In the quest for a sustainable energy future, hydrogen is emerging as a critical player, and a recent review published in the journal “Aims in Energy” sheds light on its potential and challenges. The study, led by Rim Boukhin, a researcher at the Laboratory for the Study of Thermal & Energy Systems at the National Engineering School of Monastir in Tunisia, explores the ‘power-to-hydrogen’ pathway, offering insights into hydrogen generation, storage, applications, and the policy landscape that could shape its commercial viability.
Hydrogen, despite being the most abundant element in the universe, presents significant challenges for terrestrial production. “Scalable production remains a hurdle,” Boukhin notes, pointing to electrolysis efficiencies currently ranging between 60% and 80%. The cost of producing green hydrogen, which is derived from renewable energy sources, stands at approximately $3–8 per kilogram, a figure that could significantly influence its commercial adoption.
The applications of hydrogen are vast and varied. In the steelmaking industry, for instance, hydrogen could play a pivotal role in reducing carbon dioxide emissions by up to 7%. Fuel cells, another key application, can achieve energy efficiencies of up to 60%, offering a promising avenue for clean energy generation.
However, storage solutions present their own set of challenges. Compressed hydrogen tanks, which operate at pressures of up to 700 bars, and metal hydrides, which offer alternative storage methods, both face issues related to density and safety. “Overcoming these hurdles is crucial for the widespread adoption of hydrogen as an energy carrier,” Boukhin emphasizes.
Infrastructure development is another critical aspect. The study estimates that a staggering $15 trillion in investment will be required by 2050 to build the necessary pipelines and refueling stations. This substantial investment underscores the scale of the challenge and the opportunity that lies ahead.
Policy levers, such as carbon pricing and research and development subsidies, are identified as critical factors that could accelerate the deployment of hydrogen technologies. Boukhin highlights that a carbon price of less than $100 per ton of CO2, along with targeted R&D subsidies, could significantly influence the direction of hydrogen in the future.
The study’s findings have significant implications for the energy sector. As the world shifts towards low-carbon sustainable energy systems, hydrogen’s role as a major energy carrier becomes increasingly important. The research underscores the need for continued innovation and investment in hydrogen technologies to fully realize their potential.
Boukhin’s review, published in the journal “Aims in Energy,” serves as a comprehensive guide for stakeholders in the energy sector, offering a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the hydrogen landscape. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the transition to sustainable energy, hydrogen stands poised to play a pivotal role. The insights provided by this study could shape future developments in the field, guiding policy decisions and investment strategies to harness the full potential of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy carrier.