Analyzing the potential of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles as distributed energy storage or generators to decarbonize transportation and power sectors

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Decarbonizing the transportation sector and scaling up energy storage are critical to the transition to a net-zero economy. This project aims to evaluate the potential of connecting fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) to the electrical grid (FCEVs-to-grid) as distributed energy storage and/or electricity generators to supply electricity to the grid when needed. We hypothesize that this FCEVs-to-grid pathway may maximize the benefits of the hydrogen (H2) infrastructure expansion in Canada to decarbonize both the transportation and power sectors, while providing potential economic incentives to FCEV owners. We will study two cases: the heavy-duty trucks on Highway 401 and the Calgary - Banff Rail Link train, both of which are potential early adopters of FCEVs. We will first identify the technical and economic constraints for FCEVs-to-grid (e.g., peak demand hours, grid-connection locations, FCEV cost and maintenance expense, hydrogen costs). Then optimal operation schedules to maximize FCEV idling time will be devised. The potential greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction will be evaluated, which depends on the FCEVs-to-grid schedules and the carbon intensities of hydrogen and the power generation. A techno-economic model will also be developed to evaluate the economic benefits and risks of the proposed FCEVs-to-grid pathway. Close interactions with our partner, the Transition Accelerator, will provide valuable information such as the real-life FCEV performances and grid integration information for the analyses, as well as interdisciplinary trainings to the highly qualified personnel (HQP). The results will provide new understandings on the role of FCEVs-to-grid for GHG reduction and the associated economic benefits/risks. HQP on the team will be prepared as future workforce in the blooming cleantech sector in Canada.