Description: The hydrogen economy refers to an economic system that uses hydrogen as a key energy carrier, promoting sustainable energy practices. This approach seeks to leverage hydrogen as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the transition to a more sustainable energy model. Hydrogen can be produced from various sources, including the electrolysis of water using renewable energy, making it a versatile and potentially abundant energy vector. Additionally, its ability to store and transport energy makes it attractive for various applications, from mobility to electricity generation. The hydrogen economy not only focuses on the production and use of hydrogen but also encompasses the infrastructure needed for its distribution and storage, as well as the research and development of technologies that facilitate its integration into the global energy system. In this context, hydrogen presents a promising solution to address the energy and environmental challenges of the 21st century, aligning with the sustainability and decarbonization goals that many nations are adopting in their energy policies.
History: The hydrogen economy began to take shape in the 1970s when the oil crisis drove the search for alternative energy sources. In the 1990s, the first research and development programs were established in several countries, such as Japan and Germany, to explore the potential of hydrogen as an energy carrier. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in hydrogen production, storage, and use, especially in the context of the energy transition towards renewable sources. In 2015, the adoption of the Paris Agreement marked an important milestone, as many countries began to integrate hydrogen into their decarbonization strategies. Today, the hydrogen economy is constantly evolving, with increasing investments and pilot projects worldwide.
Uses: Hydrogen has multiple applications in the modern economy. It is used as fuel in fuel cells for vehicles, providing a clean alternative to internal combustion engines. Additionally, hydrogen is employed in the chemical industry, particularly in the production of ammonia and methanol. Its use in electricity generation is also being explored, both in power plants and energy storage systems. In the residential sector, hydrogen can be used for heating and as an energy source for appliances. Furthermore, its potential in decarbonizing hard-to-electrify sectors, such as heavy industry and maritime transport, is being researched.
Examples: A notable example of the hydrogen economy is the ‘H2 Mobility’ project in Germany, which aims to establish a network of hydrogen refueling stations for fuel cell vehicles. Another case is the use of hydrogen in the steel industry, where companies like SSAB are developing steel production processes using hydrogen instead of coal, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. In Japan, the government has implemented policies to promote the use of hydrogen in public transport, including hydrogen buses in several cities.
