Technology

Hydrogen plays an increasing role as the world transitions to a low carbon energy system to decarbonize.

It’s the small molecule in H2O that could play a big role in lowering emissions. Hydrogen is being hailed as crucial in the push to decarbonize the planet.

It’s simply science.

When hydrogen (H) reacts with oxygen (O), lots of energy is released – and the only other product is water (H2O).  The advent of green hydrogen allows the emergence of hydrogen to be used as an emission-free energy source.

This combination of high energy and zero emissions opens the door to decarbonizing energy-intensive industries that are hard or expensive to electrify:  For example, heavy transport – trucks – which need fuels that pack a big punch while fitting into a small space.

Green hydrogen is a future renewable energy source, integral to Australia’s nascent green hydrogen economy. The Australian government has recognised the importance of green hydrogen to the Australian economy through the development of the National Hydrogen Strategy.

GREEN hydrogen is produced by the electrolysis of water, powered by renewable energy (see image below). The market is currently in its infancy but the falling cost of renewable energy coupled with the economics for green hydrogen as a cost-competitive alternative to fossil fuels, has enabled the opportunity for the green hydrogen economy to emerge.

Hydrogen can be produced from various sources and it is commonly referred to by different colours. Green Hydrogen is produced exclusively from renewable electricity and produces zero carbon emissions.

The image below is an overview of the planned network mentioned above with explanatory notes on the conversion technology from water to usable fuel applications. In particular the showing Stage I where hydrogen is liquefied and sent to fuel stations, operated by Hydrogen West.