Exploring Renewable-Powered Hydrogen Production Systems: A Critical Review of Case Studies-Based Pathways, Cost-Benefit Analysis, and Environmental Assessment

Abstract: The shift towards an alternative source of energy is a pressing priority. Hydrogen, a carbon free energy with a high energy density, is promising but faces high production costs and inadequate resources required to make it efficient. This paper presents a comprehensive techno-economic analysis and life-cycle assessment of chemical hydrogen production technologies, which have the potential to produce green hydrogen when integrated with renewable energy systems, while focusing on the environmental and economic impacts of different methods. Steam methane reforming remains the dominant hydrogen production method, but it is highly carbon-intensive, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Water electrolysis, when driven by renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy, offers a cleaner alternative. Industrial electrolysers currently require 4.5–5 kWh/m³ of electricity, posing a significant challenge for economic viability. Hybrid renewable energy systems combining PV, wind turbines, and biogas generators demonstrate promising efficiency, with the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) and Cost of Hydrogen (COH) at 0.44 $/kWh and 22.3 $/kg respectively. The proposed system comprises 310.24 kW of photovoltaic (PV) capacity, 690 kW of wind turbines, and 100 kW of biogas generation, designed not only to produce hydrogen but also to generate electricity, with hydrogen serving as an energy storage medium. The environmental impacts were assessed using various indicators, showing that hydrogen produced through renewable energy significantly reduces ozone depletion potential and particulate matter emissions. The renewable energy scenario demonstrates a 65% reduction in carcinogenic effects and ionizing radiation indicators, emphasizing the environmental benefits of transitioning to green hydrogen.