Feasibility analysis of green hydrogen production systems for decarbonized heating applications: a dynamic modelling approach on simulink

This paper presents a dynamic model of a hydrogen production system aimed at residential heating applications, utilizing MATLAB® and Simulink® softwares. The global model is divided into different macro-sections, each covering a specific role in the hydrogen production and distribution process. These include the photovoltaic field, the electrolyzer, the short-term and long-term storage sections and the end-users. The graphical interface of Simulink is employed, with particular reliance placed on the Simscape library for the modelling and simulation of physical lines. The control logic that governs the operation of the system is implemented using the Simulink tool Stateflow, thereby ensuring efficient management of hydrogen production, storage, and distribution phases. Two distinct scenarios are analysed, each considering different weather data, thermal demand distribution and infrastructure configuration. For each Scenario, simulation results provided a detailed trend of PV power production and electrolyser power consumption, hydrogen production, variations in storage tank pressures, as well as power consumption by auxiliary systems. A comparative analysis with fossil fuel sources is then assessed by calculating the overall reduction of CO2 emissions due to green hydrogen production. In conclusion, this paper provides a comprehensive framework for modelling, simulating, and evaluating green hydrogen production systems, offering insights into their potential as sustainable energy solutions for residential heating decarbonization.