Evaluating Techno-Economic Feasibility of Green Hydrogen Production Integrated with a Wave Energy Converter Device

The urgent need to address climate change has driven the exploration of sustainable energy solutions, with wave energy and green hydrogen emerging as prominent alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. This study examines the potential synergy between wave energy and hydrogen production, with a focus on the economic viability of integrating these technologies. Through a detailed analysis of the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) and the levelised cost of hydrogen (LCOH), this paper examines how coastal regions in Portugal and across Western Europe can harness wave energy to produce green hydrogen, a crucial component in the global energy transition. The techno-economic assessment accounts for capital and operational costs, energy efficiency, and lifetime performance to determine how design and location affect economic feasibility. Preliminary analysis indicates that regions with significant wave power potential present opportunities for competitive LCOE values, with some coastal areas achieving LCOE figures as low as 0.10 €/kWh. Additionally, the LCOH analysis reveals that among various storage methods, compressed gas hydrogen at 350 bar stands out as the most cost-effective option. This research highlights the transformative potential of wave energy-driven hydrogen production as a crucial solution for decarbonising the maritime sector. Future technological advancements and cost efficiencies are poised to overcome current economic barriers and accelerate the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon energy landscape.