Green Hydrogen and Electrolysers
Affordable renewable hydrogen opens up a world of manufacturing possibilities.
Affordable renewable hydrogen opens up a world of manufacturing possibilities.
There are many ways to acquire hydrogen, but green hydrogen is the only one that uses clean technology. An electrochemical device known as a hydrogen electrolyser uses renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen in a process called electrolysis. Hydrogen is produced in this process and can be used to store energy.
Green hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier and feedstock that has the potential to transform and decarbonise many industries. Uses include: industrial feedstock, some industrial heat processes, storage for exporting renewable energy, shipping and other forms of large scale transportation, and electricity generation for rare periods of extended low sun and wind.
Producing and utilising green hydrogen for energy requires a substantial input of renewable energy, at least three times more than directly using renewable energy as electricity. Additionally, electrolysis demands a considerable volume of clean water, approximately nine litres or more per kilogram of hydrogen generated.
Transfering hydrogen is expensive and requires purpose built technology, which is the reason we advocate for green hydrogen production in Clean Industry Hubs, where it can be used directly. Our Electrifying Industry report (2018) details the important role of green hydrogen for some industrial processes.
The Cleantech Showcase lists examples of projects that are capable of propelling us towards a prosperous, zero emissions Australia.
This list is not exhaustive and many more comparable projects may exist.
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