Hydrogen energy has tremendous potential in reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to sustainable energy sources. However, the practical development of hydrogen energy faces numerous challenges. Currently, hydrogen gas production still relies on fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal, which limits the sustainability of hydrogen energy. Additionally, significant investments are needed for hydrogen storage and transportation facilities. Furthermore, the cost of establishing hydrogen fuel infrastructure and related technologies is also a major challenge.
Recent research in Nature Communications led by Carnegie’s Lorenzo Rosa and visiting scholar Davide Tonelli from ULB and UCLouvain conducted a study aiming to analyze the sustainability of the future hydrogen economy and identify related challenges and opportunities.
The study found that electrolysis is a method for producing hydrogen gas that can be driven by either fossil fuels or renewable energy sources. Utilizing renewable energy to produce hydrogen gas and establishing efficient transportation and storage systems are key to achieving a sustainable hydrogen economy. Moreover, the study also mentioned that expanding the application of hydrogen fuel in transportation and energy production sectors would be an important step towards sustainable development.
However, due to land or water resource limitations, only about half of the hydrogen fuel demand by 2050 can be met through local production and utilization. In a net-zero world without carbon emissions, some countries may need to import pure hydrogen or hydrogen in derivative product forms, and Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, West Africa, South America, Canada, and Australia could become hydrogen-exporting countries. The researchers believe that evaluating the importance of hydrogen production resources in each country, and considering social, political, and economic factors will determine the extent of renewable technology deployment and hydrogen gas production in each country. The research team calls for joint efforts from policymakers and industry to break down barriers to sustainable hydrogen economy development and actively explore the potential of hydrogen energy. At the same time, the study provides specific development paths and clear goals for the sustainability of the future hydrogen economy.
Predicting the sustainability of the future hydrogen economy provides crucial insights into the sustainability of hydrogen economy and emphasizes the importance of policy support, international cooperation, and technological innovation. Through enhanced cooperation and investments, creating a supportive environment, and taking action to address relevant challenges, global collaborative efforts can achieve a more sustainable and clean future hydrogen economy.
