The energy transition requires a fundamental change in the way we generate, store and use energy. Alongside renewable energies such as wind and solar, hydrogen (H₂) is increasingly seen as a central element of this transformation. But why is hydrogen so crucial for a climate-friendly future? The answer lies in its versatile application potential – particularly in CO₂ savings, as a storage technology and for sector coupling.
CO₂ savings – decarbonization of areas that are difficult to electrify
Many areas of industry and mobility are difficult to electrify directly – such as the steel and chemical industries or heavy goods transport. Here, hydrogen offers a climate-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. If hydrogen is produced from renewable electricity using green electrolysis, its use is virtually CO₂-free.
Exemplary applications:
- Steel production: hydrogen replaces coke as a reducing agent and enables almost emission-free production.
- Industrial heat: In high-temperature processes, hydrogen can substitute fossil fuels such as natural gas.
- Traffic: Fuel cell vehicles only emit water vapor and are a clean solution, especially in heavy traffic or shipping.
In this way, hydrogen can help to save millions of tons of CO₂ emissions per year – especially in sectors where alternatives are lacking.
Storage technology – balancing supply and demand
Renewable energies such as wind and solar are dependent on the weather and do not always generate electricity when it is needed. This is exactly where hydrogen comes into play as an
The stored hydrogen can later be converted back into electricity or used directly in industry, transportation and heating buildings. Hydrogen therefore makes a decisive contribution to security of supply and grid stability – a key building block for a resilient energy system of the future.
Sector coupling – connecting electricity, heat, mobility and industry
One of the biggest challenges of the energy transition is the intelligent linking of the various energy sectors. This is exactly what hydrogen makes possible: it can convert electricity from renewable sources into chemical energy and thus efficiently connect the electricity, heating, transportation and industrial sectors.
Examples of sector coupling with hydrogen:
- Power-to-gas: surplus electricity is converted into hydrogen and fed into the gas grid.
- Hydrogen heating systems: In combination with fuel cells, buildings can be efficiently heated and supplied with electricity.
- Mobility: H₂ filling stations can convert surplus electricity into emission-free fuel for buses, trains and trucks.
This cross-sectoral use makes hydrogen a central link in the energy transition.
Conclusion
Hydrogen is much more than just an alternative energy source – it is a multi-talent that reduces CO₂ emissions, makes energy storable and connects different sectors.
