Newton, 24 February, 2023: With hydrogen-powered vehicles emitting only water vapor, the prospect of using hydrogen to heat homes is promising. Leiden researchers examined the global environmental impact of hydrogen production, revealing alarming findings. The current reliance on natural gas for hydrogen production, using methods like methane steam reforming, results in an average release of 14 kilograms of CO2 per kilogram of hydrogen.
Shijie Wei, a Ph.D. candidate, utilized a life cycle assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental impacts of nine hydrogen production technologies. His supervisor, Bernhard Steubing, warned that an expected four to eightfold increase in hydrogen production by 2050 could contribute up to 12% of the remaining carbon budget for limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
The use of fossil fuels in hydrogen production, particularly natural gas, poses risks, especially when coupled with capturing and storing CO2. Wei emphasized the inherent challenges and expense of capturing CO2 from flue gas. Despite capturing 64% of CO2 in their calculations, Wei argued that significant emissions, up to 1 gigaton of CO2 per year, would persist.
Wei proposed a cleaner alternative: water electrolysis using renewable electricity. This method, producing only hydrogen and oxygen, is significantly cleaner when powered by renewable energy. Arnold Tukker, a co-author, urged policymakers to accelerate the expansion of renewable energy and prioritize electrolysis over risky steam methane reforming with carbon capture and storage. The latter, once implemented, could result in a long-term commitment to high CO2 emissions.
In conclusion, the research advocates for a swift transition to hydrogen production through electrolysis with renewable energy, emphasizing its role in reducing CO2 emissions and securing a sustainable future.
