Beyond the Colours of Hydrogen: Opportunities for Process Systems Engineering in Hydrogen Economy

Abstract

In the midst of a climate crisis, alternative and low-carbon energy resources must be put to scale in order to achieve carbon emission reductions in the coming decades. In this respect, hydrogen has gained attention as an alternative energy carrier. Hydrogen can be produced from methods that are commonly classified by a range of colours. However, each hydrogen source has its own challenges in terms of energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability. This perspective offers insights about the critical role that Process Systems Engineering (PSE) will play in addressing these key challenges. We also present suggestions on possible future PSE studies in the area of the hydrogen economy.