Transitioning from Oil Export to Hydrogen Via Solar, Wind, and Heccgt

Abstract

Abdulwahab Rawesat, Gali Musa and Pericles Pilidis

The analysis focuses on a decarbonization strategy for an oil-exporting country, emphasizing the transition to renewable energy sources through two key scenarios. A baseline is provided, showing individual results for three power generation technologies: solar, wind, and helium closed-cycle gas turbines (HeCCGT). Building on this baseline, the first key scenario explores the combined potential of solar and wind energy, with the H2CCGT (Mean hydrogen combined gas turbine) serving as a backup power generation source when solar and wind resources are unavailable. This scenario provides insights into the combined capacities of solar and wind, their land requirements, and the necessary infrastructure to support continuous energy supply and large-scale hydrogen production. The second scenario advances the analysis by integrating HeCCGT helium closed-cycle gas turbines with solar and wind power, effectively eliminating the need for H2CCGT as a backup. The helium closed-cycle gas turbine works in tandem with solar and wind energy to provide a consistent and reliable power supply, even when solar and wind conditions are not optimal. This scenario also emphasizes the infrastructure required to support an export-oriented hydrogen production strategy, targeting an output of 2100 PJ or 17.5 MT of hydrogen. This strategic analysis serves as a comprehensive guide for understanding the technical and logistical requirements for transitioning from fossil fuels to a sustainable energy system. The study highlights the potential for the country to become a global leader in the hydrogen economy, supported by a diversified and resilient renewable energy infrastructure.

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