Toward a net zero Power-X-Power application in Ireland: technoeconomic assessment of green hydrogen storage using salt cavern potential in Larne

In driving Ireland towards a net-zero carbon economy, the imperative lies in developing innovative hydrogen storage solutions. Our study focuses on the technoeconomic assessment of large-scale hydrogen storage within salt caverns, emphasising the potential in Larne, Belfast. We explore the integration of hydrogen storage into a Power-X-Power system for efficient green hydrogen utilisation. Beginning with identifying Larne's significant salt cavern potential, our comprehensive technoeconomic model evaluates the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of salt caverns for large-scale hydrogen storage. Our research yields a levelised cost of hydrogen storage within salt caverns, ranging from 1 to 2.5 euros per kilogram. This underscores the economic viability of large-scale hydrogen storage in salt caverns, essential for Ireland's green energy landscape. Noteworthy findings from our industrial partner include a cavern fill duration of approximately 200 hours. The technology for hydrogen storage involves compressed hydrogen gas at 264 barg and 15-56 °C. These real-world insights enhance the practical understanding of our proposed large-scale hydrogen storage system.