Constructing an innovative Bio-Hydrogen Integrated Renewable Energy System

Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRES) offer alternative energy options that deliver distributed power generation for isolated loads. However, the production of energy from both wind turbines and solar PV systems is weather-dependent. In this study, we developed an innovative Bio-Hydrogen Integrated Renewable Energy System (BHIRES) based on the integration of hydrogen generation from biomass fermentation, renewable energy power generation, hydrogen generation from water electrolysis, a hydrogen storage device, and a fuel cell providing combined heat and power. BHIRES can provide electric power, thermal energy, and hydrogen, with the additional function of processing biomass waste and wastewater. As indicated by results of the economic analysis conducted in this study, the cost of electricity and the average energy cost of using BHIRES are both lower than those for wind/PV/hydrogen HRES. Therefore, this system is ideal for users in remote areas such as islands, and farms in mountainous areas.