Challenges and Opportunities in Green, Nuclear, and Geologic Hydrogen
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In this edition, we bring you three significant updates from the world of hydrogen. Dive in and stay informed!
- If Power-to-X is to be a Real Climate Solution, Stronger State Intervention is Necessary
Despite widespread enthusiasm for Power-to-X (PtX) technologies, including green hydrogen, a study from the University of Copenhagen reveals significant barriers to investment. While PtX converts renewable electricity into hydrogen and other green products, such projects are deemed too risky for private investors due to untested technologies, regulatory uncertainties, and high production costs. As a result, only 4% of planned hydrogen production projects for 2030 have secured funding.
Key insights include:
- Regulatory and Infrastructure Challenges: Developers face uncertainty around environmental standards, green hydrogen classification, and the availability of transport pipelines. This instability hinders contract negotiations and project viability.
- Oil and Gas Dominance: While oil and gas companies are better positioned to finance PtX projects due to their resources and infrastructure, their focus on higher-return fossil fuels risks undermining genuine green transitions.
- State Intervention Required: The researchers argue for policy measures that compel fossil fuel phase-outs, such as removing subsidies, increasing CO2 taxes, and mandating green fuel blends. Subsidies alone are insufficient without these measures, as they may perpetuate fossil fuel reliance.
The study warns that without robust state action, PtX risks becoming a mere supplement to the fossil fuel economy, undermining its potential as a cornerstone of climate policy. Read more here.
- Nel ASA Receives 10 MW Electrolyser Order for Nuclear Hydrogen Project
Nel Hydrogen Electrolyser AS, a subsidiary of Nel ASA, has secured a contract worth approximately €5 million from Samsung C&T for 10 MW of alkaline electrolyser equipment. This marks their second collaboration, following an earlier project utilizing solar power.
The new demonstration plant will focus on "pink hydrogen," using surplus nuclear power to produce hydrogen, improving energy efficiency by harnessing otherwise wasted energy. This project is Korea's first nuclear-powered hydrogen initiative, showcasing the reliability of Nel's technology. The equipment will be manufactured at Nel's Herøya facility in Norway, the world's first fully automated electrolyser production line.
Samsung C&T aims to expand its role in the clean hydrogen sector, strengthening its partnership with Nel for future green energy ventures. Read more here.
- Geologic Hydrogen: A booming branch in Clean Hydrogen Energy
The global pursuit of natural hydrogen, or "gold hydrogen," is accelerating as scientists and energy companies explore its potential as a sustainable and abundant energy source. Unlike green hydrogen produced via electrolysis, natural hydrogen is found underground and emits no carbon dioxide when used. Recent discoveries suggest vast reserves in Earth's crust, potentially offering a low-cost, renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Countries like Australia, France, and the U.S. are intensifying efforts to commercialize subterranean hydrogen, aiming to unlock its role in the clean energy transition. Learn more about this revolutionary energy frontier here
Thank you & keep in touch for frequent updates!
Team, Hydrogen Newsletter.
