Advancements in the Implementation of Hydrogen Fuel

Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe, making it a valuable fuel source.

• Hydrogen has many potential uses and has been identified as one of multiple energy sources to assist in the decarbonization of the transportation industry, including light, medium, and heavy trucking, shipping and air transportation.
• Currently hydrogen is mainly used in industrial processes for refining petroleum, treating metals, fertilizer production, food processing and the production of other chemicals.
• Ongoing and continued research is being conducted, via pilot projects internationally, which test natural gas blended with hydrogen at multiple % rates by volume. The research is used to provide data showing what percentages of hydrogen may be safely blended with natural gas and allow the continued operation of existing appliances and equipment designed for use with Natural Gas and Propane to reduce emissions associated with their operation. Research is also providing data to determine if a maximum blending % of hydrogen by volume would be economical and sustainable until a switch to pure hydrogen as fuel sources for appliances and equipment would be a more viable and sustainable fuel source.

Yes, Hydrogen is classified in types using colors to represent each production method. Currently Grey hydrogen is the most common form that generates a smaller number of emissions than black or brown hydrogen which uses black (Bituminous) or brown (Lignite) coal in the hydrogen making process. Other hydrogen types include but are not limited to:

• Green Hydrogen: Hydrogen is produced using renewable energy resources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric to create electricity for the electrolysis process of splitting water atoms to produce hydrogen and vent oxygen to the atmosphere without having CO₂ emissions.
• Pink Hydrogen: Hydrogen is produced through the electrolysis process which is powered by nuclear energy. Pink hydrogen is usually considered “Green” as it does not produce CO₂ emissions but holds its own color classification.
• Blue Hydrogen: Hydrogen is produced using H₂O in a process of steam methane reforming of Natural Gas (methane) to produce hydrogen which incorporates CO₂ capture preventing the release of into the atmosphere. Once captured, the C0₂ by product is then stored permanently to prevent release into the atmosphere.
• Grey Hydrogen: Hydrogen is produced using H₂O for steam reforming of natural gas or coal gasification which does not incorporate carbon capture and releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Currently, 95% of the world’s hydrogen supply is produced using this method. Grey hydrogen is considered a high carbon fuel.

No, this is not a phase. The United States contributes over 10 percent of the global hydrogen supply and is actively involved in developing the global hydrogen economy. Researchers are exploring innovative energy technologies, with a focus on hydrogen, to reduce carbon reliance and address the dual challenge of emissions reduction and growing energy demands.