Belgium
Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Wind-based Hydrogen Production in the Netherlands Using Ex-ante LCA and Scenarios Analysis
Mar 2021
Publication
Two electrolysis technologies fed with renewable energy sources are promising for the production of CO2-free hydrogen and enabling the transition to a hydrogen society: Alkaline Electrolyte (AE) and Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM). However limited information exists on the potential environmental impacts of these promising sustainable innovations when operating on a large-scale. To fill this gap the performance of AE and PEM systems is compared using ex-ante Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) technology analysis and exploratory scenarios for which a refined methodology has been developed to study the effects of implementing large-scale sustainable hydrogen production systems. Ex-ante LCA allows modelling the environmental impacts of hydrogen production exploratory scenario analysis allows modelling possible upscaling effects at potential future states of hydrogen production and use in vehicles in the Netherlands in 2050. A bridging tool for mapping the technological field has been created enabling the combination of quantitative LCAs with qualitative scenarios. This tool also enables diversity for exploring multiple sets of visions. The main results from the paper show with an exception for the “ozone depletion” impact category (1) that large-scale AE and PEM systems have similar environmental impacts with variations lower than 7% in all impact categories (2) that the contribution of the electrolyser is limited to 10% of all impact categories results and (3) that the origin of the electricity is the largest contributor to the environmental impact contributing to more than 90% in all impact categories even when renewable energy sources are used. It is concluded that the methodology was applied successfully and provides a solid basis for an ex-ante assessment framework that can be applied to emerging technological systems.
Hydrogen Refuelling Stations in the Netherlands: An Intercomparison of Quantitative Risk Assessments Used for Permitting
May 2018
Publication
As of 2003 15 hydrogen refuelling stations (HRSs) have been deployed in the Netherlands. To become established the HRS has to go through a permitting procedure. An important document of the permitting dossier is the quantitative risk assessment (QRA) as it assesses the risks of the HRS associated to people and buildings in the vicinity of the HRS. In the Netherlands a generic prescribed approach exists on how to perform a QRA however specific guidelines for HRSs do not exist. An intercomparison among the QRAs of permitted HRSs has revealed significant inconsistencies on various aspects of the QRA: namely the inclusion of HRS sub-systems and components the HRS sub-system and component considerations as predefined components the application of failure scenarios the determination of failure frequencies the application of input parameters the consideration of preventive and mitigation measures as well as information provided regarding the HRS surroundings and the societal risk. It is therefore recommended to develop specific QRA guidelines for HRSs.
A Roadmap for Financing Hydrogen Refueling Networks – Creating Prerequisites for H2-based Mobility
Sep 2014
Publication
Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are zero tailpipe emission vehicles. Their large-scale deployment is expected to play a major role in the de-carbonization of transportation in the European Union (EU) and is therefore an important policy element at EU and Member State level.<br/>For FCEVs to be introduced to the market a network of hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS) first has to exist. From a technological point of view FCEVs are ready for serial production already: Hyundaiand Toyota plan to introduce FCEVs into key markets from 2015 and Daimler Ford and Nissan plan to launch mass-market FCEVs in 2017.<br/>At the moment raising funds for building the hydrogen refuelling infrastructure appears to be challenging.<br/>This study explores options for financing the HRS rollout which facilitate the involvement of private lenders and investors. It presents a number of different financing options involving public-sector bank loans funding from private-sector strategic equity investors commercial bank loans private equity and funding from infrastructure investors. The options outline the various requirements forn accessing these sources of funding with regard to project structure incentives and risk mitigation. The financing options were developed on the basis of discussions with stakeholders in the HRS rollout from industry and with financiers.<br/>This study was prepared by Roland Berger in close contact with European Investment banks and a series of private banks.<br/>This study explores in details the business cases for HRS in Germany and UK. The conclusion can be easily extrapolate to other countries.
A Hydrogen Strategy for a Climate-neutral Europe
Jul 2020
Publication
In an integrated energy system hydrogen can support the decarbonisation of industry transport power generation and buildings across Europe. The EU Hydrogen Strategy addresses how to transform this potential into reality through investments regulation market creation and research and innovation.
Hydrogen can power sectors that are not suitable for electrification and provide storage to balance variable renewable energy flows but this can only be achieved with coordinated action between the public and private sector at EU level. The priority is to develop renewable hydrogen produced using mainly wind and solar energy. However in the short and medium term other forms of low-carbon hydrogen are needed to rapidly reduce emissions and support the development of a viable market.
This gradual transition will require a phased approach:
Hydrogen can power sectors that are not suitable for electrification and provide storage to balance variable renewable energy flows but this can only be achieved with coordinated action between the public and private sector at EU level. The priority is to develop renewable hydrogen produced using mainly wind and solar energy. However in the short and medium term other forms of low-carbon hydrogen are needed to rapidly reduce emissions and support the development of a viable market.
This gradual transition will require a phased approach:
- From 2020 to 2024 we will support the installation of at least 6 gigawatts of renewable hydrogen electrolysers in the EU and the production of up to one million tonnes of renewable hydrogen.
- From 2025 to 2030 hydrogen needs to become an intrinsic part of our integrated energy system with at least 40 gigawatts of renewable hydrogen electrolysers and the production of up to ten million tonnes of renewable hydrogen in the EU.
- From 2030 to 2050 renewable hydrogen technologies should reach maturity and be deployed at large scale across all hard-to-decarbonise sectors.
- To help deliver on this Strategy the Commission is launched the European Clean Hydrogen Alliance with industry leaders civil society national and regional ministers and the European Investment Bank. The Alliance will build up an investment pipeline for scaled-up production and will support demand for clean hydrogen in the EU.
Study on the Use of Fuel Cells and Hydrogen in the Railway Environment
Jun 2019
Publication
This study outlines a pathway for commercialisation of stationary fuel cells in distributed generation across Europe. It has been sponsored by the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) a public-private partnership between the European Commission the fuel cell and hydrogen industry and a number of research bodies and associations. The FCH JU supports research technology development and demonstration activities in the field of fuel cell and hydrogen technologies in Europe. The study explores how stationary fuel cells can benefit users how they can be brought to the market what hurdles still exist and how their diffusion may foster Europe's transition into a new energy age.
FCH JU – Key to Sustainable Energy and Transport
Jan 2019
Publication
This brochure offers an overview of the main applications of fuel cell and hydrogen technologies and how they work and provides insights into our programme and our accomplishments.
Fuel Cell Electric Buses: Potential for Sustainable Public Transport in Europe
Oct 2015
Publication
This report provides an outlook for jointly achieving a commercialisation pathway.<br/>Building on the findings of the 2012 FCH JU technology study on alternative powertrains for urban buses this report provides an assessment of the commercialisation pathway from an operational perspective. It reflects the actual situation in which operators deploy large scale demonstration projects in the next years from a rather conservative angle and argues why it makes sense to deploy FC buses now. The insights are based on first-hand data and assessments of the coalition members from the hydrogen and fuel cell industry as well as local governments and public transport operators in Europe.
Fuel Cells and Hydrogen: Joint Undertaking Programme Review 2016 Final Report
Jun 2017
Publication
The Fuel Cell and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking (FCH 2 JU) organised the sixth edition of its Programme Review Days (PRD). 100 projects allocated in 6 panels covering cross-cutting energy and transport in research and demonstration activities have been the basis of the FCH JU's annual review of its research and innovation programme.
Urban Buses: Alternative Powertrains for Europe: A Fact-based Analysis of the Role of Diesel Hybrid, Hydrogen Fuel Cell, Trolley and Battery Electric Powertrains
Dec 2012
Publication
A coalition of 40 industrial companies and government organizations financially supported by the FCH JU elaborated a technology neutral and fact-based comparative study on eight different powertrain technologies for urban buses in Europe from 2012 to 2030.<br/>According to the results of the study only fully electric powertrain buses (based on hydrogen batteries or trolley system) have the potential to achieve zero local emissions by drastically reducing well-to-wheel emissions.<br/>Following the positive comparative result for fuel cell hydrogen urban buses the FCH JU will launch a follow-up study that more specifically defines real uptake scenarios for market entry scheduled to starting before summer 2013.
Fuel Cells and Hydrogen: Joint Undertaking Programme Review 2011 Final Report
Apr 2012
Publication
The Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) has the ambitious objective to place Europe at the forefront of the development commercialization and deployment of fuel cells and hydrogen technologies as of 2015. About €470 million over a six year period have been granted by the European Union to achieve this and private funds are being attracted to support the same ambition as part of the global European effort embedded in the multi-annual implementation plan MAIP (2008-2013).
Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Technologies in Europe: Financial and Technology Outlook on the European Sector Ambition 2014-2020
Nov 2011
Publication
Sustainable secure and competitive energy supply and transport services are at the heart of the EU2020 strategy towards a low carbon and inclusive economy geared towards a reduction of 80% of CO2 emissions by 2050. This objective has been endorsed by the European Institutions and Member States. It is widely recognised that a technological shift and the deployment of new clean technologies are critical for a successful transition to such a new sustainable economy. Furthermore in addition to bringing a healthier environment and securing energy supply innovation will provide huge opportunities for the European economy. However this paradigm shift will not be purely driven by the market. A strong and determined commitment of public institutions and the private sector together are necessary to support the European political ambition. The period 2014-2020 will be critical to ensure that the necessary investments are realized to support the EU2020 vision. In terms of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies significant investments are required for (a) transportation for scaling up the car fleet and building up of refuelling infrastructure needs (b) hydrogen production technologies to integrate renewable intermittent power sources to the electrical grid (wind and solar) (c) stationary fuel cell applications with large demonstration projects in several European cities and (d) identified early markets (material handling vehicles back-up power systems) to allow for volume developments and decrease of system-costs.<br/>This Report summarizes the sector’s financial ambition to reach Europe’s objectives in 2020.
Hydrogen Safety Aspects Related to High Pressure - PEM Water Electrolysis
Sep 2007
Publication
Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) water electrolysis has demonstrated its potentialities in terms of cell efficiency (energy consumption ≈ 4.0-4.2 kW/Nm3 H2) and gas purity (> 99.99% H2). Current research activities are aimed at increasing operating pressure up to several hundred bars for direct storage of hydrogen in pressurized vessels. Compared to atmospheric pressure electrolysis high-pressure operation yields additional problems especially with regard to safety considerations. In particular the rate of gases (H2 and O2) cross-permeation across the membrane and their water solubility both increase with pressure. As a result gas purity is affected in both anodic and cathodic circuits and this can lead to the formation of explosive gas mixtures. To prevent such risks two different solutions reported in this communication have been investigated. First the chemical modification of the solid polymer electrolyte in order to reduce cross-permeation phenomena. Second the use of catalytic H2/O2 recombiners to maintain H2 levels in O2 and O2 levels in H2 at values compatible with safety requirements.
European Hydrogen Safety Training Platform for First Responders- Hyresponse Project
Sep 2013
Publication
The paper presents HyResponse project i.e. a European Hydrogen Safety Training Platform that targets to train First responders to acquire professional knowledge and skills to contribute to FCH permitting process as approving authority. The threefold training program is described: educational training operational-level training on mock-up real scale transport and hydrogen stationary installations and innovative virtual training exercises reproducing entire accident scenarios. The paper highlights how the three pilot sessions for European First Responders in a face to face mode will be organized to get a feedback on the training program. The expected outputs are also presented i.e. the Emergency Response Guide and a public website including teaching material and online interactive virtual training.
Challenges in the Use of Hydrogen for Maritime Applications
Jan 2021
Publication
Maritime shipping is a key factor that enables the global economy however the pressure it exerts on the environment is increasing rapidly. In order to reduce the emissions of harmful greenhouse gasses the search is on for alternative fuels for the maritime shipping industry. In this work the usefulness of hydrogen and hydrogen carriers is being investigated as a fuel for sea going ships. Due to the low volumetric energy density of hydrogen under standard conditions the need for efficient storage of this fuel is high. Key processes in the use of hydrogen are discussed starting with the production of hydrogen from fossil and renewable sources. The focus of this review is different storage methods and in this work we discuss the storage of hydrogen at high pressure in liquefied form at cryogenic temperatures and bound to liquid or solid-state carriers. In this work a theoretical introduction to different hydrogen storage methods precedes an analysis of the energy-efficiency and practical storage density of the carriers. In the final section the major challenges and hurdles for the development of hydrogen storage for the maritime industry are discussed. The most likely challenges will be the development of a new bunkering infrastructure and suitable monitoring of the safety to ensure safe operation of these hydrogen carriers on board the ship.
Trends in Investments, Jobs and Turnover in the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Sector
Mar 2013
Publication
The Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) commissioned this report to a consultancy to get a better understanding of the past and future evolution of the European Fuel Cell and Hydrogen (FC&H) sector and the role that public support has in that evolution.
The results of this report are based on three data sources:
The results of this report are based on three data sources:
- Survey results: A survey was sent out to 458 companies that are liaised to the FCH JU. 154 people responded. (see list in annex)
- Desk research: A wide range of industry reports was consulted to supplement and cross check the results of the survey. However given the still nascent state of the industry the information gathered with this exercise was limited.
- Interviews: Key stakeholders in the European FC&H sector were interviewed to get the qualitative story behind the results from the survey and the desk research. These stakeholders varied from fuel cell manufacturers to government officials from energy companies to automotive OEMs
Comparison of Hydrogen and Battery Electric Trucks
Jul 2020
Publication
Only emissions-free vehicles which include battery electric (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell trucks (FCEVs) can provide for a credible long-term pathway towards the full decarbonisation of the road freight sector. This document lays out the methodology and assumptions which were used to calculate the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the two vehicle technologies for regional delivery and long-haul truck applications. It also discusses other criteria such as refuelling and recharging times as well as potential payload losses.
Link to Document Download on Transport & Environment website
Link to Document Download on Transport & Environment website
European Hydrogen Safety Panel (EHSP)
Sep 2019
Publication
Inaki Azkarate,
Marco Carcassi,
Francesco Dolci,
Alberto Garcia-Hombrados,
Stuart J. Hawksworth,
Thomas Jordan,
Georg W. Mair,
Daniele Melideo,
Vladimir V. Molkov,
Pietro Moretto,
Ernst Arndt Reinecke,
Pratap Sathiah,
Ulrich Schmidtchen,
Trygve Skjold,
Etienne Studer,
Tom Van Esbroeck,
Elena Vyazmina,
Jennifer Xiaoling Wen,
Jianjun Xiao and
Joachim Grüne
The FCH 2 JU launched the European Hydrogen Safety Panel (EHSP) initiative in 2017. The mission of the EHSP is to assist the FCH 2 JU both at programme and at project level in assuring that hydrogen safety is adequately managed and to promote and disseminate H2 safety culture within and outside of the FCH 2 JU programme. The EHSP is composed of a multidisciplinary pool of safety experts grouped in ad-hoc working groups (task forces) according to the tasks to be performed and to expertise. The scope and activities of the EHSP are structured around four main areas:
TF.1. Support at project level The EHSP task under this category includes the development of measures to avoid any accident by integrating safety learnings expertise and planning into FCH 2 JU funded projects and by ensuring that all projects address and incorporate the state-of-the-art in hydrogen safety appropriately. To this end a Safety guidance document for hydrogen and fuel cell projects will be produced.
TF.2. Support at programme level Activities under this category include answering questions related to hydrogen safety in an independent coordinated and consolidated way via hotline-support or if necessary via physical presence of safety representative at the FCH 2 JU. It could also include a short introduction to hydrogen safety and the provision of specific guidelines for the handling storage and use of hydrogen in the public domain. As a start a clear strategy on this should be developed and therefore related M ulti-annual work plan 2018-2020.
TF.3. Data collection and assessment The EHSP tasks include the analysis of existing events already introduced in the European Hydrogen Safety Reference Database (HIAD) and of new information from relevant mishaps incidents or accidents. The EHSP should therefore derive lessons learned and provide together with the involved parties further general recommendations to all stakeholders based on these data. For 2018 the following deliverables should be produced: methodology to collect inputs from projects and to provide lessons learned and guidelines assessment and lessons learned from HIAD and a report on research progress in the field of hydrogen safety.
TF.4. Public outreach Framed within the context of the intended broad information exchange the EHSP tasks under this category include the development of a regularly updated webpage hosted on the FCH 2 JU website.
Fire Tests Carried Out in FCH JU FIRECOMP Project, Recommendations and Application to Safety of Gas Storage Systems
Sep 2017
Publication
In the event of a fire composite pressure vessels behave very differently from metallic ones: the material is degraded potentially leading to a burst without significant pressure increase. Hence such objects are when necessary protected from fire by using thermally-activated devices (TPRD) and standards require testing cylinder and TPRD together. The pre-normative research project FireComp aimed at understanding better the conditions which may lead to burst through testing and simulation and proposed an alternative way of assessing the fire performance of composite cylinders. This approach is currently used by Air Liquide for the safety of composite bundles carrying large amounts of hydrogen gas.
The Hydrogen Trapping Ability of TiC and V4C3 by Thermal Desorption Spectroscopy and Permeation Experiments
Dec 2018
Publication
Hydrogen (H) presence in metals is detrimental as unpredictable failure might occur. Recent developments in material’s design indicated that microstructural features such as precipitates play an essential role in potentially increasing the resistance against H induced failure. This work evaluates the H trapping characteristics for TiC and V4C3 by thermal desorption spectroscopy and permeation experiments. Two microstructural conditions are compared: as quenched vs. quenched and tempered in which the carbides are introduced. The tempered induced precipitates are able to deeply trap a significant amount of H which decreases the H diffusivity in the materials and removes some of the detrimental H from the microstructure. For microstructural design purposes it is important to know the position of H. Here H is demonstrated to be trapped at the carbide/matrix interface by modifying the tempering treatment.
The Effect of Cold Rolling on the Hydrogen Susceptibility of 5083 Aluminium Alloy
Oct 2017
Publication
This work focuses in investigating the effect of cold deformation on the cathodic hydrogen charging of 5083 aluminum alloy. The aluminium alloy was submitted to a cold rolling process until the average thickness of the specimens was reduced by 7% and 15% respectively. A study of the structure microhardness and tensile properties of the hydrogen charged aluminium specimens with and without cold rolling indicated that the cold deformation process led to an increase of hydrogen susceptibility of this aluminum alloy.
No more items...