Abstract Summary
The urgency to decarbonize global energy resources has spurred interest in green hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. However, the significant water consumption required for green hydrogen production raises concerns about sustainability, especially in regions facing water scarcity. This project addresses the critical issue of sustainable water sourcing for green hydrogen production, focusing on the province of Zeeland, Netherlands, as a case study. Zeeland presents a unique challenge due to its reliance on imported freshwater as well as the need for green hydrogen to sustain current industrial demand and support the energy transition. The overarching goal of this project is to determine the most cost-effective method of sourcing water for green hydrogen production while ensuring long-term reliability and sustainability. This presentation will introduce an optimization framework to determine the optimal hydrogen production schedule and necessary infrastructure investments for energy and water supply, factoring in energy prices, electrolyzer characteristics, and seasonal variations in electrical supply, water quality, and water availability. A variety of potential water sources within Zeeland are considered, such as seawater, fresh water, brackish water, and wastewater. An adaptable water supply network model estimates the cost of building and operating an optimal water network connecting these sources to the hydrogen plant. It also assesses the coordination between water and electricity networks. This includes evaluating the energy requirements for both the hydrogen plant and water network, which encompasses aspects such as pump operation and desalination. Future refinement of the framework will consider more strategies for water treatment and brine disposal and evaluate the cost, efficacy, and potential environmental impact of each. The project aims to provide insights into sustainable green hydrogen production, addressing environmental concerns and ensuring that increased hydrogen demand does not exacerbate regional water stress or environmental damage. Although this project analyzes the specific challenges faced by Zeeland, its methodology is applicable to other regions worldwide, allowing for region-specific solutions tailored to the unique characteristics of any city or region with a demand for green hydrogen. Ultimately, we hope to offer a structured approach to managing the intricate balance between industrial growth, renewable energy, and water sustainability in the evolving landscape of urban development.
