Decarbonising with Hydrogen: Challenges and Opportunities for New Zealand
Key Ideas
  • Global forecasts vary for green hydrogen demand, with challenges in shifting from fossil fuels to emissions-free production.
  • New Zealand's potential green hydrogen demand is around 2.8 Mt/y, with key applications in fertiliser, methanol, shipping, steel, and energy storage.
  • Long-term hydrogen storage and decarbonising steel production are pressing applications for hydrogen usage.
  • Exporting hydrogen from New Zealand poses challenges due to transport logistics and infrastructure limitations.
Hydrogen is seen as a versatile tool for decarbonisation, with the potential to address various energy needs. However, the shift from fossil fuel-based hydrogen to green hydrogen poses significant challenges. Global forecasts for green hydrogen demand vary, with Bloomberg's 2050 forecast suggesting a downward trend. In New Zealand, research indicates a potential demand of 2.8 Mt/y for green hydrogen, with applications in key sectors like fertiliser, methanol, shipping, steel, and energy storage. Challenges include the need for significant renewable power capacity and electrolysers for production. Long-term hydrogen storage and decarbonising steel production are identified as critical applications, alongside the complexities of exporting hydrogen due to logistical constraints. Costs remain a barrier, with efforts to reduce electrolyser costs and explore alternative hydrogen production methods. New Zealand's unique geology offers potential for innovative approaches like 'gold' and 'orange' hydrogen production. Despite challenges, the article maintains a positive outlook on the opportunities hydrogen presents for decarbonisation.
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