Hydrogen at home: The current and future landscape of green hydrogen in residential settings

Abstract

Green hydrogen and electro-fuels have emerged as strong alternatives for conventional fossil fuels due to the urgent need to transition to sustainable energy sources, especially in cases where direct electrification is not feasible. The global surge in green hydrogen projects signifies a commitment to a sustainable future, utilising hydrogen as an adaptable and environmentally friendly energy carrier. However, economic viability is challenged by varying costs of renewable energy sources. Overcoming barriers such as expanding electrolysis capacity, regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and establishing infrastructure are critical for advancing the green hydrogen economy. This paper conducts a critical analysis of recent literature and institutional reports to gain a deeper understanding of the current state of play. Through comprehensive analysis and comparison, the paper offers a detailed overview of green hydrogen production techniques, storage technologies, transportation infrastructures, and real-world implementations. It presents a detailed analysis of the current landscape of global green hydrogen production, offering insights into the specific technical procedures governing its transmission through advanced distribution systems. This research paper also explores the economic feasibility of implementing green hydrogen in residential settings. The key findings highlight various options for implementing green hydrogen setups in homes. The authors recommend a synergistic approach involving solar photovoltaic systems, electrolysers, and hydrogen fuel cells as a progressive step towards achieving complete self-sufficiency using renewable energy sources. The study envisions that green hydrogen generated at homes could potentially be harnessed for commercial purposes. While acknowledging the higher initial investment due to the higher cost of fuel cells and electrolysers, the paper highlights the long-term viability and sustainability of such integrated systems. In its conclusion, the paper illuminates the transformative potential of green hydrogen in residential applications, shedding light on its manifold benefits in shaping a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.