By Asima Jawad Jalap

As the world races to combat climate change and build a sustainable future, green hydrogen emerges as a shining beacon of hope. This clean, renewable fuel is produced by harnessing nature’s own resources, such as sunlight and wind. It promises to revolutionize energy systems by offering a powerful alternative to fossil fuels without the burden of carbon emissions. Whether powering vehicles, industries, or entire cities, green hydrogen holds the key to unlocking a cleaner, greener tomorrow for generations to come.

In this blog, we will explore what green hydrogen is and how it is produced through electrolysis. We will also discuss the types of technologies involved and its role in decarbonizing industries and transportation. Additionally, we will examine the current challenges green hydrogen faces. Finally, we will explain how the Progressive Climate Foundation envisions supporting its growth for a sustainable future.

What is Green Hydrogen?

Electrolysis produces green hydrogen by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity from renewable sources. Iberdrola explains that since the electricity comes from renewables, production generates zero greenhouse gas emissions. This attribute makes it the cleanest hydrogen form. The World Economic Forum clarifies that, unlike grey or blue hydrogen, which use fossil fuels with or without carbon capture, green hydrogen avoids these emissions. It is vital for achieving net-zero carbon targets.

How Does Green Hydrogen Work?

At the core of green hydrogen production lies the electrolyser. It is a device that splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases by conducting electricity through water.

Renewables Advice describes the process simply:

• At the anode electrode, water molecules lose electrons and release oxygen gas.
• At the cathode electrode, water molecules gain electrons to produce hydrogen gas.
• The electrolyte allows ions to flow between electrodes, completing the electrical circuit.

Because the electricity feeding the electrolyser is renewable, such as from solar panels or wind turbines, the hydrogen gas produced is free of carbon emissions (MECO).

Why Green Hydrogen is a Game-Changer?

Most sectors can reduce emissions by switching to electricity, but heavy industry, shipping, aviation, and chemical production often require high heat or liquid fuels, posing significant challenges. According to Iberdrola, green hydrogen offers a clean fuel alternative for these sectors, enabling substantial carbon reductions.

• Energy Storage for Renewable Power: The intermittent nature of wind and solar power means energy is not always available when needed. The World Economic Forum highlights hydrogen’s key role as an energy storage medium. It converts surplus renewable electricity into hydrogen, which stores energy for later use in generating electricity or fueling vehicles.

• Clean Transportation Fuel: Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles emit only water vapor and provide longer ranges and faster refueling compared to battery electric vehicles, making them ideal for long-haul trucks, buses, and trains (MECO).

• Enhancing Energy Security: Producing hydrogen from local renewable resources reduces dependency on imported fossil fuels and supports domestic economies, as highlighted by Hero Future Energies.

Current Challenges and Solutions

Despite its promise, it faces hurdles:

• Cost: It is currently more expensive than fossil-fuel-based alternatives due to electrolyser and renewable energy costs.
• Infrastructure: Hydrogen distribution and storage infrastructure are still being developed.
• Water Usage: Electrolysis requires clean water, necessitating sustainable water management, especially in arid regions.

Renewables Advice and the World Economic Forum state that global investments are addressing these challenges. Governmental policies and technological advances are rapidly paving the way for wider adoption.

The Future of Green Hydrogen

Experts predict it could supply up to 24% of the world’s energy demand by 2050. It could become a cornerstone of the clean energy system. Countries such as those in the EU, Japan, and Australia invest billions into electrolyser manufacturing, hydrogen infrastructure, and research collaborations. This signals a global movement towards a green hydrogen economy.

Progressive Climate Foundation’s Vision

At the Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF), our commitment to a brighter, greener future aligns with the rise of this technology. PCF envisions a world powered by sustainable, clean energy. In this world, environmental balance and economic progress coexist harmoniously. It fits squarely within this framework as a transformational solution to pressing climate and energy challenges. It embodies the PCF mission of fostering innovative, scalable technologies that reduce carbon emissions without sacrificing energy access or economic growth.

By supporting research, advocacy, and industry collaboration on green hydrogen, PCF aims to:

• Promote Energy Equity: Green hydrogen offers an inclusive clean energy option that can be adapted across diverse regions. These regions include developing countries where traditional grid infrastructure is limited.
• Drive Sustainable Industrial Transformation: PCF emphasizes clean fuel adoption in heavy industries and manufacturing. It is intended to reduce pollution and create green jobs, accelerating the just transition to a low-carbon economy.
• Encourage Holistic Climate Strategies: The PCF approach values integrated energy systems where green hydrogen complements renewables, energy efficiency, and electrification. It will ensure reliable, resilient, and affordable energy for all.
• Support Policy Innovation and Public Awareness: PCF engages policymakers and the public to create conducive environments for green hydrogen’s rapid growth.

As highlighted by global experts from MECO and the World Economic Forum, the green hydrogen economy promises not only to reconcile environmental and economic priorities. It also aims to inspire innovations that can transform societies sustainably.

How You Can Support the Green Hydrogen Revolution?

Individuals, businesses, and governments can all contribute to realizing the potential of green hydrogen. Supporting renewable energy investments, promoting awareness about clean fuel technologies, and advocating for policies that accelerate green hydrogen development are practical steps for widespread impact.

PCF urges its community and partners to champion solutions that will decarbonize industry, clean transportation, and power generation. Together, we can foster a future where it powers progress with minimal environmental footprint, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.

Conclusion: Powering a Cleaner Tomorrow

To sum up, Green hydrogen represents a critical tool in the effort to decarbonize our planet. As MECO and other experts note, by combining abundant renewable power and a simple water-splitting process, it offers a clean fuel. This fuel is capable of transforming transport, industry, and power generation. Educating ourselves and supporting this innovation, as the Progressive Climate Foundation does, empowers a sustainable future for all.

Asima Jawad Jalap is a Website Content Writer at Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF).