Exploring Clean Energy Solutions in the Intermountain West Region
Key Ideas
  • Two new papers authored by Mohamed Mehana from Los Alamos National Laboratory focus on well retrofitting and clean hydrogen production in the Intermountain West region.
  • The papers highlight the feasibility of repurposing old well bores for carbon sequestration and utilizing legacy infrastructure for cost-effective clean energy production.
  • Proximity of energy sources, storage sites, and high energy-demand regions in the area make clean hydrogen production more economically viable, especially with production tax credits available.
  • The research emphasizes the importance of understanding the region's resources and characteristics to facilitate an energy transition towards a net-zero future.
The Earth and Environmental Sciences division at Los Alamos National Laboratory has published two significant papers by Mohamed Mehana that delve into the potential for clean energy solutions in the Intermountain West region of the United States. These papers focus on the feasibility of well retrofitting and clean hydrogen production as means to address carbon dioxide emissions and move towards a net-zero future. Mehana emphasizes that without action, over 5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide would be released annually in the region, equivalent to the exhaust emissions of 1 million cars. The papers propose repurposing old well bores for carbon sequestration and leveraging legacy infrastructure to make clean energy production more cost-effective. One key aspect highlighted is the importance of a place-based approach to climate issues, considering the unique geography and history of the Intermountain West region. The research stresses the need for a holistic understanding of the region's resources to optimize the energy system and ensure energy security. An economic assessment in one of the papers showcases the potential for clean hydrogen production from fossil fuels in the region. By utilizing existing infrastructure and the proximity of energy sources, storage sites, and demand regions, clean hydrogen becomes a more attainable and economically feasible option. Production tax credits further enhance the economic viability of clean hydrogen methods. Overall, these papers underscore the importance of transitioning towards sustainable energy solutions in the Intermountain West region and the role of technological advancements and economic assessments in driving this transition.
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