Hydrogen: A Crucial Element for Transforming Heavy Industries - Newsletter 18.10.2023
In the pursuit of a sustainable future, hydrogen is emerging as an important player in transforming heavy industries like cement and steel production.
As we grapple with the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards cleaner energy sources, hydrogen presents itself as a key solution. Not only to save our environment – hydrogen also provides one of the best possibilities to generate more income for certain industries.
Heavy industries, such as cement and steel production, are known for their substantial carbon footprint. These sectors are responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions, making them prime targets for efforts to reduce environmental impact. Hydrogen offers several advantages that are particularly suited to the needs of these industries.
1. Low Carbon Emissions:
Hydrogen, when produced using clean energy sources like wind, solar, or nuclear power, has the potential to produce zero carbon emissions. This is in stark contrast to the carbon-intensive processes currently used in heavy industries. By incorporating hydrogen into their operations, these sectors can significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Decarbonization of Fuel Sources:
Cement and steel production require vast amounts of energy, often sourced from fossil fuels. Hydrogen can serve as a versatile fuel source, replacing coal and natural gas, which will lead to a dramatic reduction in emissions. Moreover, the production of hydrogen through water electrolysis can be powered by renewable energy, ensuring a clean supply chain.
3. Enhanced Efficiency:
Hydrogen can also improve the efficiency of heavy industrial processes. For example, in the steel industry, hydrogen can be used to reduce iron ore, resulting in a more efficient and environmentally friendly production process.
Several heavy industries have already begun to embrace hydrogen as a means of reducing their carbon emissions:
1. Thyssenkrupp's Hydrogen-Based Steel Production: In Germany, the steel giant Thyssenkrupp has embarked on a project to produce steel using hydrogen, significantly reducing carbon emissions. This pioneering effort demonstrates the feasibility of transitioning heavy industries towards cleaner production methods.
2. Cement Manufacturing with Hydrogen: Various pilot projects are exploring the use of hydrogen in cement manufacturing. The addition of hydrogen to the cement kiln process can reduce CO2 emissions by producing water vapor instead of carbon dioxide, thus contributing to more sustainable cement production.
It's often argued that transitioning to hydrogen-based processes may come with significant upfront costs. However, a closer look reveals that the long-term benefits outweigh these initial investments:
1. Reduced Operational Costs: While the initial investment in hydrogen infrastructure may be substantial, heavy industries can expect reduced operational costs in the long run. Hydrogen's efficiency, lower maintenance requirements, and the ability to produce it using renewable energy sources can lead to substantial savings.
2. Carbon Pricing and Market Demand: As global carbon pricing mechanisms become more widespread and consumers increasingly prioritize environmentally friendly products, companies that reduce their carbon emissions will likely have a competitive advantage. Transitioning to hydrogen-based processes can position heavy industries to meet these market demands.
The integration of hydrogen into heavy industries like cement and steel production is a pivotal step in reducing carbon emissions and achieving a sustainable future. The real-world examples of hydrogen implementation in these sectors show that the transition is not only possible but also economically advantageous in the long term. It is time for these industries to embrace hydrogen as a means to protect the planet while safeguarding their own economic interests. By doing so, they can lead the way in the global effort to combat climate change.
More interesting hydrogen news for this week:
Demand for green hydrogen will skyrocket in the EU after the 27 member states finally approved the protracted Renewable Energy Directive. Member states agree that 42% of hydrogen used by industry and 1% of transport fuel must be renewable by 2030.
https://www.hydrogeninsight.com/policy/demand-for-green-hydrogen-to-skyrocket-after-eu-nations-approve-mandatory-usage-targets-in-industry-and-transport/2-1-1531720
From transportation to heavy industries, clean hydrogen has emerged as a key element in the transition to climate neutrality — and the EU wants to ensure that the fossil-fuel alternative joins its arsenal. The next step is the first auction of the Hydrogen Bank, set to open on November 23. The auction will award up to €800m to EEA-based clean hydrogen producers. https://thenextweb.com/news/europe-outpaces-us-china-in-hydrogen-investment?h2fd
Stadler has been awarded what it calls a ‘transformative’ contract to supply hydrogen fuel cell multiple-units to California. The contract signed with the California State Transportation Agency and California Department of Transportation on October 12 includes a $80m firm order for four trains, with options for up to 25 more.
https://www.railwaygazette.com/traction-and-rolling-stock/california-orders-hydrogen-trains/65114.article
MissionH24 has unveiled a new, as-yet-unnamed hydrogen-electric prototype concept. This vehicle is scheduled to commence track testing in 2025 and is projected to be considerably faster than its current model. Co-president Jean-Michel Bouresche of Mission H24 has hailed this new car as “the next exciting step in our journey towards zero-carbon motorsport”. It is designed to weigh 1300kg, which is 116kg lighter than the H24, and is expected to reach a speed of 320km/h.
https://www.motorsport.com/lemans/news/new-hydrogen-electric-missionh24-prototype-revealed-with-focus-on-performance/10531625/
Suzuki chose the 2023 Japan Mobility Show as the place to unveil its first-ever hydrogen-powered two-wheeler to the world. The company is calling it a test vehicle, not a concept—but Suzuki is currently researching hydrogen engine development and has yet to put it into any level of production. The exhibit will include a test vehicle cutaway that uses a Burgman 400 ABS outfitted with a 70 megapascal (MPa) hydrogen tank and its corresponding engine. https://www.rideapart.com/news/689922/suzuki-hydrogen-japan-mobility-2023/
In case you missed it:
