A recent study published in the journal Electricity examines the significant role of green hydrogen in decarbonizing hard-to-abate industrial sectors, such as steel, petrochemicals, glass, cement, and paper. Led by Alessandro Franco from the Department of Energy, Systems, Territory, and Constructions Engineering at the University of Pisa, the research highlights how hydrogen produced from renewable sources can not only facilitate industrial decarbonization but also support the growth of renewable energy installations, particularly solar and wind.
The paper emphasizes hydrogen’s unique dual role as both a fuel and a chemical agent, which can enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide emissions in industrial processes. This integration is especially critical as industries face increasing pressure to lower their environmental impact. Franco notes, “Hydrogen emerges as a relevant element, not only for mitigating environmental impact by curbing emissions but also because it plays a central role in the definition of innovative processes.”
One of the key findings of the research is the potential for hydrogen to replace carbon in the direct reduced iron (DRI) process in steelmaking, which is responsible for approximately 7% of global steel production. The study indicates that a next-generation DRI plant producing one million tons of steel annually would require around 3,200 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic capacity to effectively integrate hydrogen. This presents a substantial commercial opportunity for energy companies specializing in renewable energy generation, as they can provide the necessary infrastructure to support these industrial applications.
The paper also discusses the need for significant hydrogen facilities, ranging from several hundred to a few thousand MW, to support typical industrial plants. Franco highlights the importance of “virtual” power plants that can integrate with both the electrical grid and energy-intensive systems, showcasing hydrogen’s critical role in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Despite the challenges posed by current electrolysis efficiencies—around 60%—and the energy requirements for hydrogen storage, the potential applications in sectors like steelmaking are promising. Hydrogen’s ability to be blended with natural gas in existing furnaces, allowing for CO2 emission reductions, is already being explored, with mixtures of up to 20% hydrogen proving effective.
As industries seek to adopt cleaner technologies, the integration of renewable electricity and green hydrogen offers a pathway for substantial decarbonization. The study underscores that achieving a successful transition will require a strategic vision and systemic approach, particularly in the steel sector, which stands out as a promising candidate for significant advancements in decarbonization efforts.
This research not only contributes to the understanding of hydrogen’s role in industrial processes but also opens up commercial avenues for energy providers and stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. The findings from Franco and his team serve as a vital resource for companies looking to innovate and invest in sustainable energy solutions, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors.
