A multi-model method to assess the value of power-to-gas using excess renewable

Abstract

Power-to-Gas (P2G) is a process that produces a gas from electricity, which is most commonly hydrogen via electrolysis. While some studies have considered hydrogen as a power-to-power storage vector, it could also be used as a fuel across the energy system, for example for transport or heat generation. Here, two energy models are used to explore the potential contribution of P2G as a cost-effective source of hydrogen, particularly for future energy systems with high variable renewable energy (VRE) in which there are occasional periods when electricity supply exceeds demand. A detailed electricity system model is iterated with a multi-vector energy system model using a soft-linking approach. This iterative approach addresses shortcomings in each model to better understand the optimal capacity of P2G and the potential economic capture rate of excess VRE. The modelling method is applied to Great Britain in 2050 as a case study. A substantial proportion of excess VRE in 2050 can be captured by P2G, and it is economically competitive compared with alternative sources. Moreover, the effectiveness and economic viability of P2G for reducing excess renewable is robust at even very high levels of renewable penetration. • We soft-linked long-term energy system model (UK TIMES) with power system model to examine value of Power-to-Hydrogen(P2G). • The variability of VRE and the potential curtailment are investigated at spatially and temporally explicit details. • P2G using excess renewable could be an important hydrogen supply and also help integrate high level of VRE. • P2G using excess renewable is found as the most cost-effective technology for generating hydrogen for 2050 in GB case study. • P2G would accounts for 87%-100% of total excess renewable in different scenarios, with the lowest production cost.