Unlocking the potential of hydrogen for a sustainable tomorrow 

As the climate crisis intensifies, the search for sustainable energy alternatives becomes more urgent. Among renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, nuclear, biomass, and geothermal, hydrogen is garnering increasing interest as an attractive option to replace the dwindling fossil fuels that currently support our lifestyles.  

Studies indicate that renewable energies could substantially power Europe by 2050, with hydrogen potentially making up 20% of this energy mix.  The demand for hydrogen is accelerating, fuelled by global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and advances in electrolysis technologies. Concurrently, the hydrogen production market, valued at $130 billion between 2020 and 2021, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 9.2% through 2030.  

In this blog, we’ll explore the production, applications, and environmental impacts of hydrogen, with a special focus on green hydrogen.  

The hydrogen value chain includes the entire lifecycle of hydrogen – from production and distribution to storage and application across various industries. Understanding the hydrogen value chain is essential in realising hydrogen’s potential for a sustainable energy future. 

Below is a breakdown of the critical stages in the hydrogen value chain: 

Production methods  

There are various methods for hydrogen production. The most common one is Steam Methane Reforming (SMR) wherein natural gas is heated with steam and a catalyst to produce hydrogen. Another method is Electrolysis, where electricity is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Lastly, Biomass Gasification which involves converting organic materials into hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and other byproducts by subjecting the material to high temperatures with a controlled amount of oxygen and steam.

Transportation and distribution  

Hydrogen can be transported using several methods depending on its form and the infrastructure available. Methods include using pipelines for direct conveyance, as compressed gas in high-pressure cylinders, or as a cryogenic liquid in specialised thermally insulated tankers. Pipelines are best for extensive, continuous distribution while compressed and liquefied forms are suited for different scales of transport needs. Additionally, hydrogen can be chemically bound to liquid organic carriers or in metal hydrides, thus enhancing safety and energy efficiency during transport over longer distances.

Storage

Hydrogen storage is achieved through several methods: compressing it in high-pressure cylinders, liquifying it in cryogenic tanks at extremely low temperatures of up to -253°C, or adsorbing it onto materials such as metal hydrides or carbon-based adsorbents. These methods cater to different needs related to space, efficiency, and safety. Compressed hydrogen is commonly used for mobility applications, while liquefied hydrogen offers higher energy density suitable for larger scale storage and transport.

Hydrogen uses  

Hydrogen plays a crucial role in a wide range of applications across different industries. In the energy sector, it can generate electricity through fuel cells or can be directly burned in turbines. In transportation, hydrogen powers vehicles such as cars, buses, and airplanes, providing a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. It is also essential industrially, being used as a key ingredient in various chemical processes and in high-temperature operations like steelmaking and refining. Additionally, hydrogen shows promise for domestic uses, including heating and powering household appliances, especially in energy systems aiming to reduce carbon emissions. 

Colours classify various types of hydrogen based on their production methods and environmental impact. However, the most common and well-known types are green, blue and grey.