Cost effective integration of hydrogen in energy systems with CO2 constraints

Abstract The integration of hydrogen in national energy systems is illustrated in four extreme scenarios, reflecting four technological mainstreams (energy conservation, renewables, nuclear and CO2 removal) to reduce C emissions. Hydrogen is cost-effective in all scenarios with higher CO2 reduction targets. Hydrogen would be produced from fossil fuels, or from water and electricity or heat, depending upon the scenario. Hydrogen would be used in the residential and commercial sectors and for transport vehicles, industry, and electricity generation in fuel cells. At severe (50–70%) CO2 reduction targets, hydrogen would cost-effectively supply more than half of the total useful energy demands in three out of four scenarios. The marginal emission reduction costs in the CO2 removal scenario at severe CO2 reduction targets are DFL 200/tCO2 (ca $ 100/t). In the nuclear, renewable and energy conservation scenarios these costs are much higher. Whilst the fossil fuel scenario would be less expensive than the other scenarios, the possibility of CO2 storage in depleted gas reservoirs is a conditio sine qua non.