As a feedstock or product, hydrogen can decarbonise the industry, power transport, generate electricity and heat homes, all without releasing harmful emissions.
In our commitment to supporting existing and future infrastructures, we investigate ways to safely store and transport hydrogen.
The cleanest way to extract hydrogen is through electrolysis, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen. Powered by renewable energy such as solar or wind, this process uses no fossil fuels and releases no harmful emissions. Hydrogen from this source is known as ‘green hydrogen’. Other low-carbon methods include hydrogen from biomass or waste such as plastics.
Currently, the majority of produced hydrogen comes from natural gas. Although more cost-effective than electrolysis, this process relies on fossil fuels and produces carbon dioxide. If this CO2 is captured and stored, the hydrogen is known as ‘blue hydrogen’. If the CO2 is released into the atmosphere, it’s called ‘grey hydrogen’.
This can be in gas or liquid form. Hydrogen is extremely flammable and odourless and must be stored in a highly controlled and safe environment.
We’re working to address these challenges as we investigate our role in new hydrogen-handling terminals. We’re building our expertise in liquified gases to expand into pressurised tanks, liquified hydrogen pipelines and hydrogen-blending facilities. We also have the capability to store biomass feedstock for hydrogen production.
Hydrogen is also key to the low-carbon production of ammonia, which is another future fuel.
Hydrogen, as an energy source, holds immense potential for decarbonisation. New and emerging uses of hydrogen include fuel cells and direct electrification to power short-distance aviation, maritime and road transport. Eventually, hydrogen could power the national electricity network and heat our homes.
World Economic Forum
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