Blue hydrogen must be done properly

Abstract

Future energy scenarios include both green and blue hydrogen, as both are needed to scale up decarbonized energy supply. A transition to renewable energy is predicted over time, but the urgency we are facing cannot be met by renewable energy alone. For blue hydrogen production, the overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are primarily affected by emissions from natural gas production, processing, and transport (CO 2 and methane), as well as process efficiency and carbon capture ratio. Few complete and updated analyses are available that cover the entire blue hydrogen value chain with the best available technology for process facilities, as well as the proper design, operation, and maintenance of all relevant systems and infrastructure. This paper analyses the GHG intensity of blue hydrogen, using recent data as well as input from technology providers on state-of-the-art gas reforming technologies. Data are primarily based on natural gas production and transport in the North Sea Basin, with gas export from the Norwegian continental shelf to continental Europe or the United Kingdom, and with blue hydrogen production either in Norway or near pipeline landfall in the European Union or United Kingdom. Some data related to potential blue hydrogen production in the US Appalachian region are also given. The data show that the properly designed and operated value chains for blue hydrogen supply, with minimal emissions from natural gas supply and high carbon capture in hydrogen production, will give a major reduction in GHG emissions from energy end-use. GHG footprint for end-users based on blue hydrogen will typically be 80%-90% lower than for direct supply and use of natural gas.

Low carbon transportation fuels: deployment pathways, opportunities and challenges

“…These findings are in line with recent publications. 154,157,158 5.3 Ammonia, liquefied hydrogen and methanol: marine vessels Aside from low carbon drop-in fuels compatible with existing vessels and bunkering infrastructure, alternative fuels including ammonia, hydrogen and methanol are widely regarded as the main options that can deliver deep levels of decarbonization in the marine sector. 22 Of these fuels, ammonia and methanol are often cited as leading contenders.…”

“…For methane reforming with CCS, the WtW emissions reductions depend on the reforming technology, the CO 2 capture rate, the emissions intensity of the natural gas supply chain, as well as the carbon intensity of the electricity consumed in the process. 154 The lifecycle GHG emissions reductions range from approximately 41% to 82% for the low and high scenarios, and 68% for the base case, which assumes SMR technology with a 90% capture rate. Although SMR is the benchmark process used for hydrogen production, 155 achieving high CO 2 capture rates requires removal of CO 2 from the high-pressure syngas (limited to ∼60%) and from the fired heater flue gas.…”