The potential contribution of hydrogen to societal goals

Abstract

The hydrogen future demonstrated in the Zero Regio and similar projects depends on a continuing government commitment to engage in the development of the technology and promote its use in transport in Europe. The prospects for such a persistent government engagement depend on the extent to which the technology can contribute to the achievements of societal goals. In this paper, the potential contribution to such societal goals from hydrogen and fuel cell technology is reviewed. The goals considered include energy efficiency, ecoefficiency, supply security, and cost-efficiency. The conclusion is that a significant contribution to these goals is beyond 2020 and requires that hydrogen is based on energy sources such as renewables and fourth generation nuclear energy the energy supply of which share these characteristics. High oil prices means that this may also be the most economic solution.