As the global imperative for deep decarbonization intensifies, hydrogen is rapidly emerging as a versatile and critical energy carrier with the potential to revolutionize various sectors, particularly within power systems. Its unique ability to store and transport energy, act as a clean fuel for electricity generation, and serve as a feedstock for industrial processes positions it as a cornerstone for achieving net-zero emissions. Unlike direct electricity, hydrogen can provide long-duration energy storage, offer seasonal flexibility, and enable the integration of vast amounts of intermittent renewable energy by converting surplus electricity into storable hydrogen (Power-to-X). The development of a robust hydrogen economy is seen as essential for balancing electricity grids with high renewable penetration, providing clean backup power, and decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors. Without a comprehensive understanding of the entire hydrogen value chain and its specific applications within the power sector, energy professionals risk missing out on transformative opportunities for grid resilience, sustainability, and economic growth in the new energy paradigm. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Hydrogen in Power Systems.

This training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, power system planners, renewable energy developers, policy makers, researchers, and project managers with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to integrate and leverage hydrogen in power systems effectively. Participants will gain a deep understanding of hydrogen production methods (especially green hydrogen), explore hydrogen storage and transportation technologies, learn about the various ways hydrogen can generate electricity (fuel cells, gas turbines), and acquire skills in assessing the techno-economic viability and environmental impact of hydrogen projects within the energy grid. The course will delve into topics such as Power-to-Hydrogen (P2H), hydrogen blending in natural gas networks, hydrogen-fueled power plants, the role of hydrogen in grid flexibility and resilience, safety considerations, and the evolving regulatory and market frameworks supporting hydrogen deployment. By mastering the principles and practical application of Hydrogen in Power Systems, participants will be prepared to contribute significantly to the design, implementation, and optimization of innovative, low-carbon energy solutions that are crucial for a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Electrical Engineers (Power Generation, Transmission, Distribution)
• Renewable Energy Project Developers
• Power System Planners and Modellers
• Energy Storage Developers
• Utility Executives and Managers
• Policy Makers and Regulators in the Energy Sector
• Researchers in Clean Energy Technologies
• Industrial Sector Professionals (e.g., steel, chemical) interested in decarbonization
• Project Managers for Energy Infrastructure
• Environmental Consultants in the Energy Sector

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental properties of hydrogen as an energy carrier.
• Learn about the various methods of hydrogen production, with a focus on green hydrogen.
• Acquire skills in analyzing hydrogen storage and transportation technologies.
• Comprehend techniques for utilizing hydrogen for electricity generation (fuel cells, turbines).
• Explore strategies for integrating Power-to-Hydrogen (P2H) into power systems.
• Understand the importance of hydrogen blending in natural gas grids for decarbonization.
• Gain insights into the role of hydrogen in grid flexibility and long-duration storage.
• Develop a practical understanding of safety regulations and risk management for hydrogen.
• Learn about economic and financial viability analysis for hydrogen projects in power systems.
• Master the environmental impact assessment of hydrogen production and use.
• Acquire skills in modeling and simulating hydrogen integration in energy systems.
• Understand the evolving policy and regulatory landscape for hydrogen.
• Explore advanced hydrogen technologies and future research directions.
• Develop proficiency in assessing the infrastructure requirements for a hydrogen economy.
• Prepare to contribute to the planning and implementation of hydrogen-enabled power solutions.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier

• Properties of hydrogen: energy density, physical characteristics.
• The role of hydrogen in the global energy transition and decarbonization goals.
• Hydrogen as an energy carrier vs. primary energy source.
• Concept of the "hydrogen economy" and its various applications.
• Challenges and opportunities for hydrogen in the power sector.

Module 2: Hydrogen Production Methods

• Classification of hydrogen: gray, blue, green, turquoise, pink, etc.
• Traditional methods: Steam Methane Reforming (SMR) and coal gasification.
• Focus on Green Hydrogen: Water Electrolysis (Alkaline, PEM, SOEC).
• Technologies for producing green hydrogen: electrolyzer types, efficiency, cost.
• Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) for blue hydrogen.

Module 3: Electrolyzer Technologies and Integration with Renewables

• Detailed understanding of Alkaline, Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM), and Solid Oxide Electrolyzers (SOEC).
• Performance characteristics and operational requirements of different electrolyzers.
• Direct coupling of electrolyzers with renewable energy sources (solar PV, wind).
• Grid-connected electrolyzers and demand-side management for optimal operation.
• System integration challenges and solutions.

Module 4: Hydrogen Storage Technologies

• Physical storage: compressed gas hydrogen, liquid hydrogen (LH2).
• Material-based storage: metal hydrides, chemical hydrogen storage.
• Underground storage: salt caverns, depleted gas fields.
• Comparison of storage methods: capacity, cost, safety, discharge rates.
• Long-duration and seasonal energy storage with hydrogen.

Module 5: Hydrogen Transportation and Infrastructure

• Transportation methods: pipelines, trucks, ships (liquid hydrogen, ammonia).
• Existing natural gas pipeline repurposing for hydrogen blending.
• Challenges and technical considerations for hydrogen pipelines.
• Distribution networks for hydrogen.
• Development of hydrogen refueling stations and hubs.

Module 6: Hydrogen for Electricity Generation: Fuel Cells

• Principles of fuel cell operation: PEMFC, SOFC, PAFC.
• Types of fuel cells and their applications in power generation.
• Efficiency, durability, and operational characteristics of fuel cells.
• Fuel cell power plants: design and integration into the grid.
• Combined Heat and Power (CHP) applications with fuel cells.

Module 7: Hydrogen for Electricity Generation: Gas Turbines and Engines

• Hydrogen combustion in gas turbines: modifications required.
• Blending hydrogen with natural gas in existing gas turbines.
• 100% hydrogen-fueled gas turbines: current status and future developments.
• Internal combustion engines fueled by hydrogen.
• Emissions characteristics of hydrogen combustion.

Module 8: Power-to-X Concepts

• Power-to-Gas (P2G): producing hydrogen and then methane.
• Power-to-Liquid (P2L): producing synthetic fuels (e-fuels) from hydrogen.
• Power-to-Chemicals (P2C): producing ammonia, methanol from hydrogen.
• Role of Power-to-X in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors.
• Economic viability and energy efficiency of P2X pathways.

Module 9: Hydrogen in Grid Flexibility and Resilience

• Hydrogen as a source of dispatchable power for balancing variable renewables.
• Long-duration energy storage capabilities to address seasonal variations.
• Black start capabilities of hydrogen-fueled power plants.
• Hydrogen's role in grid ancillary services (frequency regulation, reactive power).
• Enhancing energy security and resilience with hydrogen.

Module 10: Hydrogen Blending in Natural Gas Networks

• Technical feasibility and challenges of blending hydrogen into natural gas pipelines.
• Impact on pipeline materials, end-use appliances, and gas quality.
• Blending limits and safety considerations.
• Regulatory frameworks and pilot projects for hydrogen blending.
• Strategic role of blending in initiating a hydrogen market.

Module 11: Safety, Standards, and Regulations

• Properties of hydrogen relevant to safety (flammability, leakage).
• Safety hazards: fire, explosion, asphyxiation.
• International safety standards and codes for hydrogen production, storage, and use.
• Risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
• Permitting and regulatory compliance for hydrogen projects.

Module 12: Environmental Impact and Life Cycle Assessment

• Lifecycle emissions of different hydrogen production pathways (well-to-gate).
• Comparison of green, blue, and gray hydrogen environmental footprint.
• Water consumption for green hydrogen production.
• Resource requirements and sustainability considerations.
• Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies for hydrogen projects.

Module 13: Economic and Financial Aspects of Hydrogen Projects

• Cost components of hydrogen production, storage, and utilization.
• Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) calculation.
• Business models for hydrogen projects in the power sector.
• Policy support, incentives, and carbon pricing mechanisms.
• Investment trends and financing challenges for hydrogen infrastructure.

Module 14: Modeling and Simulation of Hydrogen in Power Systems

• Tools for energy system modeling incorporating hydrogen (e.g., PLEXOS, LEAP, HOMER).
• Techno-economic optimization of hydrogen production and consumption.
• Simulating the impact of hydrogen integration on grid operations.
• Scenario analysis for future hydrogen deployment pathways.
• Data requirements and assumptions for hydrogen modeling.

Module 15: Policy, Market, and Future Outlook for Hydrogen

• National and international hydrogen strategies and roadmaps.
• Market development and trading mechanisms for hydrogen.
• Role of hydrogen hubs and valleys.
• Emerging technologies and research priorities (e.g., advanced electrolysis, solid-state storage).
• The long-term vision for hydrogen's role in a deeply decarbonized energy system.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.