Hydrogen is a versatile and potentially sustainable energy source that can be used for various applications, such as transportation, heating, and power generation. Green hydrogen is also likely to be key to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. So what is green hydrogen and what makes it green?

What do we mean when we talk of types of hydrogen? All hydrogen is just hydrogen - an element. The fact that it is the most abundant element in the Universe (making up approximately 75% of visible matter) means we are unlikely to run out of it anytime soon. But extracting and refining hydrogen takes energy. When hydrogen is described as “green”, the industry is labelling the process that is used to create it as environmentally sustainable. Green hydrogen production is powered by renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, and does not emit greenhouse gases.

Most hydrogen production uses less sustainable processes - the burning of fossil fuels, because green hydrogen is still relatively expensive to produce, but the cost is expected to come down as the technology matures. There are a number of countries and companies that are investing in green hydrogen, and it is seen as a key technology for decarbonising the global economy.

How can green hydrogen help achieve net-zero emissions?

Green hydrogen can be used to replace fossil fuels in a number of applications. For example, it can be used to power fuel cell vehicles, which produce no emissions. It can also be used to heat homes and businesses, and to generate electricity.

By replacing fossil fuels with green hydrogen, we can reduce our reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources and help to mitigate climate change. Green hydrogen is a promising technology with the potential to play a significant role in a carbon-neutral future.

Green hydrogen alone is unlikely to be the answer to the world’s energy problems. Hydrogen is extremely flammable and volatile so great care must be taken in its storage and transportation. However as production costs decrease, we’ll likely see it taking a more prominent place amongst the raft of measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Forward thinking energy companies are keen to invest in the new technology now.

As the energy industry evolves toward a greener future, the need for skilled and experienced engineers and technicians, hardworking site and project managers, as well as sales and admin assistants continues. If you are looking for a position in the industry, get in touch with our team of consultants or browse our jobs listings. Give our office a call on +44 (0) 1502 564892 or email us cvs@peoplewithenergy.co.uk

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Read more about green hydrogen:

The Future of Hydrogen – Analysis from the IEA

What is Green Hydrogen and its importance

Green Hydrogen: the energy of the future essential for decarbonisation