Hydrogen: Power for the Future?

In the past few years, there’s been much discourse about the potential of hydrogen power. According to experts, it could be the sustainable solution we’ve been hoping for. However, the energy industry has been burnt before with “innovations” that cause major disruption and prove to be fundamentally unreliable.

Today, we’re going to delve beneath the surface of the hydrogen conversation, highlighting some of the benefits, and drawbacks, of this potential energy future.

What is hydrogen power?

As one of the most abundant elements on the planet, hydrogen has immense potential in the sustainable power arena. Not only is it an extremely efficient fuel, with a much higher conversion rate than traditional fossil fuels, but the only byproduct of its combustion is water. As a result, many of its supporters see it being commonly used to create electricity, heat, or to power vehicles.

Is it actually sustainable?

It certainly has the potential to be a clean energy source. Hydrogen has two main benefits over fossil fuels: it’s not at risk of running out and it doesn’t produce any emissions at the point of use. Switching to hydrogen-based power production could slash global emissions of greenhouse gases and limit the damage done by the mining and exploitation of fossil fuels. While there are still questions around the energy required to generate hydrogen in the first place, the balance of emissions is definitely in its favour.

Isn’t hydrogen flammable? How safe is it?

Yes, hydrogen is exceptionally flammable, which can be a concern for those interested in taking it on as a power source. However, in settings like a hydrogen generator, the element is properly managed, ensuring that it’s just as safe as traditional diesel generators.

That’s all good on paper, but does it actually work in the real world?

Like all innovations, the problems facing hydrogen power are less to do with the element itself and more to do with the infrastructure surrounding it. In various ways, this is similar to the challenges faced by early adopters of electric vehicles. The UK in 2025 doesn’t have the production facilities, pipelines, and refuelling stations necessary to support any hydrogen-powered industry and it could take decades for this to develop.

Another concern is the cost. Like all new technologies, early adopters of hydrogen power can expect to pay a steep price tag. This includes the cost of hydrogen production (which is yet to be developed to an industrial scale) as well as new generators, battery storage, and fuel cells. In an unstable economy, many, if not most, businesses can’t afford to invest such significant capital into an unproven energy source. Slow uptake may determine the end of hydrogen power before it’s even had the chance to start.

How can Dawsongroup help?

Dawsongroup energy solutions is committed to supporting your energy wellness, bringing unique solutions to help you make the most of your power. We’re dedicated to being at the forefront of energy access, offering our customers the opportunity to trail new technologies without upfront capital investment. As we continue to monitor the development of hydrogen fuel, we’re here to keep you informed and support you with your journey towards long-term, reliable power.

Got questions? Contact our team today to find out how our Smarter Asset Strategy can help you to to establish your energy future.