Integrated modelling and assessment of the operational impact of power-to-gas (P2G) on the electrical and gas transmission networks

Power-to-gas (P2G) is the process whereby electricity is used to produce hydrogen or synthetic natural gas. The electricity for the P2G process could, for instance, come from renewable energy which would otherwise be curtailed due to system or line constraints. The existing natural gas network could then potentially be used as a means to store, transport and reutilize this energy, thus preventing its waste. While there are several ongoing discussions on P2G in different countries, these are generally not backed by quantitative studies on its potential network implications and benefits. To bridge this gap, this paper introduces an original methodology to analyze different P2G processes and assess their operational impacts on both electricity and gas transmission networks. This is carried out by using a novel integrated model specifically developed for the simulation of operational interdependences between the two networks considering P2G. To demonstrate the several innovative features of the proposed model, technical, environmental, and economic operational aspects of P2G and its potential benefits are analyzed on the case of the Great Britain’s system, also providing insights into relief of gas and electrical transmission network constraints.