Synergistic Enviro-Economic Evaluation of a Solar-Green Hydrogen Hybrid System (SGHHS) for Continuous Clean Energy Using a Region-Specific Techno-Economic and Environmental Framework

This study assesses the techno-economic and environmental feasibility of a Solar–Green Hydrogen Hybrid System (SGHHS) designed for Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The system combines a 22.75 MWp photovoltaic array, a 2.25 MW Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzer, 450 kg hydrogen storage, and a 1 MW fuel cell to supply a continuous 1 MW daytime and 0.6 MW nighttime load. High-resolution climatic data and HOMER Pro simulations guided component optimization and validation. Results indicate a capital cost of USD 19 million and a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of USD 0.10/kWh, competitive with fossil-fuel benchmarks. Over a 25-year lifespan, the system avoids approximately 157,542 metric tons of CO2 emissions. Seasonal analyses confirm hydrogen storage as an effective buffer during winter deficits. The findings highlight SGHHS as a viable pathway to enhance energy security, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and contribute to Pakistan’s decarbonization targets.