A Mixed Integer Linear Programming Model for Optimal Sizing of Hydrogen Refueling Station Powered Using a PV-Grid System

This paper presents a mixed integer linear programming model for sizing green hydrogen refueling station driven by a photovoltaic grid-connected system. The developed model aims to determine the capacity of the station’s components and the optimal configuration of the on-grid PV system. The objective is to minimize the life cycle cost of the hydrogen refueling station while considering various constraints, including the station’s energy requirement, powering system reliability, land availability, and upper and lower bounds of decision variables. The effectiveness of the developed model is assessed under the weather conditions of Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The station is estimated to produce 152 kg of hydrogen to meet the daily demand of 100 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. A total of 1772 PV solar panels are required to meet a portion of the station’s energy needs. The energy shortage is covered by the grid. The economic assessment yields that the energy cost is 0.18 $/kWh and the hydrogen cost is 4.97 $/kg. This study offers valuable insights into the efficient allocation of PVs and grid, ensuring reliable hydrogen production. The findings contribute to advancing green hydrogen infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and facilitate the transition toward greener transportation.