Anwesh Blogs

In today’s world, pollution and climate change are major problems. One big cause is the release of pollutants and greenhouse gases from cars, trucks, buses, and planes that burn fuel and release harmful gases into the air.

We already have electric vehicles (EVs) to help fix this. But there’s another new and upcoming clean energy option, which is hydrogen.

Hydrogen can be used as a fuel for vehicles typically via fuel cells that convert hydrogen into electricity, emitting only water vapor and heat. It’s different from electric batteries as fuel cells generate electricity onboard, rather than store electricity that was generated elsewhere.

There are different types of hydrogen (just like green, blue, grey hydrogen) depending on how it’s produced. Green hydrogen is made via electrolysis using renewable energy. Low carbon/blue hydrogen is made from natural gas or other sources but with carbon capture, or other ways to reduce carbon emissions. Grey hydrogen, etc. are more polluting.

Green hydrogen would be the most optimal form of hydrogen to be used as fuels as it is the cleanest while grey hydrogen is more polluting.

Advantages of hydrogen as fuel

1. Zero Pollution

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles don’t produce any air pollution. They only release water vapour.

2. Quick Refueling

It takes just a few minutes to fill up a hydrogen car or bus, which is much faster than charging most electric cars.

3. Long Driving Range

Hydrogen vehicles can go a long distance before needing to refuel, similar to gas or diesel cars.

4. Abundance of hydrogen

Hydrogen is an element which is abundant on our planet.

5. Low Noise Pollution

Hydrogen powered vehicles produce much less noise as compared to petrol or diesel vehicles.

Disadvantages of Hydrogen

1. It’s Expensive

Right now, making green hydrogen costs a lot. And since we don’t have the technology to make its production cheaper, hydrogen as fuel isn’t very popular.

2. Lack of Fuel Stations

There are very few hydrogen refueling stations currently. This a challenge as this reduces access to use hydrogen powered vehicles.

3. Storage and Safety

Hydrogen is very light and needs special tanks to store it safely. This can be tricky and expensive.

What’s Happening Now?

Countries around the world are starting to invest in hydrogen:

1. Buses and trucks are being tested with hydrogen fuel.

2. New technology is making fuel cells better and cheaper.

3. Governments are creating plans to grow hydrogen energy

What Needs to Happen Next?

To make hydrogen more popular and accessible, we need:

• More green hydrogen production.

• Cheaper and better technology.

• Many new hydrogen fuel stations.

• Support from governments and industries.

• Safety rules and public awareness.

Conclusion

Hydrogen isn’t the only answer ,but it’s an important part of the solution.While electric cars are great for cities and short trips, hydrogen is better for long-distance travel and heavy vehicles. If we invest now, hydrogen can help create a future with clean air, less pollution, and a healthier planet for everyone.