Transient analysis and optimization of an off-grid hydrogen and electric vehicle charging station with temporary residences

Abstract

In this research study, an off-grid zero energy refueling station for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles with the ability to charge battery-powered electric vehicles is designed and analyzed transiently. A temporary residence next to the charging station is designed to accommodate people who come to the charging station. The best energy supplier in terms of cost is determined. The insulation thickness of the temporary residence wall is optimized for five types of insulation and thickness between 0 to 0.7 m. Total cost over 20 years (system lifetime) is an objective function that should be minimized. Using Trnsys software, the charging station and temporary residence are simulated. The system's total costs for different insulation type and thickness is predicted using a machine-learning approach. The optimum insulation type and thickness are determined. According to the results, choosing a photovoltaic panel as a power source is up to 33,024 $ more cost-effective than wind energy for the mentioned system. The optimal insulation thickness is related to expanded polystyrene with a thickness of 0.24 m. Insulation thickness and type can affect the system's total cost intensively. The cheapest insulation is not the best in reducing total cost.