Green Ammonia Production Using Hybrid Solar–Wind Energy in Pakistan: A Feasibility Study

Green ammonia (NH3), produced using renewable hydrogen (H2) and atmospheric nitrogen (N2), offers a carbon-free alternative to conventional NH3, aligning with global decarbonization goals. This study presents a techno-economic assessment of a proposed 50,000 tonnes per year (t/y) green NH3 plant in Pakistan, powered by a hybrid 150 Megawatt (MW) wind and 50 MW solar PV system. The integrated facility utilizes alkaline water electrolysis for H2 production, air separation for N2, and the Haber–Bosch process for NH3 synthesis. Designed for 8000 operating hours per year, the plant integrates with the national grid for firming, allowing excess power sales and drawing electricity when needed. The total capital investment is estimated at US$278 million, with annual operating costs of approximately US$5.7 million. The levelized cost of NH3 (LCOA) is calculated at US$572.9/t, with electricity being the dominant cost component. Under a 70/30 debt-equity financing model, the project achieves a 13% project internal rate of return (IRR) and a 3.8-year payback period, assuming revenue from oxygen co-product sales and carbon credits. The plant is projected to offset 320,000 t of carbon dioxide (tCO2) emissions annually and yield enough NH3 to produce 85,000 t of urea fertilizer, 1.7% of Pakistan’s annual demand. This analysis demonstrates the technical and economic feasibility of mid-scale green NH3 production in renewable-rich developing countries and outlines pathways for climate-aligned industrial transformation with global replication potential. The project can also enhance national energy security and create green jobs, adding to its policy relevance.