Work

Techno‐Economic Analysis of Solar‐Wind Hybrid Systems for Green Hydrogen Production in South Africa, KwaZulu‐Natal Province

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Rising global energy demand and the climate crisis have intensified the pursuit of renewable energy, with green hydrogen emerging as a key alternative to fossil fuels. South Africa, heavily reliant on coal‐based energy, faces pressure to decarbonize and transition to a green economy. In this study, the techno‐economic feasibility of producing green hydrogen via seawater electrolysis with the Durban climatic conditions for a hybrid solar‐wind battery system. Hybrid optimization of multiple energy resources (HOMER) was used to simulate and compare three configured systems (PV, wind and hybrid PV‐wind battery) on net present cost (NPC), levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH), and levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The hybrid system proved most effective, yielding LCOH of $8.94/kg and 45.8 tons/year of hydrogen, outperforming the standalone systems. With 97.5% excess electricity generated, the system supports scalability for grid integration, positioning green hydrogen as a viable, cost‐effective path toward a sustainable energy future for South Africa.

Source: Energy Science & Engineering

DOI: 10.1002/ese3.70257

Authors: Sandile Mtolo, Sudesh Rathilal, Nomcebo Happiness Mthombeni, Katleho Moloi, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh

Institution: Durban University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems

Subfield: Energy Engineering and Power Technology

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,780