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Energy giants compete to study hydrogen energy applications
Hydrogen, as a by-product of certain chemical and refining processes, is relatively low-cost, but large-scale production still demands significant energy and infrastructure. Despite its potential, challenges remain in its use as a fuel, which means widespread adoption is likely to take another decade. While many experts agree with this timeline, major oil companies like BP and Shell are already making strategic moves to secure their positions in the hydrogen market.
Shell has been actively investing in the hydrogen economy for over a decade, launching pilot projects that include hydrogen refueling stations to support the commercial use of hydrogen-powered vehicles. BP, too, is ramping up efforts in hydrogen production, distribution, and sales, with several validation projects underway, such as a hydrogen station in London supplying fuel to hydrogen cars.
Gas companies are also getting involved. Air Products sees a huge future in alternative fuels, especially hydrogen, and plans to open several hydrogen stations in 2007. Air Liquide is engaged in hydrogen production, fuel cell development, and bio-based fuel manufacturing, aiming to bring hydrogen energy systems to the automotive sector. BOC is expanding its hydrogen supply capabilities through a $3.8 million project with the U.S. Department of Energy, while Praxair collaborates with BP to supply hydrogen in California.
At the University of Michigan, researchers have developed lightweight, durable polymers that could revolutionize hydrogen storage, making it more efficient and cost-effective for vehicles. Meanwhile, Dow Chemicals is exploring ways to use hydrogen from its Texas facility as fuel for fuel cells, driven by rising natural gas prices.
In Japan, researchers at the Tokyo Institute of Technology have created a groundbreaking process that produces pure hydrogen from cellulose without emitting CO or COâ‚‚. This method decomposes cellulose into organic acids, which are then converted into hydrogen and sodium carbonate with nearly 100% efficiency. The technology can also be applied to other biomass materials, and Japanese scientists are now seeking industrial partners to commercialize it.
Expander Energy in Canada has acquired the Carbo-V process from Germany, using it to generate syngas from biomass. The process can produce about 10,000 Nm³/h of hydrogen from 10 tons of biomass, with a $50 million plant set to open in Alberta in 2008.
BP and GE are planning to launch up to 15 industrial hydrogen power generation projects over the next decade, focusing on the efficiency and economic viability of hydrogen for large-scale energy use. They’re also building a 475MW hydrogen-fired power plant in the U.S., scheduled for completion in 2010. These initiatives signal a growing commitment to hydrogen as a clean energy solution.