Energy analysis and greenhouse gas emissions intensity of green hydrogen production by a 1 MW innovative Proton Conducting Ceramic Electrolysis system

Abstract This study focuses on the energy and environmental performance assessment of a 1 MW PCCEL system, currently in the early stages of development (Technology Readiness Level 3–4) and at the core of the European project PROTOSTACK. PCCEL technology enables the production of pure, dry, and pressurized hydrogen (15 bar) at intermediate temperatures (600°C), achieving high energy efficiency (40 kWh/kg). The performance evaluation is conducted through a numerical model developed in the Aspen Plus TM environment, which allows for the calculation of water consumption, hydrogen and oxygen production, energy demand, and system efficiency. These numerical results are used to estimate the greenhouse gas emissions associated with hydrogen production via the PCCEL system, when powered by various energy sources, including natural gas, diesel, and renewables. The results show that, in 2021, Ireland, Sweden, Finland, France, Lithuania, and Denmark are among the leading European countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions when fossil electricity is used, while Poland and Cyprus are among the most impactful in terms of emissions. To further explore the potential for sustainable hydrogen production, renewable energy sources are also considered for powering the PCCEL system. In this scenario, wind and hydropower exhibit the lowest environmental impacts. Finally, the study examines the effect of replacing an electric heater with a boiler, thus considering the thermal energy consumption. In this case, diesel results in higher CO 2eq emissions compared to the other fuels analyzed.