Techno-economic and environmental optimization of green hydrogen and battery-based hybrid renewable energy systems for remote sustainable solutions
Tushar Kanti Roy, Sajeeb Saha, Amanullah Maung Than Oo
Abstract
This study investigates the design and optimization of a standalone hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels, lithium-ion batteries, and green hydrogen components for reliable energy supply in off-grid environments. A rule-based energy management strategy is developed to coordinate short-term variability via battery storage and long-term energy autonomy through hydrogen production and utilization. Three optimization algorithms, such as Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II, Crow Search Algorithm, and Sequential Quadratic Programming Algorithm are implemented to determine optimal component sizing based on techno-economic and environmental performance criteria. Among the optimization algorithms assessed, NSGA-II emerged as the most effective, delivering a net present cost (NPC) of $226,500, a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of $0.193/kWh, and a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of $4.88/kg. Notably, this configuration achieved a 98% reduction in carbon emissions relative to conventional diesel-based systems, underscoring its technical and environmental superiority. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis highlights the dominant influence of component efficiencies on system economics. A 20% improvement in fuel cell efficiency results in reductions of nearly 20% in NPC, 12% in LCOE, and 25% in LCOH, while a 20% increase in PV efficiency yields up to 12% NPC and 20% LCOE savings. The proposed HRES configuration is technically and economically suitable for remote applications with daily loads between 60–80 kWh, including isolated households, clinics, or community centers. These configurations support resilient, low-carbon power solutions designed to meet the distinct needs of off-grid and resource-limited communities.