Optimal operation framework of an energy hub with combined heat, hydrogen, and power (CHHP) system based on ammonia

With the growth of renewable energy sources, the operation of multi-energy systems, such as energy hubs has greatly interested researchers in recent years. In addition to common energy carriers, the role of hydrogen will also be essential in the future energy roadmap. This article proposes an energy hub structure based on ammonia fuel and other sources, such as solar, wind, and natural gas, as a combined heat, hydrogen, and power system, with various converters and energy storage systems to supply electricity, thermal, and hydrogen demands. Then, an optimal stochastic framework for the daily operation of this energy hub, considering electrical and thermal demand response programs, is presented. Another major contribution of this article is the comparison of four other structures to show the effectiveness of the proposed energy hub; in such a way, the existence of various elements, especially fuel cell and electrolyzer, are evaluated. Simulation of case studies using data from Finland shows that the proposed structure with the ammonia carrier has reduced operating costs by about 16.8%; so that 15.9% of the amount of gas purchased from the network decreased, but the sale of electricity to the upstream network has increased by 45% compared to the base case.

Automated summary

This article proposes an energy hub structure based on ammonia fuel and other sources to supply electricity, thermal energy, and hydrogen demands. It also presents an optimal stochastic framework for the daily operation of this energy hub, considering demand response programs. Case studies show that the proposed structure with ammonia fuel reduces operating costs and increases electricity sales compared to the base case.