Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems: Integration of Urban Mobility Through Metal Hydrides Solution as an Enabling Technology for Increasing Self-Sufficiency

Lorenzo Bartolucci (), Edoardo Cennamo, Stefano Cordiner, Vincenzo Mulone and Alessandro Polimeni ()
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Lorenzo Bartolucci: Department of Industrial Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
Edoardo Cennamo: Department of Industrial Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
Stefano Cordiner: Department of Industrial Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
Vincenzo Mulone: Department of Industrial Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
Alessandro Polimeni: Department of Industrial Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 19, 1-24

Abstract: The ongoing energy transition and decarbonization efforts have prompted the development of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRES) capable of integrating multiple generation and storage technologies to enhance energy autonomy. Among the available options, hydrogen has emerged as a versatile energy carrier, yet most studies have focused either on stationary applications or on mobility, seldom addressing their integration withing a single framework. In particular, the potential of Metal Hydride (MH) tanks remains largely underexplored in the context of sector coupling, where the same storage unit can simultaneously sustain household demand and provide in-house refueling for light-duty fuel-cell vehicles. This study presents the design and analysis of a residential-scale HRES that combines photovoltaic generation, a PEM electrolyzer, a lithium-ion battery and MH storage intended for direct integration with a fuel-cell electric microcar. A fully dynamic numerical model was developed to evaluate system interactions and quantify the conditions under which low-pressure MH tanks can be effectively integrated into HRES, with particular attention to thermal management and seasonal variability. Two simulation campaigns were carried out to provide both component-level and system-level insights. The first focused on thermal management during hydrogen absorption in the MH tank, comparing passive and active cooling strategies. Forced convection reduced absorption time by 44% compared to natural convection, while avoiding the additional energy demand associated with thermostatic baths. The second campaign assessed seasonal operation: even under winter irradiance conditions, the system ensured continuous household supply and enabled full recharge of two MH tanks every six days, in line with the hydrogen requirements of the light vehicle daily commuting profile. Battery support further reduced grid reliance, achieving a Grid Dependency Factor as low as 28.8% and enhancing system autonomy during cold periods.

Keywords: sustainability; hybridization; metal hydride storage; hydrogen; energy system (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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