Hydrogen and electricity production from Mount Cameroon’s energy potential: Seismic imaging, techno-environmental-socio-economic assessment, and sensitivity considerations of a zero-carbon Fuel cell/Geothermal/Electrolyzer hybrid system

Geothermal energy represents a sustainable and low-carbon resource with strong potential to support decentralized energy systems in volcanic regions. In underexplored areas such as Mount Cameroon, accurate assessment and optimal utilization of geothermal resources are critical for reliable energy supply. Recent global seismic tomography models indicate a pronounced shear-wave low-velocity anomaly beneath Mount Cameroon, suggesting elevated subsurface temperatures consistent with geothermal potential. Building on this geophysical evidence, this study proposes an off-grid hybrid energy system integrating geothermal power, and fuel cell technology to simultaneously supply electricity and hydrogen. A comprehensive techno-economic, environmental, and sensitivity considerations were taken into account using HOMER Pro to identify the optimal system configuration under local demand conditions. The load profile shows recurrent peaks, requiring a flexible and dispatchable hybrid system. Results indicate that the optimal configuration comprises a 110 kW geothermal steam turbine, a 50 kW fuel cell, a 10 kW electrolyzer, a 25.5 kW power converter, and a 20 kg hydrogen storage tank. This system achieves reliable power supply with a net present cost of approximately US$ 1.84 million and a levelized cost of energy of US$ 0.465/kWh, while ensuring zero direct carbon emissions. Sensitivity analyses reveal that system economics are most influenced by fuel cell capital and replacement costs. The proposed hybrid system demonstrates the technical feasibility and economic viability of coupling geothermal energy with hydrogen technologies in volcanic regions. The results highlight its potential as a replicable solution for clean, resilient, and decentralized energy access in remote and underserved communities.