H2 contribution to power grid stability in high renewable penetration scenarios

The paper proposes the analysis of four different scenarios of renewables penetration (40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) with the most affordable generators: photovoltaic panels and wind turbines. The synergy of two storage technologies, such as Li-Ion batteries and the hydrogen power-to-power solution (electrolyzer, H2 tank, and fuel cells), is evaluated to ensure the balance of the power-grid. The paper discusses the numerical Trnsys-based modeling (with 5 minutes definition) of the smart grid. A detailed performance evaluation of each component, according to operational maps provided by manufacturers, has been performed to meet an electrical load (10 MW peak - 54 GWh annual). A multivariable particle swarm optimization has been implemented to minimize the LCOE value of the four scenarios, ensuring grid stability. The results of the analysis show the crucial role of the H2 system in the goal of achieving a higher renewable fraction, mainly due to the possibility of seasonal storage without the self-discharge limitation of batteries.