Multi-period stochastic mathematical model for the optimal design of integrated utility and hydrogen supply network under uncertainty in raw material prices

Abstract

Utility supply networks and hydrogen (H2) supply networks have been consistently individually studied in terms of techno-economic feasibility of large scale. A number of studies have proposed and improved mathematical models for design of each optimized supply network. However, although two different networks can coexist in a large-scale industrial complex, few studies have been conducted to develop an integrated utility supply and H2 supply network (IUHSN) design in a techno-economic optimization framework. In this study, we design an IUHSN which includes a number of utilities (steam, water, and electricity), and H2 sources (manufacturers) and sinks (end customers). Steam methane reforming (SMR) process is used as an intermediate linkage between both networks. To obtain an optimal design of the IUHSN reflecting the reality, we develop a mathematical model which is formulated as multi-period stochastic mixed integer linear programming concerning uncertain raw material prices. This model allows identification of a promising design strategy to minimize total supply cost, because sources and sinks can be connected to each other to transfer unused resources and products.