Hydrogen valley: study about hydrogen production and end-use in an industrial location in Northern Italy

In this thesis, a possible future hydrogen valley near Villadossola is discussed. After a general overview on green hydrogen compared with other fuels and other varieties of hydrogen, classified according to the production process, we investigate its possible distribution chain, future cost forecasts and how legislation may intervene. The operativity of the existing hydroelectric power plants under auction for a total size of 8MW base load, and the design of the future 6MW peak photovoltaic park are also analyzed. Concerning the latter an analytical and design discussion is proposed. Electrolyzers for a size of 8MW will be connected both to the hydroelectric power plants and to the photovoltaic park. Their existing types, and those of storage systems, will be classified in order to adopt the best solution according to the needs. Finally, the possible end users of hydrogen will be divided into three main areas: hydrogen for industries, for transportation and process hydrogen for chemical industry.