A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at a major university in Sydney promises to revolutionize the global hydrogen supply chain, enhancing the viability of hydrogen as a key player in the renewable energy sector. The study, recently published in a prestigious energy journal, presents a new model that could significantly lower the costs and improve the efficiency of hydrogen transportation and storage.
With international demand for hydrogen projected to increase sixfold by 2050 to meet net-zero climate targets, the challenge of creating effective supply chains for long-distance hydrogen transport is more pressing than ever. The study explores the use of methanol as a hydrogen carrier, which has been identified as the most cost-effective method for shipping hydrogen globally.
The research analyzed eight different supply chain configurations using two types of electrolysers and four hydrogen carriers. The findings revealed that converting hydrogen into methanol offers the highest energy density and is the most economical option, costing $8.87 per kilogram of hydrogen delivered. Liquefied hydrogen followed closely at $9 per kilogram.
Transportation costs were highlighted as the most significant factor affecting hydrogen production costs across all supply chain pathways. The study’s lead author emphasized the importance of understanding whether the goal is to export hydrogen as an atom or as energy, as each requires a different supply chain strategy.
The abundance of renewable resources and a stable economy position some regions as ideal for attracting investments to build these green value chains. These areas could serve as pivotal points for exporting renewable energy in the form of green hydrogen, methanol, or ammonia to markets across the globe, thus enhancing global energy diversification and security.
The study also underscores the potential of green methanol as an effective carrier for exporting renewable energy at competitive costs, which could pave the way for a greener, low-carbon future.
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