Multi-technology co-optimization approach for sustainable hydrogen and electricity supply chains considering variability and demand scale

In the pursuit of a carbon-neutral future, hydrogen emerges as a pivotal element, serving as a carbon-free energy carrier and feedstock. As efforts to decarbonize sectors such as heating and transportation intensify, understanding and navigating through the dynamics of hydrogen demand expansion becomes critical. Transitioning to hydrogen economy is complicated by varying regional scales and types of hydrogen demand, with forecasts indicating a rise in variable demand that calls for diverse production technologies. Currently, steam methane reforming is prevalent, but its significant carbon emissions make a shift to cleaner alternatives like blue and green hydrogen imperative. Each production method possesses distinct characteristics, necessitating a thorough exploration and co-optimization with electricity supply chains as well as carbon capture, utilization, and storage systems. Our study fills existing research gaps by introducing a superstructure optimization framework that accommodates various demand scenarios and technologies. Through case studies in California, we underscore the critical role of demand profiles in shaping the optimal configurations and economics of supply chains and emphasize the need for diversified portfolios and co-optimization to facilitate sustainable energy transitions.