Hydrogen Power: The One Oppenheimer Would Approve
The highly-anticipated movie Oppenheimer is set to hit theaters soon. Directed by acclaimed director Christopher Nolan, the film depicts J. Robert Oppenheimer’s involvement in the Manhattan Project and his internal struggles with the ethical implications of creating the world’s first atomic bombs. This devastating new technology was powered by nuclear fission of enriched uranium and plutonium. While nuclear weapons have fortunately only been used in conflict twice in history, their very existence continues to pose an existential threat to humanity. However, this film can also serve as an inspiration and reminder that the same atomic power that fuels weapons of mass destruction may also be harnessed for the benefit of humankind.
Oppenheimer’s story underscores how a single technology can be used for both good and evil. Nuclear physics gave us both the atomic bomb and nuclear power. In a similar vein, hydrogen has powered both the unspeakable destruction of thermonuclear weapons via nuclear fusion, as well as offering immense promise as a green fuel of the future. Much like nuclear energy emerged from the ashes of WWII, hydrogen fuel cells and the broader hydrogen economy may transform our energy system and enable a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Hydrogen fuel cells have unique advantages over other energy technologies. Fuel cells combining hydrogen and oxygen electrochemically produce electricity without any direct greenhouse gas emissions. The only byproduct is water. Compared to batteries, fuel cells can offer longer runtimes before refueling. Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy like solar and wind. This “green hydrogen” is a completely carbon-free energy carrier. Renewably-produced hydrogen may one day fuel everything from vehicles to ships to power plants.
Several trends make a hydrogen economy seem ever more feasible. Costs for fuel cells and electrolyzers continue to fall. More renewables are coming online globally to produce green hydrogen. Major corporations and governments worldwide are investing billions into hydrogen R&D and infrastructure. 2021 saw a record number of companies announce new hydrogen projects and partnerships. Several countries have released ambitious national hydrogen strategies and roadmaps.
Hydrogen has some key advantages over other solutions for decarbonizing transport and energy. Batteries are very heavy, limiting electric vehicle range. Hydrogen fuel cell cars like the Toyota Mirai can achieve similar ranges to gasoline vehicles. Hydrogen can be stored over long durations and eases grid management challenges from the intermittency of renewables. Gas pipelines and storage facilities can be repurposed for hydrogen. Fuel cells can directly replace fossil fuel generators and turbines. For specific applications in heavy transport (ships, rail, trucks) and industry (steel, fertilizer, refining), hydrogen may be the most viable zero-carbon option.
Challenges Being Overcome
That said, hydrogen is not without its challenges. While costs are declining, hydrogen remains more expensive than conventional fuels. Storage and transportation of hydrogen can be complex. Fuel cell durability and reliability need further improvement. Codes and standards will need updating to ensure safe use of hydrogen. Consumer awareness and acceptance of hydrogen vehicles lag other options. Renewably-produced hydrogen needs to scale up dramatically to realize a green hydrogen economy.
But the momentum is clearly growing. Major industrial gas producers like Air Products and Linde are ramping up investments in green hydrogen. Vehicle manufacturers Toyota, Hyundai, Volvo, and Cummins are expanding their fuel cell offerings. Oil and gas giants BP, Shell, and Saudia Aramco are setting ambitious hydrogen goals. The E.U., Japan, Australia, Germany, France, and other countries have released supportive policies and funding for hydrogen pilots and infrastructure. California already has over 40 retail hydrogen stations.
Hydrogen: The Future?
The upcoming movie Oppenheimer has sparked a cultural conversation about atomic power and humanity’s responsibility in wielding new technology. Similarly, we have an obligation to direct hydrogen toward positive ends. With wise policies and innovation, hydrogen can help forge a cleaner energy system. If Oppenheimer sought redemption by enabling nuclear energy, today we can realize hydrogen’s promise while avoiding its perils. The “father of the atomic bomb” would likely approve of hydrogen fueling a more peaceful and sustainable future.
References
BloombergNEF (2020). Hydrogen Economy Outlook: Key Messages. https://data.bloomberglp.com/professional/sites/24/BNEF-Hydrogen-Economy-Outlook-Key-Messages-30-Mar-2020.pdf
International Energy Agency. (2021). Global hydrogen review 2021. https://www.iea.org/reports/global-hydrogen-review-2021
Larsen, J., Herndon, W., Houser, T., Marsters, P., Mohan, S., & Way, D. (2020). Net-zero America: Potential pathways, infrastructure, and impacts. Princeton University. https://environmenthalfcentury.princeton.edu/sites/g/files/toruqf331/files/2020-12/Princeton_NZA_Interim_Report_15_Dec_2020_FINAL.pdf
GeniusGurus.com
Check out our upcoming courses (GeniusGurus.com) on Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology which covers the hydrogen economy from the working of fuel cells to production and from implementation in the automotive industry to future outlook.
