The global energy transition demands innovative solutions that simultaneously address energy security, operational flexibility, and carbon neutrality. Hydrogen has emerged as a key energy carrier, yet its widespread adoption is hindered by logistical challenges in production, storage, and on-demand utilization. This paper presents a novel, modular hybrid energy system architecture that integrates a microwave plasma reformer, a liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage subsystem with zero boil-off management, and a PEM fuel cell module, all governed by an intelligent Energy Management Unit. The system uniquely enables on-board hydrogen production from waste exhaust gases or hydrocarbons, eliminating dependence on external hydrogen refueling infrastructure. A comprehensive conceptual design is provided, including thermodynamic and electrochemical modeling, plasma physics formulations, and detailed subsystem engineering. The microwave plasma reformer achieves an energy efficiency of up to 68%, surpassing conventional reforming methods by approximately 16%. A techno-economic analysis is conducted using SWOT, TRL (Technology Readiness Level), Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), sensitivity analysis, and risk matrix frameworks. The results indicate a 5-year TCO reduction of 5–15% compared to conventional diesel-only systems, with total domestic production localization potential reaching 90%. Key challenges, including platinum group metal (PGM) dependency and boil-off management, are explicitly addressed with mitigation strategies. The system is designed for dual-use deployment: stationary hydrogen refueling stations (Model A) and on-board mobile systems for heavy-duty trucks and maritime vessels (Model B). A strategic roadmap from 2025 to 2050 is proposed, aligning with NATO’s carbon-neutral military infrastructure targets and Türkiye’s national energy independence goals. This study establishes a foundation for subsequent prototyping and experimental validation, positioning microwave plasma-based hybrid systems as a competitive, sustainable, and geopolitically strategic energy solution.
Eren ATAK (2026) studied this question.