Figure 1: Required energy and economic model

Methodology for Green Hydrogen Systems 

As you can see the intricate nature of designing hydrogen systems requires a holistic integration of various components including energy, economics, resources, and processes. Our approach emphasises a comprehensive energy balance to seamlessly integrate diverse processes and technologies ensuring system wide harmony and efficiency.  

Additionally, we adopt a techno-economic methodology to determine the optimal system architecture and sizing of the components. By adopting this approach, we aim to address challenges inherent in green hydrogen system design and optimise the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the system.  

This transition represents a fundamental change in generating and distributing power by prioritising sustainability, reliability, resilience, safety, and integrating renewable energy sources to produce green hydrogen while supporting various essential functions.  

Our proposed methodology for green hydrogen systems shifts away from conventional models towards a multiyear approach. Conventional models often fail to capture the dynamic nature of hydrogen projects, which unfold over extended periods and are influenced by factors such as technology advancements, policy changes, and market trends. By adopting a multiyear approach, stakeholders can better understand the long-term viability and potential challenges associated with green hydrogen projects.  

Moreover, while capital expenditure (CAPEX) considerations are typically at the forefront of project evaluations, delving into operational expenditure (OPEX) aspects is equally essential. OPEX encompasses the ongoing costs associated with hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilisation and can significantly impact a project’s overall economic feasibility and sustainability. Neglecting to assess OPEX thoroughly can lead to unforeseen financial burdens and hinder the project’s long-term success.  

Holistic Approach for Successful Development 

A holistic approach is therefore imperative for successfully developing, designing, and modelling Green Hydrogen Systems. The optimal system architecture is achieved through a system integration method that recognises the interconnected nature of all system components. Thus, understanding each component’s inputs, outputs, and constraints is critical for the design process. 

Methodology for Bridging Gaps in Disciplines 

Establishing a clear methodology for designing hydrogen projects has been essential for SJ/SMEC in effectively bridging gaps between various disciplines. Our innovative methodology outlines the scientific steps necessary to develop feasible, reliable, and safe projects—setting a foundation for success in this rapidly evolving field. Our holistic approach will help our clients define the optimal system’s size and architecture using a system integration method since all system components are interconnected. Acknowledging the interconnectivity of all system components (Figure 2). The inputs, outputs, and constraints of each component are critical for the design of this type of system. 

Figure 2: General Methodology for Green Hydrogen Projects

This systematic approach provides a techno-economical solution to clients, delivering the information required to seek project bankability and feasibility. 

The development of Green Hydrogen Systems is crucial for advancing sustainable energy solutions, as highlighted by the S2H2 methodology from Surbana Jurong (SJ) and SMEC. This innovative approach combines traditional systems engineering with modern techniques to enhance performance, reliability, and sustainability throughout the project lifecycle. By focusing on interdisciplinary collaboration, data integration, and dynamic modelling, the methodology addresses the complexities of renewable energy sources and hydrogen production. The findings emphasise the necessity of a coordinated strategy to optimise resource utilisation while minimising costs, ultimately contributing to the feasibility and success of green hydrogen projects in an evolving energy landscape. 

For a more detailed confidential discussion or to access the full paper on our state-of-the-art Green Hydrogen methodology please contact marketing@smec.com or complete the form below.