Unlocking Green Hydrogen Potential in Australia Through Hybrid Renewable Energy Sources
Key Ideas
  • A techno-economic framework is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of producing green hydrogen in Australia using a mix of wind and solar power.
  • The study emphasizes the importance of precise resource assessment for determining the most cost-effective approach to green hydrogen production.
  • Findings highlight that a 50% solar–50% wind configuration in Edithburgh, South Australia, offers the lowest hydrogen production cost of 10.3 ¢USD/Nm3.
  • The research suggests that comprehensive analysis is crucial for developing green hydrogen plants that can efficiently produce low-cost hydrogen.
The study by Bagheri et al. from the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology at the University of Tokyo presents a detailed analysis of the potential for green hydrogen production in Australia by harnessing a combination of wind and solar energy sources. The research introduces a techno-economic framework designed to assist industry decision-makers in evaluating the viability of utilizing hybrid renewable resources for cost-effective hydrogen production. By integrating 10-minute on-ground solar and wind data, conducting high-resolution power dispatch simulations, and considering operational thresholds of electrolyzers, the model aims to provide a reliable methodology for assessing renewable resource availability. The study focuses on five specific locations in Australia and utilizes high-frequency resource data to quantify the availability of solar and wind energy. Through a meticulous simulation of power dispatch for a large off-grid plant, the research evaluates various factors such as the PV/wind ratio, element capacities, and cost variables to determine the most efficient configuration for green hydrogen production. The results highlight that while some locations may not be conducive to cost-effective hydrogen production due to high capital investments, a 50% solar–50% wind setup in Edithburgh, South Australia, stands out with the lowest hydrogen production cost. Moreover, the study underscores the significance of accurate and comprehensive resource assessment in the development of green hydrogen production facilities aimed at generating low-cost hydrogen. By emphasizing the importance of detailed analysis and precise evaluation of renewable resources, the research provides valuable insights for the advancement of green hydrogen technologies in Australia and beyond.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.