Andrea Vaccaro
Future clean hydrogen potential from surplus energy: A techno-economic analysis.
Rel. Massimo Santarelli. Politecnico di Torino, Master of science program in Energy And Nuclear Engineering, 2025
Abstract
Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a pivotal energy carrier in the global transition to- ward net-zero emissions, particularly in hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as industry and transportation. This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of low-carbon hydrogen production pathways, focusing on electrolysis and thermochemical cycles. Special em- phasis is placed on the Copper-Chlorine (Cu-Cl) thermochemical cycle and electrolyzer technologies, examining their integration with renewable and nuclear energy systems. The electrolysis pathway is assessed by evaluating alkaline, PEM, and solid oxide elec- trolyzers in terms of energy efficiency, technological maturity, and compatibility with intermittent renewable sources. A dedicated analysis investigates the global hydrogen pro- duction potential from surplus solar, wind, and nuclear energy over the period 2023–2050.
Focusing on the years 2023, 2030, and 2050, the study models hydrogen output, elec- trolyzer capital costs, and hydrogen prices under both 100% and 50% surplus utilization scenarios, accounting for a 2% annual inflation rate
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