Techno-economic assessment of MW-scale solid oxide electrolysis hydrogen production plant: Integrating possibilities in Spain
Gonzalo Jiménez‐Martín, Xabier Júdez, Mónica Aguado, Íñigo Garbayo
Abstract
Solid oxide electrolysis (SOE) is regarded as the most efficient green hydrogen production technology. However, the cost competitiveness of this technology for large-scale hydrogen production is at stake due to the complexity of operating at high temperatures. This study aims to estimate the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of a MW-scale SOE system and its possible integration in Spain. The heat exchanger network of a SOE system has been optimized by a pinch analysis and the techno-economic feasibility of the system has been assessed. Even if initial LCOH estimations of >6 €·kg −1 are obtained with the electricity and stack costs as the major contributors, optimistic scenarios indicate that LCOH can be reduced below 4 €·kg −1 , or even further by coupling the systems to heat-intensive industries such as Spanish cement or steel factories. • The techno-economic viability of MW-scale SOE plant in Spain is evaluated. • The system uses 39.56 kWh e ·kg −1 of electricity and demands 9.48 kWh h ·kg −1 of heat. • A LCOH of 6.45 €·kg −1 is obtained, with stacks and LCOE as the major cost drivers. • Certain values of LCOE, stack cost and stack lifetime allow LCOH <4 €·kg −1 . • Potential locations in Spain where SOE can be integrated are investigated.