Dr Nazmiye Balta-Ozkan, Policy Studies Institute
Hydrogen (H2) technologies and infrastructures can play significant roles in meeting the objectives of the UK energy policy. In particular, they offer potential contributions in reaching 60% CO2 emissions reductions target by 2050 (especially in transport sector where it is harder to decarbonize) as well as maintaining reliability of energy supply. However, in analyzing these roles a whole energy system view needs to be taken into account as H2 is not a primary fuel on its own, rather it competes with other parts of the energy system. Also, due to difficulties and expenses of distribution, a H2 infrastructure might develop in a geographically dependent nature. This paper presents how these key issues can be addressed in an energy systems modelling framework by the use of geographic information systems tools.
In particular, the UK MARKAL energy system model is extended to represent 12 demand regions and six supply options and infrastructure choices to link the two. In this spatially disaggregated modelling structure, H2 technologies and infrastructures compete with alternate technology choices in meeting regional transport energy service demands. Hence, the approach lends itself to analyse various questions that might be key to H2 infrastructure development in the U.K: For example, if H2 technologies are to be subsidized in London, how will the overall UK energy system respond? If a more stringent target of 80% CO2 target was to be adopted, would large scale H2 generation facilities be an efficient option? What H2 infrastructures (small or large scale) would prevail under various scenarios as the least-cost options?
Post your comments and questions for the speakers here