Exploring the Role of Hydrogen in Sustainable Energy Mix for Horticulture
Key Ideas
- Hydrogen is being considered as a replacement for natural gas in the energy mix for greenhouse horticulture, aiming for a more sustainable approach.
- The project 'The Role of Hydrogen in the Sustainable Energy Mix for Horticulture' by Wageningen University & Research involves various stakeholders to analyze scenarios and guide investments.
- The study explores the transition from natural gas Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems to hydrogen-based solutions like fuel cells, addressing the need for sustainability in energy production.
- Different sustainable alternatives such as geothermal energy and heat pumps are also being evaluated alongside hydrogen to determine the most effective and environmentally friendly options for the future.
In Wageningen, The Netherlands, Wageningen University & Research is conducting a project to explore the role of hydrogen in the sustainable energy mix for greenhouse horticulture. The aim is to reduce dependency on natural gas, the current primary energy source, and transition towards more sustainable alternatives. The project involves a comprehensive scenario study to analyze the potential for hydrogen to replace natural gas in Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems. By involving stakeholders from various sectors, the study aims to provide valuable data to shape future plans for the energy grid's defossilization. The research considers the impact of transitioning to hydrogen-powered solutions like fuel cells, which offer the benefit of reduced CO₂ emissions. However, this shift also raises considerations such as changes in by-product generation and the need to explore other sustainable options like geothermal energy and heat pumps. The project is supported by multiple organizations and companies in the horticulture industry and is expected to contribute to the development of regional sustainable energy grids.