Green Hydrogen- A Reliable Source Of Energy In The Chemical Industry

Green hydrogen can be used as a clean fuel source in various industries, including the chemical industry. The use of green hydrogen in the chemical industry is not just an energy source but also has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is because green hydrogen fuel is a zero-emissions fuel since its only byproduct is water.

What is Green Hydrogen?

Green hydrogen is the hydrogen produced from renewable sources such as solar, wind, or hydropower. The process involves generating the electricity needed for electrolysis for splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen to produce green hydrogen. The hydrogen produced in this process is considered green since it does not rely on natural gas and other fossil fuels as in the case of grey or blue hydrogen.

Green Hydrogen’s Applications In Chemical Industry

• Ammonia Production- One of the main applications of green hydrogen in the chemical industry is the production of ammonia, a key ingredient in fertilizers. Currently, ammonia is produced using natural gas, which is a fossil fuel that releases greenhouse gases when burned. 

• Methanol Production- Another application of green hydrogen in the chemical industry is the production of methanol, which is used as a feedstock to produce various chemicals, including formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl methacrylate. Methanol is currently produced using natural gas or coal, which are both fossil fuels. 

Investment In Green Hydrogen Technology

• International- Several countries, including Germany, Japan, and Australia, have announced plans to invest in developing green hydrogen technologies, aiming to become leaders in the global green hydrogen market. According to a report by the Hydrogen Council, the global hydrogen market could reach $2.5 trillion by 2050, with most of the demand coming from the transportation and chemical sectors.

• Domestic- The Indian government had also sanctioned a staggering sum of Rs 19,744 crore for the execution of the National Green Hydrogen mission in January 2023. Green hydrogen in India is considered to be a potential alternative to conventional fossil fuels and a future source of fuel. 

The primary objective of this initiative is to decrease India’s dependence on oil imports and offer eco-friendly fuel options. Moreover, it aims to establish India as a worldwide center for utilizing, generating, and exporting green hydrogen.

Insight

The use of green hydrogen in the chemical industry indeed is a step in the right direction. With several countries investing in the development of green hydrogen fuel technologies, the global green hydrogen market is expected to see strong growth in the coming years.

Read more: India’s Chemical Industry Forecasted To Reach $1 Trillion By 2040 Despite Projected Trade Deficit