Double-layer power optimisation and regulation method for hydro-photovoltaic hydrogen production ammonia synthesis coupling system

• Construct a novel coupled system structure of hydro-photovoltaic hydrogen production ammonia synthesis. • Propose a double-layer power optimization and control method for a coupled hydro-photovoltaic hydrogen synthesis ammonia system, integrating economic optimization and real-time regulation based on model predictive control (MPC). • Develop an economic optimization model that enhances system benefits by balancing operating costs, revenues, and the start-stop costs of the hydrogen production unit. • Introduce a real-time power optimization framework using MPC to track multiple objectives and constraints, ensuring operational flexibility and reliability. To achieve a balance between economic performance and operational reliability in a coupled hydro–photovoltaic hydrogen-to-ammonia system, and to improve its operational flexibility, this paper proposes a double-layer power optimisation and control strategy based on model predictive control (MPC). In the upper-layer economic optimisation and scheduling module, a cost-benefit optimisation model is developed that considers internal revenue, operation and maintenance costs, and the start-up/shutdown costs of the hydrogen production units, aiming to maximise the overall economic benefits of system operation. In the lower-layer real-time control module, a real-time power optimisation method is introduced, which leverages the MPC framework to track multiple operational targets under dynamic constraints, using the economically optimised baseline power as a reference. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through a case study on a typical operating day. The results demonstrate that the proposed dual-layer control framework enables flexible and efficient operation of integrated electro-hydrogen-ammonia systems, offering valuable insights for the deep integration of renewable energy and the advancement of sustainable energy systems.