Pathways to Sustainable Hydrogen

The hydrogen (H₂) industry is at an inflection point. As the world focuses on sustainability goals including the achievement of net-zero emissions by the year 2050, H₂ has emerged as an extremely attractive energy source.

NH₃ binds H₂ molecules and can be liquified by refrigeration at –33°C atmospheric pressure for transportability. NH₃ is transported in ships to meet fertilizer manufacturing needs. The energy intensity of liquid NH₃ is approximately 45% higher than liquid H₂ on a volumetric basis; therefore, the energy that liquid NH₃ will carry for transportation will require less space.

Chemically combining green H₂ with other constituents to create liquid eFuels, such as eAmmonia (NH₃) and eMethanol, are essential to solving the transport puzzle and extending the reach of renewable energy sources.

Green H₂ production is predicted to soar, heralding enormous potential for multiple industries on the path to net zero. The European Commission estimates between €180 B and €470 B is required for green H₂ to make up 13%–14% of the European Union’s energy mix in 2050.

The advantages of green H₂ have increased demand for H₂ fuel cells to help decarbonize multiple sectors, including transportation and cloud computing. Many H₂-powered vehicles are in development and use, from cars, semi-trucks and buses to boats, trains and airplanes, as well as material-handling and industrial vehicles like forklifts and tractors.

In the past, H₂ has not been cost effective as a fuel for industry or as an energy storage medium. However, this is changing rapidly, as several electrolysis technologies mature and compete to generate green H₂ using power from renewable energy sources.

In October 2023, the Biden-Harris Administration and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $7 B in investments to launch seven nationwide Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs) throughout the country. This is part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, an attempt to reinvigorate the U.S. economy by bringing manufacturing back to America and prioritizing the commercial deployment of low-cost, clean hydrogen (H₂).

The November H₂Tech: Tech Spotlight covers new H₂ pressure sensor technology, H₂-compatible fittings, non-iridium catalysts' durability tests, and autothermal reforming technology to deliver large-capacity H₂ solutions.

India’s renewable energy ministry announced plans to commit approximately $4 B to commercialize a green H₂ ecosystem in the country. The ministry’s roadmap focused on the developing infrastructure, materials and technologies to help boost green H₂ production and distribution in India.