Comparison of Different Coupling Modes between the Power System and the Hydrogen System Based on a Power-Hydrogen Coordinated Planning Optimization Model

Hydrogen is receiving unprecedented momentum and is projected to meet a sizable share of the final energy demand in the future. The coupling between the hydrogen and power systems can help integrate volatile renewable energy, reduce curtailment, and realize long-term energy storage. Different coupling modes are being proposed, yet quantitative comparisons are absent. To fill this gap, this paper firstly summarizes the system composition of potential power-hydrogen coupling modes and analyzes their advantages and disadvantages. Then, a model for power-hydrogen coordinated planning optimization is proposed for quantitative analysis. Southern Xinjiang is chosen as a representative of the northwestern area in China, which has plentiful renewable resources and a relatively small local load at present, for a case study. Through result analysis, it is found that the mode of power-hydrogen coupling at the source side, either for in situ utilization or for long-distance transport via pipelines, shows better economic competitiveness. The discussion provides suggestions and a reference to policymakers for formulating infrastructure or industry plans in advance to better accommodate the rapidly developing renewable energy.

Automated summary

Hydrogen is gaining unprecedented momentum as a potential solution for meeting future energy demand. Coupling hydrogen with power systems can help integrate volatile renewable energy sources, reduce curtailment, and enable long-term energy storage. This paper fills the gap by providing a quantitative analysis of different power-hydrogen coupling modes, summarizing their system composition, advantages, and disadvantages. The study focuses on the southern Xinjiang region in China and finds that power-hydrogen coupling at the source side, whether for in situ utilization or long-distance transport, demonstrates better economic competitiveness. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers to plan infrastructure and industry development in response to the rapidly growing renewable energy sector.