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The escalating demand for renewable energy solutions and the imperative for efficient energy storage mechanisms have catalyzed the evolution of Power-to-X (PtX) technologies. Germany has the most PtX projects, accounting for 44% of all projects that have been reported. PtX encompasses a spectrum of processes engineered to convert surplus renewable energy into versatile energy carriers or chemical commodities, such as hydrogen, methane, or synthetic fuels. The Paramount to this domain is to synergistically harness renewable energy sources and hydrogen carriers to curtail waste and bolster sustainability. Central to achieving this synergy is the effective control of PtX processes, ensuring optimal performance, cost efficiency, and seamless integration within existing energy frameworks. This paper delves into the control processes and environmental prerequisites within the PtX landscape, elucidating key challenges, and strategies within this dynamic realm. While providing an initial overview of fundamental PtX process chains, this paper accentuates the critical role of geographical considerations. Subsequently, it conducts a thorough analysis of equipment modeling challenges, addressing performance metrics, operational requisites, and capital investments, particularly focusing on methanol and hydrogen production and storage. Through holistic examination, this paper endeavors to delineate the evolving landscape of PtX control processes and conditions, advancing our understanding of this expanding field. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive overview of PtX control process, challenges, strategies, and advancements. • Overview of PtX process chains and geographical conditions. • Analysis of equipment modeling challenges for methanol and hydrogen. • Addressing crucial storage challenges in PtX system. • Exploration of diverse influences on PtX control processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to provide a holistic analysis of the role of hydrogen for achieving greenhouse gas neutrality in Germany. For that purpose, we apply an integrated energy system model which includes all demand sectors of the German energy system and optimizes the transformation pathway from today's energy system to a future cost-optimal energy system. We show that 412 TWh of hydrogen are needed in the year 2045, mostly in the industry and transport sector. Particularly, the use of about 267 TWh of hydrogen in industry is essential as there are no cost-effective alternatives for the required emission reduction in the chemical industry or in steel production. Furthermore, we illustrate that the German hydrogen supply in the year 2045 requires both an expansion of domestic electrolyzer capacity to 71 GW H2 and hydrogen imports from other European countries and Northern Africa of about 196 TWh. Moreover, flexible operation of electrolyzers is cost-optimal and crucial for balancing the intermittent nature of volatile renewable energy sources. Additionally, a conducted sensitivity analysis shows that full domestic hydrogen supply in Germany is possible but requires an electrolyzer capacity of 111 GW H2. • 412 TWh of hydrogen demand in a greenhouse gas neutral Germany in the year 2045. • Hydrogen usage is crucial for defossilization of chemical and steel industry. • 47% of hydrogen is imported from other European countries and Northern Africa. • 71 GW H2 of electrolyzer capacity in Germany with flexible operation. • 35 TWh of hydrogen storage in salt caverns for security of supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]