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Techno-Economic Feasibility of Fuel Cell Vehicle-to-Grid Fast Frequency Control in Non-Interconnected Islands
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Hydrogen-Rich Syngas Production Based on Co-Gasification and Water–Gas Shift Reactor Without Steam Injection
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Design of Green Hydrogen and Power in Photovoltaic Systems: Electrolyzer Sizing and Storage
Journal Description
Hydrogen
Hydrogen
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of hydrogen published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), Scopus, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Engineering (miscellaneous))
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
A Techno-Economic Assessment of Steam Methane Reforming and Alkaline Water Electrolysis for Hydrogen Production
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020023 - 30 Mar 2025
Abstract
This study explores hydrogen’s potential as a sustainable energy source for Brunei, given the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and associated environmental concerns. Specifically, it evaluates two hydrogen production technologies; steam methane reforming (SMR) and alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), through a techno-economic framework
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This study explores hydrogen’s potential as a sustainable energy source for Brunei, given the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and associated environmental concerns. Specifically, it evaluates two hydrogen production technologies; steam methane reforming (SMR) and alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), through a techno-economic framework that assesses life cycle cost (LCC), efficiency, scalability, and environmental impact. SMR, the most widely used technique, is cost-effective but carbon-intensive, producing considerable carbon dioxide emissions unless combined with carbon capture to yield “blue hydrogen”. On the other hand, AWE, particularly when powered by renewable energy, offers a cleaner alternative despite challenges in efficiency and cost. The assessment revealed that AWE has a significantly higher LCC than SMR, making AWE the more economically viable hydrogen production method in the long term. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted to determine the main cost factors affecting the LCC, providing insights into the long term viability of each technology from an operational and financial standpoint. AWE’s economic viability is mostly driven by the high electricity and feedstock costs, while SMR relies heavily on feedstock costs. However, Environmental Impact Analysis (EIA) indicates that AWE produces significantly higher carbon dioxide emissions than SMR, which emits approximately 9100 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Nevertheless, findings suggest that AWE remains the more sustainable option due to its higher LCC costs and compatibility with renewable energy, especially in regions with access to low-cost renewable electricity.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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Open AccessArticle
Optimizing Hydrogen Storage and Fuel Cell Performance Using Carbon-Based Materials: Insights into Pressure and Surface Area Effects
by
Ali Altuntepe, Selahattin Çelik and Recep Zan
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020022 - 30 Mar 2025
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Efficient hydrogen storage is critical for advancing hydrogen-based technologies. This study investigates the effects of pressure and surface area on hydrogen storage in three carbon-based materials: graphite, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide. Hydrogen adsorption–desorption experiments under pressures ranging from 1 to 9
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Efficient hydrogen storage is critical for advancing hydrogen-based technologies. This study investigates the effects of pressure and surface area on hydrogen storage in three carbon-based materials: graphite, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide. Hydrogen adsorption–desorption experiments under pressures ranging from 1 to 9 bar revealed nonlinear storage capacity responses, with optimal performance at around 5 bar. The specific surface area plays a pivotal role, with reduced graphene oxide and exhibiting a surface area of 70.31 m2/g, outperforming graphene oxide (33.75 m2/g) and graphite (7.27 m2/g). Reduced graphene oxide achieved the highest hydrogen storage capacity, with 768 sccm and a 3 wt.% increase over the other materials. In assessing proton-exchange fuel cell performance, this study found that increased hydrogen storage correlates with enhanced power density, with reduced graphene oxide reaching a maximum of 0.082 W/cm2, compared to 0.071 W/cm2 for graphite and 0.017 W/cm2 for graphene oxide. However, desorption rates impose temporal constraints on fuel cell operation. These findings enhance our understanding of pressure–surface interactions and underscore the balance between hydrogen storage capacity, surface area, and practical performance in carbon-based materials, offering valuable insights for hydrogen storage and fuel cell applications.
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Open AccessReview
Computational Methods, Artificial Intelligence, Modeling, and Simulation Applications in Green Hydrogen Production Through Water Electrolysis: A Review
by
Ahmed Y. Shash, Noha M. Abdeltawab, Doaa M. Hassan, Mohamed Darweesh and Y. G. Hegazy
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020021 - 25 Mar 2025
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Green hydrogen production is emerging as a crucial component in global decarbonization efforts. This review focuses on the role of computational approaches and artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing green hydrogen technologies. Key approaches to improving electrolyzer efficiency and scalability include computational fluid dynamics
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Green hydrogen production is emerging as a crucial component in global decarbonization efforts. This review focuses on the role of computational approaches and artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing green hydrogen technologies. Key approaches to improving electrolyzer efficiency and scalability include computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermodynamic modeling, and machine learning (ML). As an instance, CFD has achieved over 95% accuracy in estimating flow distribution and polarization curves, but AI-driven optimization can lower operational expenses by up to 24%. Proton exchange membrane electrolyzers achieve efficiencies of 65–82% at 70–90 °C, but solid oxide electrolyzers reach up to 90% efficiency at temperatures ranging from 650 to 1000 °C. According to studies, combining renewable energy with hydrogen production reduces emissions and improves grid reliability, with curtailment rates of less than 1% for biomass-driven systems. This integration of computational approaches and renewable energy ensures a long-term transition to green hydrogen while also addressing energy security and environmental concerns.
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Open AccessArticle
PEMFC Thermal Management Control Strategy Based on Dual Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient
by
Zhi Zhang, Yunde Shen, Kai Ou, Zhuwei Liu and Dongji Xuan
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020020 - 25 Mar 2025
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The operational performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) is highly influenced by temperature, making effective thermal management essential. However, the multivariate coupling between pumps and radiators presents significant control challenges. To address this issue, a dual DDPG-PID control strategy is proposed,
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The operational performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) is highly influenced by temperature, making effective thermal management essential. However, the multivariate coupling between pumps and radiators presents significant control challenges. To address this issue, a dual DDPG-PID control strategy is proposed, integrating temperature and flow rate variations to enhance system stability and response. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly reduces temperature control errors and improves response time compared to conventional PID-based strategies. Specifically, the D-DDPG PID achieves a temperature error reduction of up to 75.4% and shortens the average tuning time by up to 25.6% compared to PSO-PID. Furthermore, the strategy optimizes cooling system performance, demonstrating its effectiveness in PEMFC thermal management.
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Open AccessPerspective
The Extractive Industry’s Decarbonization Potential Using Electrification and Hydrogen Technologies
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Antonis Peppas, Chrysa Politi and Maria Taxiarchou
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020019 - 21 Mar 2025
Abstract
The challenge of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions will require a significant scaling up of the production of several raw materials that are critical for decarbonizing the global economy. In contrast, metal extraction processes utilize carbon as a reducing agent, which is oxidized
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The challenge of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions will require a significant scaling up of the production of several raw materials that are critical for decarbonizing the global economy. In contrast, metal extraction processes utilize carbon as a reducing agent, which is oxidized to CO2, resulting in considerable emissions and having a negative impact on climate change. In order to abate their emissions, extractive industries will have to go through a profound transformation, including switching to alternative climate-neutral energy and feedstock sources. This paper presents the authors’ perspectives for consideration in relation to the H2 potential for direct reduction of oxide and sulfide ores. For each case scenario, the reduction of CO2 emissions is analyzed, and a breakthrough route for H2S decomposition is presented, which is a by-product of the direct reduction of sulfide ores with H2. Electrified indirect-fired metallurgical kiln advantages are also presented, a solution that can substitute fossil fuel-based heating technologies, which is one of the main backbones of industrial processes currently applied to the extractive industries.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Hydrogen Co-Firing with Natural Gas on Thermal Efficiency and CO2 Emissions in Gas Turbine Power Plant
by
Rizcky Rahadian Nugraha, S. Silviana and Widayat Widayat
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010018 - 19 Mar 2025
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The Indonesian government has established an energy transition policy for decarbonization, including the target of utilizing hydrogen for power generation through a co-firing scheme. Several studies indicate that hydrogen co-firing in gas-fired power plants can reduce CO2 emissions while improving efficiency. This
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The Indonesian government has established an energy transition policy for decarbonization, including the target of utilizing hydrogen for power generation through a co-firing scheme. Several studies indicate that hydrogen co-firing in gas-fired power plants can reduce CO2 emissions while improving efficiency. This study develops a simulation model for hydrogen co-firing in an M701F gas turbine at the Cilegon power plant using Aspen HYSYS. The impact of different hydrogen volume fractions (5–30%) on thermal efficiency and CO2 emissions is analyzed under varying operational loads (100%, 75%, and 50%). The simulation results show an increase in thermal efficiency with each 5% increment in the hydrogen fraction, averaging 0.32% at 100% load, 0.34% at 75% load, and 0.37% at 50% load. The hourly CO2 emission rate decreased by an average of 2.16% across all operational load variations for every 5% increase in the hydrogen fraction. Meanwhile, the average reduction in CO2 emission intensity at the 100%, 75%, and 50% operational loads was 0.017, 0.019, and 0.023 kg CO2/kWh, respectively.
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Open AccessArticle
Strategies to Increase Hydrogen Energy Share of a Dual-Fuel Hydrogen–Kerosene Engine for Sustainable General Aviation
by
Christian Reitmayr and Peter Hofmann
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010017 - 19 Mar 2025
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Reducing CO2 emissions in general aviation is a critical challenge, where battery electric and fuel cell technologies face limitations in energy density, cost, and robustness. As a result, hydrogen (H2) dual-fuel combustion is a promising alternative, but its practical implementation
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Reducing CO2 emissions in general aviation is a critical challenge, where battery electric and fuel cell technologies face limitations in energy density, cost, and robustness. As a result, hydrogen (H2) dual-fuel combustion is a promising alternative, but its practical implementation is constrained by abnormal combustion phenomena such as knocking and pre-ignition, which limit the achievable H2 energy share. In response to these challenges, this paper focuses on strategies to mitigate these irregular combustion phenomena while effectively increasing the H2 energy share. Experimental evaluations were conducted on an engine test bench using a one-cylinder dual-fuel H2 kerosene (Jet A-1) engine, utilizing two strategies, including water injection (WI) and rising the air–fuel ratio (AFR) by increasing the boost pressure. Additionally, crucial combustion characteristics and emissions are examined and discussed in detail, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the outcomes. The results indicate that these strategies notably increase the maximal possible hydrogen energy share, with potential benefits for emissions reduction and efficiency improvement. Finally, through the use of 0D/1D simulations, this paper offers critical thermodynamic and efficiency loss analyses of the strategies, enhancing the understanding of their overall impact.
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Open AccessArticle
Relationship Between Area and Capacity of Hydrogen Refueling Stations and Derivation of Design Recommendations
by
Armin Stein, Bastian Nolte, Umut Volkan Kizgin, Ole Grünewald, Güven Yurtseven and Thomas Vietor
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010016 - 14 Mar 2025
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Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in the decarbonization of the transport sector, necessitating the development of an adequate infrastructure in the form of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) to support hydrogen-powered vehicles. This study investigates the characteristics of hydrogen refueling stations to optimize their
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Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in the decarbonization of the transport sector, necessitating the development of an adequate infrastructure in the form of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) to support hydrogen-powered vehicles. This study investigates the characteristics of hydrogen refueling stations to optimize their spatial design and provide key performance indicators for spatial efficiency. An overview of HRS components and their operational requirements is provided, alongside the classification of stations into distinct categories. The primary focus is on analyzing the relationship between station area and capacity. Utilizing spatial data from hydrogen stations, areas are determined through Google Maps analysis. Linear and power regression models are applied to quantify the relationship, with both models proving effective for capturing these dynamics. Based on the findings, spatially efficient design recommendations are proposed, supplemented by examples and a conceptual blueprint for optimized HRS construction, which are then summarized in a morphological design catalog.
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Open AccessArticle
Sustainable Hydrogen Production from Plastic Waste: Optimizing Pyrolysis for a Circular Economy
by
Fiyinfoluwa Joan Medaiyese, Hamid Reza Nasriani, Khalid Khan and Leila Khajenoori
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010015 - 7 Mar 2025
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Hydrogen is a clean, non-polluting fuel and a key player in decarbonizing the energy sector. Interest in hydrogen production has grown due to climate change concerns and the need for sustainable alternatives. Despite advancements in waste-to-hydrogen technologies, the efficient conversion of mixed plastic
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Hydrogen is a clean, non-polluting fuel and a key player in decarbonizing the energy sector. Interest in hydrogen production has grown due to climate change concerns and the need for sustainable alternatives. Despite advancements in waste-to-hydrogen technologies, the efficient conversion of mixed plastic waste via an integrated thermochemical process remains insufficiently explored. This study introduces a novel multi-stage pyrolysis-reforming framework to maximize hydrogen yield from mixed plastic waste, including polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). Hydrogen yield optimization is achieved through the integration of two water–gas shift reactors and a pressure swing adsorption unit, enabling hydrogen production rates of up to 31.85 kmol/h (64.21 kg/h) from 300 kg/h of mixed plastic wastes, consisting of 100 kg/h each of HDPE, PP, and PS. Key process parameters were evaluated, revealing that increasing reforming temperature from 500 °C to 1000 °C boosts hydrogen yield by 83.53%, although gains beyond 700 °C are minimal. Higher reforming pressures reduce hydrogen and carbon monoxide yields, while a steam-to-plastic ratio of two enhances production efficiency. This work highlights a novel, scalable, and thermochemically efficient strategy for valorizing mixed plastic waste into hydrogen, contributing to circular economy goals and sustainable energy transition.
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Open AccessArticle
Electrochemical Hydrogen Pump/Compressor in Single- and Double-Stage Regime
by
Galin Borisov, Nevelin Borisov and Evelina Slavcheva
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010014 - 6 Mar 2025
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This study presents the integration and evaluation of commercially available gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs), specifically designed for high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs) within membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for electrochemical hydrogen pump/compressor applications (EHP/C). Using Nafion 117 as a solid polymer electrolyte,
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This study presents the integration and evaluation of commercially available gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs), specifically designed for high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs) within membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for electrochemical hydrogen pump/compressor applications (EHP/C). Using Nafion 117 as a solid polymer electrolyte, the MEAs were analyzed for cell efficiency, hydrogen evolution, and hydrogen oxidation reactions (HER and HOR) under differential pressure up to 16 bar and a temperature ranging from 20 °C to 60 °C. Key properties of the GDEs, such as electrode thickness and conductivity, were investigated. The catalytic layer was characterized via XRD and EDX analyses to assess its surface and bulk composition. Additionally, the effects of increasing MEA’s geometric size (from 1 cm2 to 5 cm2) and hydrogen crossover phenomena on the efficiency were examined in a single-cell setup. Electrochemical performance tests conducted in a single electrochemical hydrogen pump/compressor cell under hydrogen flow rates from 36.6 Ml·min⁻1·cm⁻2 to 51.3 mL·min⁻1 cm⁻2 at atmospheric pressure provided insights into the optimal operational parameters. For a double-stage application, the MEAs demonstrated enhanced current densities, achieving up to 0.6 A·cm⁻2 at room temperature with further increases to 1 A·cm⁻2 at elevated temperatures. These results corroborated the single-cell data, highlighting potential improvements in system efficiency and a reduction in adverse effects. The work underscores the potential of HT-PEMFC-based GDEs for the integration of MEAs applicable to advanced hydrogen compression technologies.
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis Between Green Hydrogen and Other Financial Assets: A Multi-Scale Correlation Approach
by
Eder J. A. L. Pereira, Letícia S. Anjos, Paulo Ferreira, Derick Quintino, Gerhard Ett and Thiago B. Murari
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010013 - 28 Feb 2025
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Improvements in quality of life, new technologies and population growth have significantly increased energy consumption in Brazil and around the world. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming and promote sustainable development, making green hydrogen a fundamental option for industrial decarbonization. Green
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Improvements in quality of life, new technologies and population growth have significantly increased energy consumption in Brazil and around the world. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming and promote sustainable development, making green hydrogen a fundamental option for industrial decarbonization. Green hydrogen, produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy, is gaining traction as a solution to reducing carbon emissions, with the global hydrogen market expected to grow substantially. This study applies the method to evaluate the cross-correlation between the green hydrogen market and various financial assets, including the URTH ETF, Bitcoin, oil futures, and commodities, revealing some strong positive correlations. It highlights the interconnection of the green hydrogen market with developed financial markets and digital currencies. The cross-correlation between the green hydrogen market and the index representing global financial markets presented a value close to 0.7 for small and large time scales, indicating a strong cross-correlation. The green hydrogen market and Bitcoin also presented a cross-correlation value of 0.4. This study provides valuable information for investors and policymakers, especially those concerned with achieving sustainability goals and environmental-social governance compliance and seeking green assets to protect and diversify various traditional investments.
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Open AccessArticle
Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Analysis of the Chlor-Alkali Process and By-Product Hydrogen in the United States
by
Pradeep Vyawahare, Pingping Sun, Ben Young, Adarsh Bafana, Taemin Kim, Troy R. Hawkins and Amgad Elgowainy
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010012 - 28 Feb 2025
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Hydrogen is considered a key energy carrier for which interest has grown over recent years. Chlor-alkali plants in the United States (U.S.) can potentially recover and supply the by-product hydrogen at scale. However, there is a scarcity of standard analysis for energy use
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Hydrogen is considered a key energy carrier for which interest has grown over recent years. Chlor-alkali plants in the United States (U.S.) can potentially recover and supply the by-product hydrogen at scale. However, there is a scarcity of standard analysis for energy use and emissions associated with products from chlor-alkali plants owing to lack of data and variations in chlor-alkali plant technology and operation. A rigorous life cycle analysis (LCA) is needed to quantify the emissions of by-product hydrogen and other products from chlor-alkali plants. In this study, we performed well-to-gate (WTG) emissions analysis of chlor-alkali products based on U.S. plant operating data gathered from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Chemical Data Reporting database, the U.S. Energy Information Administration survey EIA-923 form, and the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program. We performed process-level mass allocation to allocate energy use and emissions to the chlor-alkali products. This study shows that the by-product hydrogen has WTG CO2 emissions of 1.3–1.9 kgCO2/kg H2 for plants without combined heat and power (non-CHP) and 1.5–2.4 kgCO2/kg H2 for plants with combined heat and power (CHP). Furthermore, we identified that electricity upstream emissions are the key driver affecting the emissions of by-product hydrogen from non-CHP plants, while CHP emissions can be reduced by electricity export to grids with higher carbon intensity (CI). Finally, the study shows that chlor-alkali plants in the U.S. can potentially meet up to 320 kilotons of hydrogen demand (approximately 3% of total demand) annually.
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Open AccessArticle
Feasibility of Retrofitting a Conventional Vessel with Hydrogen Power Systems: A Case Study in Australia
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Muhammad Waris Yaar Khan and Hongjun Fan
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010011 - 28 Feb 2025
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As the pursuit of greener energy solutions continues, industries worldwide are turning away from fossil fuels and exploring the development of sustainable alternatives to meet their energy requirements. As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, Australia has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emission
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As the pursuit of greener energy solutions continues, industries worldwide are turning away from fossil fuels and exploring the development of sustainable alternatives to meet their energy requirements. As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, Australia has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emission by 43% by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Australia’s domestic maritime sector should align with these targets. This paper aims to contribute to ongoing efforts to achieve these goals by examining the technical and commercial considerations involved in retrofitting conventional vessels with hydrogen power. This includes, but is not limited to, an analysis of cost, risk, and performance, and compliance with classification society rules, international codes, and Australian regulations. This study was conducted using a small domestic commercial vessel as a reference to explore the feasibility of implementation of hydrogen-fuelled vessels (HFVs) across Australia. The findings indicate that Australia’s existing hydrogen infrastructure requires significant development for HFVs to meet the cost, risk, and performance benchmarks of conventional vessels. The case study identifies key determining factors for feasible hydrogen retrofitting and provides recommendations for the success criteria.
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Open AccessArticle
Application of Levelized and Environmental Cost Accounting Techniques to Demonstrate the Feasibility of Green Hydrogen-Powered Buses in Brazil
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Murilo L. Alcantara, José C. C. Santana, Cláudio A. O. Nascimento and Celma O. Ribeiro
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010010 - 21 Feb 2025
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Background: This study applied levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) and environmental cost accounting techniques to evaluate the feasibility of producing green hydrogen (GH2) via alkaline electrolysis for use in a bus fleet in Fortaleza, Brazil. Methods: A GH2 plant with
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Background: This study applied levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) and environmental cost accounting techniques to evaluate the feasibility of producing green hydrogen (GH2) via alkaline electrolysis for use in a bus fleet in Fortaleza, Brazil. Methods: A GH2 plant with a 3 MW wind tower was considered in this financial project. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the economic viability of the project, considering the influence of production volume, the number of electrolysis kits, financing time, and other kay economic indices. Revenue was derived from the sale of by-products, including green hospital oxygen (GHO2) and excess wind energy. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed to quantify material and emission flows throughout the H2 production chain. A zero-net hydrogen price scenario was tested to evaluate the feasibility of its use in urban transportation. Results: The production of GH2 in Brazil using alkaline electrolysis powered by wind energy proved to be economically viable for fueling a hydrogen-powered bus fleet. For production volumes ranging from 8.89 to 88.9 kg H2/h, the sensitivity analysis revealed high economic performance, achieving a net present value (NPV) between USD 19.4 million and USD 21.8 million, a payback period of 1–4 years, an internal rate of return (IRR) of 24–90%, and a return on investment (ROI) of 300–1400%. The LCOH decreased with increased production, ranging from 56 to 25 USD/MWh. Over the project timeline, GH2 production and use in the bus fleet reduced CO2 emissions by 53,000–287,000 t CO2 eq. The fuel cell bus fleet project demonstrated viability through fuel cost savings and revenue from carbon credit sales, highlighting the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of GH2 use in urban transportation in Brazil.
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Open AccessArticle
Membrane-Based Hydrogen Production: A Techno-Economic Evaluation of Cost and Feasibility
by
Dk Nur Hayati Amali Pg Haji Omar Ali, Hazwani Suhaimi and Pg Emeroylariffion Abas
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010009 - 8 Feb 2025
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As the global shift toward a low-carbon economy accelerates, hydrogen is emerging as a crucial energy source. Among conventional methods for hydrogen production, steam methane reforming (SMR), commonly paired with pressure swing adsorption (PSA) for hydrogen purification, stands out due to its established
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As the global shift toward a low-carbon economy accelerates, hydrogen is emerging as a crucial energy source. Among conventional methods for hydrogen production, steam methane reforming (SMR), commonly paired with pressure swing adsorption (PSA) for hydrogen purification, stands out due to its established infrastructure and technological maturity. This comprehensive techno-economic analysis focuses on membrane-based hydrogen production, evaluating four configurations, namely SMR, SMR with PSA, SMR with a palladium membrane, and SMR with a ceramic–carbonate membrane coupled with a carbon capture system (CCS). The life cycle cost (LCC) of each configuration was assessed by analyzing key factors, including production rate, hydrogen pricing, equipment costs, and maintenance expenses. Sensitivity analysis was also conducted to identify major cost drivers influencing the LCC, providing insights into the economic and operational feasibility of each configuration. The analysis reveals that SMR with PSA has the lowest LCC and is significantly more cost-efficient than configurations involving the palladium and ceramic–carbonate membranes. SMR with a ceramic–carbonate membrane coupled with CCS also demonstrates the most sensitive to energy variations due to its extensive infrastructure and energy requirement. Sensitivity analysis confirms that SMR with PSA consistently provides the greatest cost efficiency under varying conditions. These findings underscore the critical balance between cost efficiency and environmental considerations in adopting membrane-based hydrogen production technologies.
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Open AccessArticle
Carbon Emission Optimization of the Integrated Energy System in Industrial Parks with Hydrogen Production from Complementary Wind and Solar Systems
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Weiwei Wang, Yu Qi, Xiaolong Zhang, Pu Xie, Yingjun Guo and Hexu Sun
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010008 - 31 Jan 2025
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With the increasing utilization of renewable energy sources, hydrogen production from complementary wind and solar (HPCWS) systems has become a part of the construction of the integrated energy system (IES). However, renewable energy generation faces uncertainty; in addition, the IES lacks model representation.
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With the increasing utilization of renewable energy sources, hydrogen production from complementary wind and solar (HPCWS) systems has become a part of the construction of the integrated energy system (IES). However, renewable energy generation faces uncertainty; in addition, the IES lacks model representation. To solve this problem, this study proposes a carbon day-ahead optimal dispatch model for an integrated energy system with HPCWS and establishes carbon equations for conventional power generation and natural gas. The demand-side response of the IES is considered in conjunction with the objective functions of low-carbon operation and hydrogen storage gain maximization; furthermore, constraints are established to keep the dispatch results of the equipment within reasonable limits. Secondly, the scheduling model requires a faster and more accurate solution algorithm, so an improved particle swarm algorithm is proposed to solve the minimum of the objective function, and the superior convergence speed and accuracy of the algorithm are verified. The comparison of the IES before and after the introduction of HPCWS yields the changes in carbon emission values and hydrogen production before and after the optimization for the respective seasons and scenarios. In addition, the article also discusses the effect of season on the optimization results.
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Open AccessArticle
Integrated Plant Design for Green Hydrogen Production and Power Generation in Photovoltaic Systems: Balancing Electrolyzer Sizing and Storage
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Alessandro Franco, Carlo Carcasci, Andrea Ademollo, Mattia Calabrese and Caterina Giovannini
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010007 - 23 Jan 2025
Abstract
This study evaluates the performance and feasibility of hybrid photovoltaic–hydrogen systems integrated with 4.2 MW PV installations, focusing on the interplay between electrolyzer capacity, energy storage, and hydrogen production. Key findings reveal that downsizing electrolyzers, such as using a 1 MW unit instead
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This study evaluates the performance and feasibility of hybrid photovoltaic–hydrogen systems integrated with 4.2 MW PV installations, focusing on the interplay between electrolyzer capacity, energy storage, and hydrogen production. Key findings reveal that downsizing electrolyzers, such as using a 1 MW unit instead of a 2 MW model, increases operational efficiency by extending nominal power usage, though it reduces total hydrogen output by approximately 50%. Meanwhile, expanding energy storage systems show diminishing returns, with added capacity offering minimal gains in hydrogen production and raising economic concerns. The system’s performance is highly weather-dependent, with daily hydrogen production ranging from 26 kg on cloudy winter days to 375 kg during sunny summer conditions. Surplus energy export to the grid peaks at 3300 kWh during periods of high solar generation but is minimal otherwise. For economic and operational viability, the system design must prioritize directing a majority of PV energy to hydrogen production while minimizing grid export, requiring a minimum of 50% PV energy allocation to the hydrogen value chain. Cost analysis estimates a Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) as low as €6/kg with an optimized configuration of a 2 MW electrolyzer and 2 MWh battery. Although high production costs challenge economic sustainability, careful component optimization and supportive policies can enable competitive hydrogen pricing and a positive net present value (NPV) over the system’s lifetime.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Hydrogen Technologies vs. Battery Ones in the Green Energy Transition)
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Open AccessArticle
Multiparametric Study of Water–Gas Shift and Hydrogen Separation Performance in Membrane Reactors Fed with Biomass-Derived Syngas
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Nadia Cerone, Luca Contuzzi, Giuseppe Domenico Zito, Carmine Florio, Laura Fabbiano and Francesco Zimbardi
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010006 - 22 Jan 2025
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A multiparametric study was conducted on a hydrogen (H2) production rig designed to process 0.25 Nm3·h−1 of syngas. The rig consists of two Pd-Ag membrane permeator units and two Pd-Ag membrane reactor units for the water–gas shift (WGS)
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A multiparametric study was conducted on a hydrogen (H2) production rig designed to process 0.25 Nm3·h−1 of syngas. The rig consists of two Pd-Ag membrane permeator units and two Pd-Ag membrane reactor units for the water–gas shift (WGS) reaction, enabling a detailed and comprehensive analysis of its performance. The aim was to find the optimal conditions to maximize hydrogen production by WGS and its separation in a pure stream by varying the temperature, pressure, and steam-to-CO ratio (S/CO). Two syngas mixtures obtained from an updraft gasifier using different gasification agents (air–steam and oxy–steam) were used to investigate the effect of gas composition. The performance of the rig was investigated under nine combinations of temperature, pressure, and S/CO in the respective ranges of 300–350 °C, 2–8 bar, and 1.1–2 mol·mol−1, as planned with the help of design of experiment (DOE) software. The three parameters positively affected performance, both in terms of capacity to separate a pure stream of H2, reported as moles permeated per unit of surface area and time, and in producing new H2 from WGS, reported as moles of H2 produced per volume of catalyst unit and time. The highest yields were obtained using syngas from oxy–steam gasification, which had the highest H2 concentration and was free of N2.
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Open AccessArticle
Carbon-Supported Pt-SiO2 Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Low-Temperature Range: Rotating Disk Electrode Study
by
Ruslan M. Mensharapov, Dmitry D. Spasov, Matvey V. Sinyakov, Darya E. Grineva, Seraphim V. Nagorny, Ratibor G. Chumakov, Artem V. Bakirov and Nataliya A. Ivanova
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010005 - 21 Jan 2025
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The activities of Pt electrocatalysts modified with a prepared silica powder (with SiO2 contents of 3 and 7 wt%) in the oxygen reduction reaction in the temperature range from 0 °C to 50 °C were investigated by the rotating disk electrode technique
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The activities of Pt electrocatalysts modified with a prepared silica powder (with SiO2 contents of 3 and 7 wt%) in the oxygen reduction reaction in the temperature range from 0 °C to 50 °C were investigated by the rotating disk electrode technique to evaluate their efficiency in the process of the cold start of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). An increase in the mass activity of the Pt-SiO2/C electrocatalyst in comparison with Pt/C was observed, which can be attributed to a more dispersed distribution of platinum particles on the support surface and a decrease in their size. The activity values of the silica-modified electrocatalysts in the oxygen reduction reaction were approximately two-fold higher at 1 °C and four-fold higher at elevated temperatures of up to 50 °C in comparison with Pt/C, which makes their application in PEMFCs at low temperatures, including in the process of cold start, a promising avenue for further investigation.
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Open AccessArticle
Critical Geochemical and Microbial Reactions in Underground Hydrogen Storage: Quantifying Hydrogen Loss and Evaluating CO2 as Cushion Gas
by
Rana Al Homoud, Marcos Vitor Barbosa Machado, Hugh Daigle and Harun Ates
Hydrogen 2025, 6(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6010004 - 17 Jan 2025
Cited by 1
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Hydrogen is a pivotal energy carrier for achieving sustainability and stability, but safe and efficient geological underground hydrogen storage (UHS) is critical for its large-scale application. This study investigates the impacts of geochemical and biochemical reactions on UHS, addressing challenges that threaten storage
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Hydrogen is a pivotal energy carrier for achieving sustainability and stability, but safe and efficient geological underground hydrogen storage (UHS) is critical for its large-scale application. This study investigates the impacts of geochemical and biochemical reactions on UHS, addressing challenges that threaten storage efficiency and safety. Geochemical reactions in saline aquifers, particularly the generation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), were analyzed using advanced compositional and geochemical modeling calibrated with experimental kinetic data. The results indicate that geochemical reactions have a minimal effect on hydrogen consumption. However, by year 10 of storage operations, H2S levels could reach 12–13 ppm, necessitating desulfurization to maintain storage performance and safety. The study also examines the methanogenesis reaction, where microorganisms consume hydrogen and carbon dioxide to produce methane. Numerical simulations reveal that microbial activity under suitable conditions can reduce in situ hydrogen volume by up to 50%, presenting a critical hurdle to UHS feasibility. These findings highlight the necessity of conducting microbial analyses of reservoir brines during the screening phase to mitigate hydrogen losses. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive field-scale analysis of impurity-induced geochemical and microbial reactions and their implications for underground hydrogen storage. By integrating kinetic parameters derived from experimental data with advanced computational modeling, this study uncovers the mechanisms driving these reactions and highlights their impact on storage efficiency, and safety. By offering a detailed field-scale perspective, the findings provide a pivotal framework for advancing future hydrogen storage projects and ensuring their practical viability.
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