Optimal design of greenfield energy hubs in the context of carbon neutral energy supply

Abstract

This paper proposes a sequential co-optimization (SCO) framework for the design of greenfield energy hubs, aiming to achieve net zero emissions. The SCO framework offers an evolutionary approach to long-term planning and operation, taking into account various evolving factors such as carbon emission policies, technological and economic advancements in energy supply components, changes in land-use, and developments at different stages of the design horizon. The framework ensures that the design of greenfield developments aligns with their evolving characteristics, determining the optimal dispatch flow for firming renewable energy through co-generation and demand flexibility options like smart loads, electric vehicles, and hydrogen-based systems. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to study the impact of emissions, evolving characteristics of greenfield developments, and techno-economic aspects of supply units on the energy hub design. Case studies demonstrate that the proposed design enables large-scale distributed energy systems to meet local energy demand and participate in the electricity market. The SCO framework provides a robust and flexible platform for the correlated optimization of planning and operation of greenfield energy hubs, for advancing towards net zero emissions.