In the quest to decarbonize industries like aviation, steel, and shipping, hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution. Yet, the journey from production to end-use is fraught with energy losses, making the hydrogen economy less efficient than it could be. A recent study published in the journal “Energy Reviews” explores how latent thermal energy storage systems could help close this gap, offering a more efficient and cost-effective path forward.
Michael Opolot, a researcher at the Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy at Central Queensland University, is leading the charge in this innovative approach. “The key challenge is that producing, packaging, delivering, and using hydrogen all consume energy, often more than the hydrogen itself can provide,” Opolot explains. “By integrating latent thermal energy storage systems, we can capture and reuse waste heat, significantly improving the overall efficiency of the hydrogen economy.”
Latent thermal energy storage systems utilize phase change materials to store and release energy. These materials absorb heat as they melt and release it as they solidify, providing a passive and efficient way to manage thermal energy. In the context of the hydrogen economy, these systems can be integrated at various stages, from production to distribution, to capture and reuse waste heat.
“Imagine being able to cool down hydrogen gas passively or generate electricity from waste heat,” Opolot envisions. “This not only reduces the energy required for compression and liquefaction but also cuts down on operational costs. It’s a win-win situation for both the environment and the industry.”
The study provides a comprehensive cost and sizing approach for integrating latent thermal energy storage systems into the hydrogen economy. By doing so, it paves the way for more sustainable and economically viable hydrogen production, crucial for achieving NetZero by 2050.
As the energy sector grapples with the challenges of decarbonization, this research offers a promising avenue for improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of hydrogen as a clean energy source. By harnessing the power of latent thermal energy storage, the hydrogen economy could become a more viable and sustainable solution for hard-to-abate sectors.
In the words of Opolot, “This is not just about improving efficiency; it’s about creating a sustainable future. And with the right innovations, we can make the hydrogen economy a cornerstone of that future.”