4E analysis of an integrated ATR-SOEC hydrogen co-production system for deep decarbonization: Energy, exergy, economic, and environmental impacts

초록

To achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions must be continuously removed. Conventional hydrogen (H2) production processes such as steam methane reforming and autothermal reforming (ATR) generate relatively high levels of CO2 emissions, and low-carbon H2 production via electrolysis requires high electricity consumption. Hence, to simultaneously achieve CO2 reduction targets and H2 production via conventional processes in line with CO2 reduction policies, H2 production strategies are required. In this study, a process employing an integrated ATR–solid-oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) process is proposed for addressing the dual challenges of achieving future CO2 reduction targets and meeting the increasing H2 demand. A techno-economic and environmental analysis is performed. The energy and exergy efficiencies of the proposed hybrid ATR–SOEC process increased by 15.5% and 67.0%, respectively, compared with the base process. These increases are attributable to the integration of heat and the additional installation of an SOEC unit. Furthermore, an 11.5% decrease in the levelized cost of H2 production (LCOHp) and a 49.7% decrease in CO2 emissions were observed. The LCOHp was calculated and analyzed by considering country-specific carbon taxes, electricity costs, and power sources. Additionally, the cost of procuring natural gas and electricity was identified as the primary cost driver influencing economic performance in uncertain conditions. The findings of this study may contribute to the development of a sustainable solution for reducing future CO2 emissions, based on conventional H2 production processes. Copyright © 2026. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

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