EURO 2024 Copenhagen
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4019. Optimal operation of a grid connected electrolyzer and greenhouse gases emission accounting

Invited abstract in session MA-14: Impacts of transitioning to green gases, stream Energy Markets.

Monday, 8:30-10:00
Room: 16 (building: 116)

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Giulia Montanari
Energy, Politecnico di Torino
2. Nicolas Campion
DTU Management, DTU

Abstract

This analysis utilizes a deterministic optimization model to determine the optimal operational production of electrolytic hydrogen. The objective is to compare different operational strategies for electrolyzers considering electricity prices, subsidies for certified renewable hydrogen production, and regulatory constraints on GHG emissions. Using electricity grid data from Northern Italy, hourly grid emission factors are calculated through various methodologies, including European regulations for Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin production, the IPCC approach, and short-run marginal emission factors. Different emission accounting methods, such as Scope 2 and 3 from the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and the EU methodology are also considered. The comparison between different emission accounting methods shows that emissions calculated with Scope 3 are around 38% higher than those calculated considering Scope 2, and time-varying emissions calculations show a significant difference from yearly average methods, particularly when applied to a flexible load. The study highlights the temporal alignment of low prices and high emission factors; therefore, emission accounting methodologies that promote hydrogen production during low-price hours do not meet the need for GHG emission reduction. The findings indicate that different accounting methods impact the optimal operational behaviour of the electrolyzer and suggest the need of different strategies to reduce emissions.

Keywords

Status: accepted

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