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Where can we find alternatives to traditional fossil fuels?
This question applies to all sectors of activity.
The search for clean, sustainable energy sources has become a global priority.
In this context, green hydrogen appears to be a promising solution, capable of meeting our energy needs while reducing our environmental impact.
This article explores the advantages and prospects of green hydrogen as an energy source of the future.
The limits of current renewable energies
Renewable energies include photovoltaics, hydropower and wind power.
However, these resources have certain limitations.
Their dependence on meteorological conditions leads to major fluctuations in energy production.
It is therefore necessary to develop efficient storage systems to ensure a continuous power supply.
Hydrogen is one serious solution for storing this energy.
From “traditional” hydrogen to green hydrogen
Discovered in 1766, dihydrogen is made up of 2 hydrogen atoms.
This chemical element makes up the majority of atoms in our universe.
Associated with other molecules, it is present in water and natural gas, among other things.
How is hydrogen obtained?
The separation of two hydrogen atoms produces energy.
This action is achieved by one of the following methods:
- water electrolysis ;
- vaporeforming ;
- methane pyrolysis.
What is green hydrogen?
Green hydrogen refers to hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind or hydro power.
Unlike traditional hydrogen, which is generally produced from fossil fuels, green hydrogen is produced by electrolysis of water.
This process splits water into hydrogen and oxygen without CO2 emissions.
Green hydrogen is considered a clean, sustainable energy source.
Indeed, it offers many advantages in the fight against climate change and the transition to an economy based on renewable energies.
How can we produce and store this “clean” hydrogen?
Companies such as Engie offer a solution with an electrolyzer to be installed on site, combined with a storage unit.
The principle: an electric current is passed through the water to separate oxygen and hydrogen molecules.
What are the outlets for green hydrogen?
This energy can be stored in a fuel cell and used to power an electric motor.
The electric car is one application currently under development.
In this case, the motor emits only water vapor, with no particulate emissions or greenhouse gases.
Other projects are also under study, notably the use of hydrogen as a substitute for coal coke in the steel industry.
The benefits of green hydrogen
No CO2 emissions
Green hydrogen is considered a clean energy source, as its production and use do not generate greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy storage made easy
One of the great advantages of green hydrogen is its ability to store energy.
Unlike other renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, which depend on weather conditions, hydrogen can be stored and used when energy demand is high, making it a reliable solution for continuous power supply.
Versatility of use
Green hydrogen can be used in a variety of ways.
It can :
- be burned directly in fuel cells to produce electricity and heat without CO2 emissions;
- be used as a raw material in the chemical industry for the production of ammonia, methanol and other chemicals;
- serve as fuel for hydrogen-powered vehicles, offering a clean alternative to conventional cars.
Is it really energy for the future?
High expectations
Green hydrogen offers real potential.
It could play a major role in the global energy transition.
Many countries and companies are investing heavily in the research and development of more efficient and economically viable green hydrogen production technologies.
The European Union, for example, has set ambitious targets for the development of green hydrogen and aims to become the world leader in this industry by 2030.
The transport sector is likely to be one of the areas most impacted by green hydrogen.
Hydrogen-powered vehicles offer an attractive alternative to their internal combustion ancestors, while eliminating polluting emissions.
Current obstacles
However, there are still challenges ahead for green hydrogen.
Its production remains costly compared with other energy sources, and the infrastructure required for its large-scale use needs to be developed.
Ongoing research and investment in green hydrogen production and storage technologies are essential.
The aim is to overcome these obstacles and make this energy more accessible.
In conclusion
Green hydrogen offers enormous potential for meeting the world’s energy needs while reducing our carbon footprint.
Thanks to its versatility of use, energy storage capacity and zero CO2 emissions, it can play a key role in the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable economy.
Although challenges remain, growing investment in green hydrogen research and development is paving the way for a promising energy future.
