Decarbonising New Zealand: Challenges and Opportunities in Transitioning to Green Hydrogen
Key Ideas
  • New Zealand's demand for green hydrogen is estimated at 2.8 Mt/y, with priority applications in fertiliser, methanol, shipping, steel, aviation, and energy storage.
  • Long-term hydrogen storage is seen as crucial for balancing seasonal energy generation, with underground reservoirs considered promising storage sites.
  • Hydrogen is key in decarbonising steel production, with initiatives like hydrogen-based direct reduced iron processes showing feasibility at scale.
  • Exporting hydrogen poses challenges due to transport limitations, with options ranging from cryogenic liquefaction to e-methanol production for easier storage and shipping.
The article discusses the transition to green hydrogen in New Zealand, identifying key areas where hydrogen can play a crucial role in decarbonisation. New Zealand's demand for green hydrogen is estimated to be around 2.8 Mt/y, with priority applications including fertiliser, methanol, shipping, steel, jet fuel, and long-term energy storage. To meet this demand, significant investments in renewable power plants and electrolysers are necessary. The article also highlights the importance of long-term hydrogen storage solutions for balancing energy generation between seasons. It proposes storing large amounts of hydrogen underground, with depleted natural gas reservoirs being promising sites for this purpose. In the steel production sector, hydrogen is seen as a vital tool for decarbonisation, with processes like hydrogen-based direct reduced iron showing feasibility at scale. However, challenges remain in terms of cost efficiency and access to materials like platinum and iridium for electrolysers. Moreover, the article explores the complexities of exporting hydrogen, noting the difficulties in transporting the light gas efficiently. Various methods such as cryogenic liquefaction, ammonia conversion, and e-methanol production are discussed as potential solutions for efficient hydrogen export. Overall, while the transition to green hydrogen presents challenges, the article maintains a positive outlook on the potential of hydrogen to drive decarbonisation efforts in New Zealand's key industries.
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