Conditions for Profitability & Grid Effects of PV-Electrolysis

Master thesis (2021)

Authors

T.J. Visserman Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

Contributors

A.J.M. van Wijk Energy Technology - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 1)
K. Blok Energy and Industry (supervisor 2)
T.W. Fens Economics of Technology and Innovation - TPM (supervisor 2)
Faculty
Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
Copyright: © 2021 Thiadmar Visserman
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Published Date

06-12-2021

Language

English

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Faculty

Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

Abstract

In this graduation research conditions affecting the profitability as well as the grid effects of a PV-Electrolysis system have been studied using the site of PV park Oosterwolde as a case study. During the study a wide variety scenarios have been created from a set of influential parameters on the PV-Electrolysis business case, which have produced meaningful insights into the conditions for profitability and grid effects of such a system and at the same time have emphasized the complexity of the business case as it can be affected by a wide variety of factors of which the future development remains uncertain.

According to the Base Price Scenario in this study there are multiple ways that lead to profitable PV-Electrolysis business cases in 2025, all of which including a subsidy. This is due to favourable developments in several areas, most notably electricity prices, renewable hydrogen prices, PV and Electrolysis system costs and subsidies. Sizing of the electrolyser and the grid connection can have significant effects on the business case as well, but under the scenarios simulated in this study are not able to attain profitable business cases alone in 2025.

An analysis of the grid effects of the PV-Electrolysis results in two key takeaways: 'island mode' business cases can achieve attractive returns when supported by subsidies, and: years where the 'Spread H2/Power' is mobile around the zero line reflect the response to price signals with a more balanced power-to-grid profile compared to the individual PV system, which is desirable from an electricity system point of view, leading to improved utilization of the power grid.