What are the Pros & Cons of using Hydrogen as a fuel?

There is also growing interest in hydrogen power as a uniquely clean energy source that can produce heat and whose only by-products are water. Green hydrogen produced from electrolysis, is around 5% of total Hydrogen production. Currently, the vast majority of global hydrogen production derives from fossil fuel sources and will continue to do so for several decades.

So here are the pros of using Hydrogen as a fuel source:

1. Renewable and Readily Available

2. Hydrogen is a Clean and Flexible Energy Source to support Zero-Carbon Energy Strategies

3. More Powerful and Energy Efficient than Fossil Fuels

4. Highly Efficient when Compared to Other Energy Sources

5. Almost Zero Emissions

6. Reduces Carbon Footprints

7. Fast Charging Times

8. No Noise Pollution

9. No Visual Pollution

10. Long Usage Times

11. Ideal for Use in Remote Areas

12. Versatility of Use

13. Democratisation of Power Supply

But there are still several disadvantages of using Hydrogen Fuel Cells, like

1. Hydrogen Extraction

2. Investment is Required

3. Cost of Raw Materials

4. Regulatory Issues

5. Overall Cost

6. Hydrogen Storage

7. Infrastructure

8. Highly Flammable Conclusion.

The advantages are evident, however, there are still a number of challenges to overcome to realise the full potential of hydrogen as a key enabler for a future decarbonised energy system. To achieve this there is the need to scale up decarbonised hydrogen production and fuel cell manufacture and develop the required regulatory framework to clearly define commercial deployment models. On the positive side, hydrogen fuel cells could offer a fully renewable and clean power source for stationary and mobile applications in the near future. Further technological advances to lower the associated costs of extraction, storage and transportation are envisaged, along with further investment in the infrastructure to support it. However, as fossil fuels run out hydrogen could be a key solution for our global energy needs. Hydrogen could become the best solution for the future of our energy requirements but this will require political will and investment to achieve.