- Green hydrogen is hydrogen gas (H₂) produced through a carbon-free process that uses renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or hydro power, to split water into hydrogen and oxygen via electrolysis. Unlike grey hydrogen (made from fossil fuels without emissions controls) or blue hydrogen (made from fossil fuels with carbon capture and storage), green hydrogen emits no greenhouse gases during production, making it a key player in the global effort to decarbonize energy systems and fight climate change.
- The production of green hydrogen relies on electrolyzers, devices that use an electrical current to split water (H₂O) into its components:
- 2H₂O → 2H₂ + O₂
- When powered by electricity from renewable sources, this process becomes entirely emissions-free. The hydrogen gas can then be stored, transported, and used in a wide range of applications—from fuel cells and electricity generation to industrial processes, transportation, and chemical manufacturing.
- One of the major advantages of green hydrogen is its potential to replace fossil fuels in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize, such as steel and cement production, long-haul trucking, shipping, and aviation. It can also be used to store excess renewable electricity generated during periods of low demand or high production, helping to balance the power grid and increase the reliability of intermittent energy sources like wind and solar.
- Despite its promise, green hydrogen faces several challenges. The main barrier is cost. Electrolysis is currently more expensive than fossil fuel-based hydrogen production, largely because of the high cost of renewable electricity and electrolyzer systems. However, as renewable energy becomes cheaper and more widespread, and electrolyzer technology improves, the cost of green hydrogen is expected to fall significantly. According to industry forecasts, it could become cost-competitive with grey and blue hydrogen within the next decade.
- Infrastructure is another hurdle. Large-scale adoption of green hydrogen will require major investments in production facilities, pipelines, storage systems, and refueling stations. Additionally, there are technical and regulatory challenges related to hydrogen handling, safety, and integration into existing energy systems.
- Governments and private companies around the world are increasingly supporting green hydrogen through national strategies, subsidies, and pilot projects. The European Union, Japan, Australia, and several other countries have made green hydrogen a central part of their climate and energy policies. These efforts aim to scale up production, lower costs, and establish international supply chains for a future hydrogen economy.
