Comparative evaluation of hydrogen transport and storage options for combined cycle power plants: Expert survey-based benefit analysis and risk mitigation strategies for optimal system design

In South Korea, three hydrogen–natural gas co-firing gas turbine demonstration projects—300 MW Ulsan, 150 MW Shin-Incheon, and 150 MW Seo-Incheon—were launched in April 2023. These projects are currently in the detailed design and construction phases, with commercial operation expected by 2028. As combined-cycle power plants depend on externally supplied hydrogen, the development of an efficient and safe transport and storage system is critical to ensuring a stable hydrogen supply. To support the South Korean government’s initiative to expand hydrogen transport and storage infrastructure, this study systematically developed four practical hydrogen supply design options using pipeline and tube trailer systems. The options were derived based on key factors such as the proximity of hydrogen production facilities, supply pressure requirements, and the availability of transport infrastructure. Additionally, a targeted survey was conducted with 30 experts from the decarbonized energy sector to identify the optimal hydrogen transport and storage solution. Responses were quantitatively analyzed using eight evaluation criteria: technical maturity, cost-effectiveness (initial investment), cost-effectiveness (long-term use), supply stability, comprehensive safety, administrative feasibility, space requirements, and public acceptance. The results identified Case 2—which supplies hydrogen via pipelines at pressures exceeding those required by the gas turbines—as the most efficient and effective option overall. However, Case 2 demonstrated drawbacks including low cost-effectiveness (initial investment), and challenges related to technical maturity, safety assurance, and public acceptance. These limitations may act as barriers to the adoption of this technology. To address these issues, a strategy was proposed to enhance safety and increase public acceptance by applying the Swiss cheese model. This approach establishes a multilayered safety system for hydrogen transport and storage in combined-cycle power plants, incorporating hazard identification, prevention, mitigation, monitoring, and follow-up measure.