The colors of hydrogen are plentiful, and they also include blue. In this case, the color is not so much a reference to the ocean. Instead, it represents an intermediary step between grey and green. But does it make sens to go half-sustainable?
What is blue hydrogen? #
This variant of hydrogen is produced primarily through a process known as steam methane reforming (SMR). Natural gas is still the feedstock. The distinctive feature of blue hydrogen lies in its carbon capture and storage (CCS) approach. During production, a part of the carbon dioxide emissions are captured and stored underground. Alternatively, they may be utilized in other industrial applications. In both cases, the environmental footprint associated with hydrogen production is reduced. It is important to be aware that not the entire quantity of carbon dioxide emissions may be captured and stored. The technology is new, it is only recently that the first production facilitiy was certified.
Environmental benefit #
The fact that such hydrogen is still of fossil origin and that during its production process, both methane and carbon dioxide emissions may contribute to global warming, has sparked debates about its environmental friendliness in the public and among scholars alike. While one of the first publications on the questions concluded that emissions may be very high, primarily due to methane emissions, other studies have concluded that if things are done right, it may be very beneficial for the environment. In summary, it is safe to state that blue hydrogen ought to be enjoyed with care.
The upside of blue hydrogen #
In our view, a clear upside is that any hydrogen helps the development of the industry. At this early stage, the inavailability of any hydrogen may be a serious concern for users. If the availability of fossil but more environmetally friendly blue hydrogen facilitates the switch to this new energy carrier, this is clearly positive. However, it remains important to be wary and to always check “what is inside” when a hydrogen product is labeled as blue.
