Designing hybrid energy storage systems for steady green hydrogen production in residential areas: A GIS-based framework

The constant operation of water electrolyzers prevents degradation caused by operational fluctuations, preserving performance. This study introduces a MILP-based design framework for hybrid energy storage systems, integrating photovoltaic systems, Lithium-ion batteries, and alkaline electrolyzers operating at constant rated conditions. The framework targets energy-independent residential users, fully meeting electrical loads while incorporating spatial analysis via a GIS-based management module. Applied to the Italian context, the framework uses historical data for residential end-users with 1.5−3.0 kW electrical loads. The results indicate photovoltaic systems sized between 3.0−4.5 kW, Lithium-ion batteries with 6.0−7.0 kWh capacity, and alkaline electrolyzers sized at 100−260 W for daily loads of 2.8−6.0 kWh. Lithium-ion batteries account for approximately 60 % of the total system cost. A levelized hydrogen cost of 12−19 €/kg is required to cover the overall investment costs. Additionally, the system offers environmental benefits, with CO2 emission reductions of approximately 0.35 to 0.83 tons per user annually.