Hydrogen's role in reducing greenhouse gases

Hydrogen's role in reducing greenhouse gases

The hydrogen energy economy: its long term role in greenhouse gas reduction

Research Theme 2 - Decarbonising Modern Societies
Project ID - IT1.26

Principal contact: Dr Geoff Dutton

The following information is available on this project:

Technical Summary

Electrical power generation and transport constitute two of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. While increasing use of natural gas, and a minor contribution from renewable energy, have resulted in a reduction of emissions due to energy supply, the transport sector is projected to increase year on year until it becomes the biggest emitter soon after 2020 . Since the energy crises of the 1970s, many commentators have suggested that a hydrogen economy based on renewable energy may be the ultimate energy solution. However, the energy path from solar, wind, and other renewable generators, through hydrogen production via electrolysis and widespread storage and distribution, to end-use in cars, aeroplanes, and domestic and business premises is complex and currently very expensive. In order to realise the hydrogen economy, major changes would be required in the energy supply infrastructure, implying the need for a well planned programme of investment. In addition, technological advances are needed to achieve high process efficiencies and compact hydrogen storage vessels. It is therefore timely to consider the stepping stones required to achieve a fully integrated hydrogen economy and the likely economic costs compared to the expected environmental benefits. The final outcome of the project will be a comprehensive review of how the hydrogen energy economy might be implemented and how much it can practically be expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The review will include an assessment of major technological changes required and projections of the costs associated with each stage of implementation.