Assessing the sustainability of hydrogen supply chains using network Data Envelopment Analysis

Abstract

The aim of this study is to model optimal hydrogen supply chain from the eco-efficiency point of view. The study uses capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operation and maintenance expenditures (OPEX) as economic indicators on each stage of supply chain and environmental impacts calculated based on life cycle inventory and analysis methodology as environmental indicators. Network Data Envelopment Analysis (NDEA) is used as a tool for evaluation of the mixed economic and environmental performance of supply chain. The study shows that most efficient chains according to the criterion of integrated environmental and economic efficiency are wind energy - PEM electrolysis, hydro energy - PEM electrolysis and coal gasification with carbon capture and storage. The least eco-efficient option for hydrogen supply chain are options with thermal generation based on coal - electrolysis, due to relatively high capital costs of electrolysis and high negative environmental effects of the first stage.