Dynamic operation and economic performance of a photovoltaic-driven green ammonia system

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Chinese explanation / 中文解读

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Original abstract

Green ammonia, as an important zero-carbon energy carrier and hydrogen storage medium, has broad application prospects in large-scale renewable energy integration and chemical energy storage. With the continuous growth of installed photovoltaic capacity, photovoltaic-driven water electrolysis coupled with ammonia synthesis has been recognized as a representative pathway for green ammonia production. However, most existing studies are based on steady-state or quasi-steady assumptions and fail to adequately capture the impacts of photovoltaic power variability and intermittency on system performance. In this study, a photovoltaic-driven green ammonia system is investigated. Process simulation and dynamic modeling are developed using Aspen Plus and MATLAB to analyze the dynamic performance and economic characteristics under full-year operating conditions. The results show pronounced seasonal variations in system performance, with ammonia production, heat supply, and power generation fluctuating with solar irradiation. The levelized cost of ammonia (LCOA) is calculated to be 8,406 CNY·t⁻¹ NH₃, and sensitivity analysis indicates that electrolyzer capital cost and electricity price are the dominant economic factors, while the integrated utilization of waste heat and by-product oxygen can moderately improve system economics. The results provide guidance for the design and operation of photovoltaic-driven ammonia systems under non-steady conditions.

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