The global energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation in its pursuit of sustainability, marked by the adoption of renewable energy sources and the decarbonization of industrial processes. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, among which hydrogen emerges as a promising contender.
Hydrogen, renowned for its versatility, has garnered widespread interest from various stakeholders including governments, energy suppliers, industries, and automobile manufacturers. Its potential to address energy challenges is substantial:
- Hydrogen’s storage capabilities enable the integration of larger volumes of renewable energy into the grid, mitigating issues related to intermittency.
- In sectors resistant to decarbonization, such as long-haul transport and heavy industry, hydrogen offers a viable pathway for reducing CO2 emissions.
- Utilizing hydrogen can contribute to improving air quality and public health.
- With diverse production sources and flexible applications, hydrogen enhances energy security.
China stands as a global leader in hydrogen production, maintaining this position for over a decade. Producing 30 million tons annually, China accounts for 30% of the world’s hydrogen production, with a significant portion derived from coal gasification.
However, China’s reliance on coal raises environmental concerns, with hydrogen production estimated to emit approximately 360 million tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to 5% of the country’s coal consumption in 2020. Despite this, the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects a decline in emissions in the coming years, attributing it to advancements in carbon capture technology and the utilization of low-carbon electricity in production processes.