Impact of fuel cells on hydrogen energy pathways in a sustainable energy economy. Issue 17 (5th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Love, Jonathan G.; O'Mullane, Anthony P.; Boulaire, Fanny A.; Mackinnon, Ian D. R.
• Is Part Of: Sustainable energy & fuels. Volume 6:Issue 17(2022)
• Page Start: 4008
• Page End: 4023
• Publication Date: 2022-08-05
• Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Fuel cells -- Periodicals; Electric batteries -- Periodicals; Electrochemistry -- Periodicals; 660.297
• DOI: 10.1039/d2se00923d
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2398-4902

Abstract

Abstract : Key performance characteristics of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEMFC) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) are compared with emphasis on the sustainability of energy pathways showing that hydrogen for use in PEMFC is best supplied from renewable hydrogen. Abstract : The drive to decarbonise the electricity and transport industries when transitioning from a fossil fuel economy to a hydrogen economy requires careful consideration of techno-environmental implications. National and regional strategies for adopting hydrogen energy highlight an overarching objective to use hydrogen for electrification that requires a concomitant transition to fuel cell technologies. We therefore examine the impact of emergent fuel cell technologies on the sustainability of various hydrogen energy pathways. Using a technology neutral framework, we show that hydrogen derived from fossil fuels for use in fuel cells ( i.e ., blue hydrogen), is techno-environmentally unviable in a future economy. We propose that a narrative focused on a sustainable energy economy, rather than a hydrogen economy, shifts the debate to meet the requirements of national and regional strategies with key implications for the energy industry and policy maker.