User-centric renewable energy framework for self-sufficient zero-carbon infrastructure in high-altitude regions

Abstract The achievement of carbon neutrality in high-altitude regions faces dual challenges of ecological fragility and regional poverty, where renewable-energy-powered infrastructure presents a promising solution. However, current designs lack user-centric approaches that tangibly support local development. This study proposes a user-centric Photovoltaic-Battery-to-Vehicle framework that turns predictable tourist passenger flows from an operational burden into a strategic asset. The approach uses electric vehicle charging to absorb surplus solar generation during peak summer demand, eliminating costly seasonal storage. Here we show that deployment across the plateau’s railway stations increases photovoltaic self-consumption by 14.3–20.3% and economic returns by 55.3–61.1% while enabling near-zero carbon operation. This research provides a scalable blueprint for demand-driven renewable energy systems in extreme plateau environments, transforming infrastructure decarbonization in vulnerable ecosystems.