Low Carbon Hydrogen Production (Blue Hydrogen)
As an addition to conventional hydrogen production, the production of blue hydrogen captures the CO2 emissions of the process. This is an option for low-carbon hydrogen that is produced from fossil fuels with Carbon Capture Use and Storage (CCUS). In comparison to green hydrogen, blue hydrogen is less expensive. Although the process does exploit fossil resources, it presents an economically feasible method that could be implemented in industries in different parts of the world. Blue hydrogen, does not eliminate the use of fossil resources but it enables the utilization of CO2 and therefore its reduction. According to the IEA and the report the future of hydrogen, blue hydrogen is a transition energy carrier that facilitates carbon reduction as it is possible to use existing infrastructure and assets that in many cases could be more expensive than alternative energy sources.
Stage of Life Cycle
Products and Processes
GHG Reduction Potential
The blue hydrogen GHG reduction potential in comparison to green hydrogen is rather low. Only 9%–12% less carbon dioxide equivalent is emitted overall with blue hydrogen compared to gray hydrogen. The use of more natural gas to power the carbon capture results in reduced carbon dioxide emissions, but higher fugitive methane emissions for blue hydrogen than for gray hydrogen. Scenario, with even higher emissions in a worst-case scenario (Howarth and Jacobson (2021). The natural gas for heat and high pressure that are required causes GHG emissions.
Solution Maturity Status
Well Established:
This technology has been operating for a number of years and is well-known/ successful in its industry or market.