Current state and development trends of hydrogen technologies

Abstract

The article analyzes the current state of research and development in the field of production, storage and use of hydrogen fuel. It was revealed that the most environmentally friendly method is the hydrogen production by electrolysis based on nuclear power. At the same time, in Russia, the development of hydrogen energy is a priority in the energy sector in general and nuclear energy in particular. Specific investment in electrolyzers with a solid polymer membrane is about 3100-2050 $/kW. By 2030, the cost is predicted to be $950/kW and $740/kW for electrolysis with proton-exchange and alkaline electrolyte, respectively. To store hydrogen, research is being carried out mainly on the metal hydride method, as well as gaseous compressed in special high-strength composite tanks under pressure up to 100 MPa and in large-volume underground tanks. The use of hydrogen fuel for power generation is planned mainly on the basis of fuel cells and micro gas turbines. The average cost of a power plant based on solid oxide fuel cells in 2020 amounted to 1720-1430 $/kW. By 2035 and 2050, $960/kW and $770/kW respectively are predicted. A promising area of development in the field of fuel cells is reversible fuel cells.