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High-resolution dynamic modeling and techno-economic optimization of off-grid PV–electrolysis–BESS systems for green hydrogen production

Author

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  • Shin, Haeseong
  • Jang, Dohyung
  • Shin, Hee-Sun
  • Park, Sungtae
  • Kang, Sanggyu

Abstract

Green hydrogen production through water electrolysis (WE) powered by renewable energy offers a promising pathway for decarbonization but faces challenges related to cost, variability, and stable off-grid operation. This study proposes an optimal design and operational strategy for an off-grid green hydrogen production system integrating photovoltaic (PV) generation, alkaline water electrolysis, proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE), and battery energy storage systems (BESS). A dynamic simulation framework using one-minute PV irradiance data was developed to capture short-term renewable fluctuations and evaluate the interactions among the electrolyzers and BESS under real-time operation. The optimal system configuration was determined as 120 MW PV, 100 MW PEMWE, and 34.8 MWh BESS, achieving a Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) of $10.77/kg under base conditions. Sensitivity analyses indicated that a 20% reduction in PV CAPEX reduced the LCOH to $9.81/kg, while doubling the BESS C-rate or halving the AWE minimum load range further decreased LCOH by 5–10%. These results demonstrate that integrating dynamic modeling with techno-economic evaluation enables a realistic and comprehensive assessment of off-grid hydrogen systems, providing practical guidance for the cost-effective and stable production of green hydrogen under renewable energy variability.

Suggested Citation

  • Shin, Haeseong & Jang, Dohyung & Shin, Hee-Sun & Park, Sungtae & Kang, Sanggyu, 2026. "High-resolution dynamic modeling and techno-economic optimization of off-grid PV–electrolysis–BESS systems for green hydrogen production," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 409(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:409:y:2026:i:c:s0306261926001030
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2026.127451
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    References listed on IDEAS

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