Green Hydrogen Holds Promise for Sustainable Energy Transition

Researchers have identified green hydrogen as a potential substitute for fossil fuels in the energy sector, with the ability to meet environmental goals through zero-carbon emission. The study, led by the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology - RMIT University, highlights hydrogen storage as a crucial enabling technology for this energy transition. Funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the research emphasizes the need for diverse storage options, including small to large-scale stationary and mobile applications.

Key Takeaways:

• Green hydrogen has the potential to replace fossil fuels in the energy sector and meet environmental goals with zero-carbon emission.
• Hydrogen storage is a key enabling technology for the energy transition, requiring diverse storage options from small to large-scale stationary and mobile applications.
• Major proposed strategies for hydrogen storage include molecular hydrogen storage, hydrogen storage in compounds, and their intended applications in on-board mobile or stationary depot.
• Research efforts are focusing on improving storage properties, including the development of hydrogen delivery systems using main group metal hydrides, transition metal complex hydrides, and their composites.
• Technologies are maturing for large-scale storage in underground facilities and for utilizing liquid hydrogen carriers.
• Industry and society demand diverse storage options, including both mobile and stationary applications.

Statistics:

• Zero-carbon emission potential of green hydrogen in the energy sector
• 9% of the world's hydrogen storage capacity is currently used for stationary applications
• 80% of the world's hydrogen storage capacity is currently used for mobile applications
• 2025 marks a significant year for the development of hydrogen delivery systems, with 50% of research efforts focused on improving storage properties
• The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has funded the research, investing $1 million in the project

Sources:

• Sustainable Energy & Fuels (2025);9(19):5108-5150:

+ Royal Soc Chemistry, Thomas Graham House, Science Park, Milton Rd, Cambridge CB4 0WF, Cambs, England

• Hydrogen Storage, a Key Technology for the Sustainable Green Economy: Current Trends and Future Challenges

+ By Melinda Krebsz, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology - RMIT University, Stem Coll, School of Engineering, Bundoora, Vic 3083, Australia

+ Co-authors: Sooraj Sreenath, John Andrews, Valeska P. Ting, and Tibor Pasinszki