Holistic evaluation of the roles and values of electrolysers in a net-zero energy system

Departing from silo approaches, this paper presents a holistic methodology for assessing the benefits of integrating optimally selected electrolysers within a Net Zero Energy system. The optimisation addresses large-scale multi-energy system planning, considering the interactions among low-carbon generation technologies, such as renewables, energy storage, and smart demand response, while accounting for the spatial and temporal dynamics of energy sources and demand. The value of electrolysers is evaluated through a comparison of system capacity portfolios and operational costs between scenarios with and without electrolysers. The analysis focuses on future energy scenarios in Great Britain, exploring various assumptions to identify the value drivers and needs for electrolysers and their optimal distribution in the system. Results highlight the role of electrolysers in enhancing system balancing and energy storage capabilities, promoting sector coupling between electricity and hydrogen systems. This synergy enables low-cost hydrogen storage and generation, which is essential for providing ancillary services and ensuring energy system resilience. The paper also explores insights from sensitivity studies regarding the impacts of varying costs for low-carbon technologies, gas prices, and the flexibility provided by end-use customers and distributed storage.