Optimizing carbon emission reduction in hybrid microgrids: A case study integrating photovoltaics and hydrogen energy systems

The reliance on fossil fuels for energy consumption in Diyarbakır leads to environmental pollution and high costs, making the transition to renewable energy imperative. However, the challenges associated with the continuous generation of energy from these sources require sustainable solutions. The simulation results indicate that through the use of hydrogen and renewable energy technologies, 0.0254% of Türkiye’s targeted 695 Mt CO₂ reduction by 2030 can be achieved solely through the efforts undertaken within this project. Failure to address this issue will result in increased dependence on fossil fuels and escalating environmental damages. In this study, the integration of hydrogen production and renewable energy was simulated in a neighborhood close to a water source in Diyarbakır using the Homer Pro analysis software. Proximity to the water source facilitates the supply of water required for hydrogen production, making the production processes more economical and sustainable. It also enhances efficiency in the electrolysis process, with the cost of hydrogen production calculated at $4.50/kg and energy cost at $0.08301/kWh. These results demonstrate that the integration of hydrogen and renewable energy offers a sustainable solution both economically and environmentally.