“The energy transition to renewable energies cannot be reached without the intensive use of green hydrogen”, this statement can be heard often, and it should be discussed.
Hydrogen as a direct substitute for natural gas could offer several advantages – part of the existing infrastructure can be used, conversion technologies do not need to be changed and the energy supply is secure. But is this the case? Where will the green hydrogen that is needed come from in future? Will Europe shift from fossil dependencies to hydrogen dependencies as it will not be possible to meet the European demand with production capacities located in Europe? What price will Europe have to pay and is hydrogen the most suitable energy source or will there be competitive alternatives like ammonia, methanol, or dimethyl ether?
These are just a few questions raised that the current issue of “nachhaltige technologien” tries to answer on a scientific basis.
In addition to well-known technologies such as electrolysis, new efficient methods for biogas production, the application of methane pyrolysis or highly innovative technologies such as photocatalytic conversion of wastewater into hydrogen or methanol will be developed in future.
In order to successfully meet the challenges of the energy transition within the given timeframe, the use of all renewable energy sources is essential. It will be crucial to use all available technologies reasonably and efficiently. This is the only way Europe is able to become independent of external energy sources and global crises.