The search for sustainable energy solutions is more critical than ever as we strive to meet global climate targets. Researchers Alice Bennett and André Cabrera Serrenho have taken a significant step in this direction with their study on hydrogen production pathways in the UK.
Published in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, their research systematically compares the energy and emissions intensity of 173 hydrogen production pathways, offering valuable insights into the potential and challenges of different methods.
With the majority of energy consumption needed to be electrified, hydrogen is often considered a viable alternative for sectors where electrification is challenging. However, current hydrogen production is far from green, with about 98% of global production associated with significant greenhouse gas emissions.
Bennett and Serrenho’s research includes a variety of scenarios involving both onshore and offshore pathways, as well as the use of repurposed infrastructure. Their comprehensive approach aims to identify pathways that could potentially align with climate targets, making the findings highly relevant for policymakers and industry leaders.
The study reveals that electrolytic hydrogen powered by fixed offshore wind shows promise in meeting proposed emissions standards, both onshore and offshore. This contrasts sharply with fossil-fuel-based pathways, which lag behind in environmental performance.
Importance of Embodied and Fugitive Emissions
One of the critical insights from the research is the significance of embodied and fugitive emissions in hydrogen production. Even for electrolytic pathways, these emissions can account for 10-50% of the total emissions intensity. This highlights the need for a holistic approach when evaluating the environmental impact of hydrogen production methods.
Green vs. Blue Hydrogen
While green hydrogen pathways, especially those involving renewable sources like wind, hold promise for meeting climate targets, the study suggests that blue hydrogen pathways are less likely to align with these targets. This differentiation is essential for guiding future investments and policy decisions in the hydrogen sector.
