  Deep energy decarbonization cannot be achieved without high penetration of
renewables. At higher renewable energy penetrations, the variability and
intermittent nature of solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity can cause ramping
issues with existing fossil fuel generation, requiring longer term energy
storage to increase the reliability of grid operation. A proton exchange
membrane electrolyzer can produce H2and serves as a utility controllable load.
The produced H2 can then be stored and converted back into electricity, or
mixed with natural gas, or used as transportation fuel, or chemical feedstock.
This paper considers the perspective of the distribution system operator that
operates the distributed energy resources on a standard IEEE 33-node
distribution network considering the technical and physical constraints with
the goal of minimizing total investment and operation cost. Different case
studies, at very high PV penetrations are considered to show the challenges and
path to net-zero emission energy production using H2 energy. Sensitivity of
utility PV costs and electrolyzer capital costs on producing H2 at $1/kg are
presented showing that the distribution network could produce 100% renewable
electricity and H2 could be produced with the same price by 2050 with
conservative cost estimates and by 2030 with accelerated cost declines.
