desalination, PEM electrolysis, ammonia synthesis, and ammonia cracking. These calculations were based on standard engineering practices and relevant literature. Various economic models were utilised, including capital and operating cost models, cash flow analysis, and profitability analysis, to estimate initial investments, ongoing costs, and financial returns. Detailed techno-economic assessments were conducted for each process, focusing on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and scalability, and included sensitivity studies to evaluate the impact of key variables on the overall feasibility of the supply chain.</p><p dir="ltr">The findings of the research indicate that the integration of desalination plants with PEM electrolysis is a viable pathway for green hydrogen production, with the cost of desalinated water, hydrogen and ammonia significantly impacting the overall cost of hydrogen production. PEM electrolysis was confirmed as an efficient method for green hydrogen production, with advancements in materials and manufacturing processes contributing to reduced costs and improved durability. The integration of green hydrogen into ammonia synthesis processes demonstrated substantial environmental and economic benefits, with renewable energy sources for hydrogen production significantly reducing the carbon footprint of ammonia production. The comparison of ammonia cracking technologies highlighted the advantages of CSIRO's metal membrane technology in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, though further investigation is required for scaling up this technology. Additionally, the potential benefits of vertical integration in the green hydrogen supply chain were explored, suggesting that vertical integration could enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the overall economic viability of green hydrogen projects.</p><p dir="ltr">In conclusion, this thesis provides a detailed and robust techno-economic evaluation of a green hydrogen supply chain, offering valuable insights for scientists, engineers, and policymakers. The findings highlight the potential of using desalinated water for hydrogen production and the economic benefits of integrating green hydrogen into ammonia synthesis and cracking processes. The research underscores the importance of strategic investments and technological innovations in advancing the green hydrogen economy. The insights gained from this study contribute to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable energy systems and provide a solid foundation for future research and development in green hydrogen supply chains.</p>