2019 hydrogen energy storage

What are the options for the large-scale storage of hydrogen?

In this article, options for the large-scale storage of hydrogen are reviewed and compared based on fundamental thermodynamic and engineering aspects. The application of certain storage technologies, such as liquid hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, and dibenzyltoluene, is found to be advantageous in terms of storage density, cost of storage, and safety.

Are hydrogen storage systems economically feasible?

Techno-economic feasibility of current hydrogen storage systems is yet to be realized. None of the existing metal hydrides fulfill all the essential criteria for a practical hydrogen economy due to low hydrogen storage capacity, sluggish kinetics, and unacceptable temperatures of hydrogen absorption/desorption.

Will hydrogen storage be significant in 2050?

According to IRENA’s analysis (2019b), storage needs for integrating large shares of solar and wind power will grow significantly in 2050, compared to today. The production of a very large volume of hydrogen from renewable power in combination with hydrogen storage can help provide long-term seasonal flexibility to the system (Figure 6).

Is hydrogen stored on a large scale?

Previous work related to the storage of hydrogen on a large scale is relatively scarce. Most of this work focuses on underground storage, with a few exceptions.

Can hydrogen be stored in solid form?

Based on several investigations, reported in literature, it is observed that the storage of hydrogen in solid form is more suitable option to overcome the challenges like its storage and transportation. In this form, hydrogen can be stored by absorption (metal hydrides and complex hydrides) and adsorption (carbon materials).

Is hydrogen a viable energy storage option for a high-renewables energy system?

Hydrogen can play a key role for seasonal storage in power systems with a high share of variable renewable energy. A recent study for Northern Europe concluded that despite the relatively low 45% cycle efficiency, power-to-gas electricity storage would be beneficial and economically viable in a high-renewables scenario for 2050.