Colloquia

Samenvatting

The accelerating transition toward a sustainable energy system requires large-scale integration of renewable electricity. However, the variability of these energy sources creates a mismatch between hydrogen production and the steady requirements of hydrogen supply logistics. As green hydrogen becomes a key energy carrier for industry and mobility, efficient buffer storage systems are essential to guarantee reliable delivery and cost-effective operation.

This thesis investigates the dynamic behaviour and techno-economic performance of a compressed hydrogen buffer storage system intended for a green hydrogen production facility. The system connects hydrogen production from wind-powered PEM and SOEC electrolysers to truck-based delivery at 500 bar.

A dynamic Python model was developed to simulate the interaction between production, multi-compartment underground storage, and truck-based offtake. A series of scenarios was analysed to evaluate the influence of storage pressure ranges, logistical capacity, and operational scheduling on system performance.

The simulations show that the originally proposed design does not provide sufficient storage flexibility to maintain stable operation under realistic conditions. An optimized configuration was identified that increases operational stability, reduces delivery delays, and enables substantially higher hydrogen throughput. Despite a moderate increase in energy use, the optimized system demonstrates comparable cost-efficiency and significantly improved performance.

Overall, the results highlight that targeted design adjustments can substantially enhance both the technical robustness and economic viability of the hydrogen buffer storage system, supporting the reliable implementation of green hydrogen infrastructure.