Produced from renewable sources like water electrolysis powered by solar or wind energy, hydrogen is key to a sustainable energy future.
Among the most advanced technologies for producing green hydrogen is water electrolysis, which uses renewable electricity to separate water into hydrogen and oxygen. Within this category, alkaline, proton exchange membrane (PEM), and solid oxide (SOE) electrolyzers are the most commonly used. PEM electrolyzers are gaining popularity due to their high efficiency and ability to adapt to the intermittency of renewable energy sources. Additionally, advances in storage and transportation, such as the use of liquid hydrogen or metal hydrides, are improving the logistical feasibility of this technology. New techniques, such as photoelectrolysis and biological hydrogen production, are also being explored, promising greater sustainability in the future.
Production Costs and Capacities:
Currently, the production cost of green hydrogen ranges from $3 to $7 per kilogram, depending on the cost of renewable electricity and the efficiency of the electrolyzer. While it is more expensive than gray hydrogen (produced from natural gas), green hydrogen costs are expected to decrease significantly as renewable energy prices drop and more economical, efficient electrolyzers are developed. In terms of capacity, large-scale projects such as the NEOM plant in Saudi Arabia are being implemented, which will have a production capacity of 650 tons of green hydrogen per day once completed. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as an essential component in the global energy transition.
