[Note: The statements below are intended solely to stimulate discussion among the Expert community, and do not represent the position of OurEnergyPolicy.org. Text in italics indicates clarification or expansion.]
An analysis of the current status shows that hydrogen powered cars, generation infrastructure and delivery infrastructure; all at competitive prices to other solutions are 20 years away under the best of circumstances. In any case, an affordable and efficient electric battery car will be available at least 10 years ahead of that and it will not require infrastructure changes. The hydrogen (fuel cell) car simply lost the race to the market. We are not arguing here the pros and cons of hydrogen propulsion. We are simply stating a fact. The race has been won by the electric battery car and that is the only thing that matters.
Any government programs supporting/preferring hydrogen should be eliminated (see also research priorities). There is no reason for the government to prefer a sure loser.
Since currently the energy balance and global warming effects of generating hydrogen are extremely negative, hydrogen vehicles should not receive any subsidy. We are many years away from a positive energy balance. We should invest our dollars where it is critical.
Given were we are right now, the only transportation market where hydrogen might be competitive is long range trucking. Bio-diesel is by far a better alternative at this point. Train use should rise as well. Let the market forces compete – there is absolutely no reason for preferential treatment of hydrogen.
By Roger Arnold Systems Architect, Silverthorn Engineering
That is an extreme position, and frames the issue of hydrogen research as being only about fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). That is incorrect.
It is quite true that FCEVs are grossly expensive and impractical compared to battery and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and research specifically focused on their development does not warrant continued federal subsidies. However, hydrogen is a vitally important industrial chemical, and will become even more important as we move away from imported oil.
Hydrogen is needed in industrial quantities for refining and desulferizing heavy and sour crude, and for boosting the yield for production of liquid fuels from coal and biomass. Large amounts are also needed for production of fertilizers.
Nearly all hydrogen used in the US is produced on-site at the point of use via steam reforming of natural gas. The process releases CO2 to the atmosphere as a waste product. That needs to change.
Production of hydrogen without CO2 emissions is an ideal application for “as available” renewable energy. But to be economically competetive, improvements are needed in the efficiency, service life, and capital cost of electrolysis equipment. Improved methods for hydrogen storage are also needed. Promising research in these areas should be supported.