Hydrogen, a colorless, odorless, tasteless, flammable gaseous substance that is the simplest member of the family of chemical elements. A ubiquitous element in multiple sectors, is produced in large quantities for various uses, such as oil refining, fertilizer manufacturing, steel production, transportation, and heating. However, this production process is currently a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the emissions are equivalent to the entire global aviation sector, demonstrating the urgent need for action.
One of the main issues with current hydrogen manufacturing methods lies in their significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Decarbonizing these processes, while necessary for environmental sustainability, is expected to increase costs substantially. This could deter many industries from continuing their reliance on hydrogen.
A key sector that heavily demands hydrogen is steel manufacturing. However, the prediction is that this industry is likely to reduce its hydrogen usage due to the high levels of oxygen present in iron ore. This, combined with the high costs of hydrogen, could encourage steel manufacturers to seek other, more efficient and cost-effective alternatives.
Decarbonizing hydrogen production is one potential solution to this issue. However, this process requires substantial investment and comes with a significant cost. This financial burden poses a challenge to industries that heavily rely on hydrogen.
Despite hydrogen’s potential uses across a range of sectors, projections suggest that the overall demand for hydrogen is expected to decrease by a third by the year 2100. This is mainly due to the fact that hydrogen, while used extensively in oil refineries and fertilizer manufacturing, is not economically viable for energy production. Therefore, the trend leans towards a decrease in the use of hydrogen for these purposes.
To achieve global climate goals, a significant decrease in hydrogen use in oil refineries and fertilizer manufacturing is necessary by the mid-century. By 2100, it is predicted that only 5-10% of oil refineries will remain operational, which will result in a drastic reduction in hydrogen consumption.
The challenge lies in balancing the need for hydrogen in various sectors with the imperative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As we look towards a sustainable future, it is clear that technological innovation and economic feasibility will be key factors in the transition to cleaner, more efficient methods of hydrogen production and use.
