Techno-economic optimization of multi-output energy hubs with integrated storage systems and electrolyzers

Despite significant research on the management of optimal energy hubs (EHs), a deficiency persists in examining the impact of energy storage systems on the techno-economic and emission-centric design of multi-output EHs. This paper examines the optimal dimensions of a multi-output energy hub (EH) aimed at maximizing net income and revenue while efficiently supporting contemporary hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFVC) through renewable energy sources (RES), heat, hydrogen, gas, and water networks, in addition to electrolyzer technologies, demand response, and storage systems for batteries, thermal energy, and hydrogen. An extensive optimization strategy employing mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) has been formulated, accompanied by a risk-aware methodology using information gap analysis to address uncertainties in renewable energy sources (RES), demand, and price fluctuations in energy hub operations. Scheduling solutions have been formulated to address preferences that are uncertainty-free, risk-averse, and risk-seeking, corresponding to cautious, balanced, and aggressive dispositions, respectively. A reliability-oriented sensitivity study performed over 48 h assesses the effects of constraints, such as maximum capacity limits, on the operation of the energy storage system. The results demonstrate that battery storage systems outperform in techno-economic efficiency for reliable energy harvesting; nevertheless, hydrogen storage systems yield 17.89% lower emissions at a 1.68% higher cost. An alkaline electrolyzer is more economical and versatile than a solid oxide electrolyzer due to its superior performance in combined cooling and heating applications, whereas the solid oxide electrolyzer incurs greater gas expenses. The enhanced EH model reduces daily operational expenses, achieving a 20% drop in energy usage and fostering sustainability.