Green hydrogen production can lead to cuts in CO2 emissions, according to Kiane de Kleijne of Radboud University and Eindhoven University of Technology. However, the entire life cycle of green hydrogen production and transport needs to be considered to determine the extent of these reductions. The use of clean electricity and local production can significantly help in reducing emissions. Dutch companies are investing in green hydrogen projects in countries where green power is readily available, such as Namibia and Brazil. The European Union aims to produce 10 million tonnes of green hydrogen and import another 10 million tonnes by 2030, highlighting the potential of this technology in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Green hydrogen production involves splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen using an electrolyser powered by green electricity. This hydrogen can then be used as a raw material or fuel. While natural gas-derived hydrogen is commonly used in industries like chemicals, green hydrogen offers the advantage of releasing no CO2 during production, provided that it is produced using green energy sources. However, the emissions from manufacturing components like wind turbines, solar panels, and batteries can add up substantially, impacting the overall CO2 gains. Despite this, the use of wind power generally results in higher CO2 gains compared to solar power, with expectations for further enhancements as renewable energy sources continue to be utilized in manufacturing processes.
Transporting green hydrogen from regions with abundant sun or wind, such as Brazil or Africa, to Europe poses technological challenges and can lead to increased emissions. The emissions from transporting green hydrogen over long distances can offset the CO2 gains from production in favorable locations. The choice of transport mode depends on the distance, with pipelines being optimal for short distances and shipping liquid hydrogen being preferred for longer distances. De Kleijne stresses that green hydrogen technologies should not be viewed as completely emission-free, as current calculation methods often neglect emissions from the manufacturing of necessary components like solar panels and electrolysers, as well as hydrogen leakage during transportation. By considering emissions throughout the entire life cycle, a better evaluation of technologies can be made to identify areas where improvements can be implemented.
The focus should be on making informed decisions about the production and utilization of green hydrogen, weighing the emissions associated with various stages of the process. Identifying areas for improvement in the supply chain can help optimize the environmental benefits of green hydrogen. Additionally, the discussion of where industries should be located, considering factors like emissions and resource availability, can inform decisions on whether production should remain in Europe or be relocated to regions with more favorable conditions for green hydrogen production. By taking a holistic approach to evaluating green hydrogen technologies, policymakers and industry stakeholders can make informed choices that promote sustainable emission reductions and support the transition to a greener energy future.