In the heart of bustling Madrid, the echoes of a green energy revolution are resonating. The promise of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source is compelling, with the potential to reshape the future of green energy. But the reality is more complex as Iberdrola, one of the top energy companies globally, weighs in on the conversation.
Unveiling the truths behind the glamour, Armando Martinez Martinez, the diligent CEO of Iberdrola, lays bare the harsh realities. He explains that although hydrogen has been widely used in industries for years, it’s still an elusive dream when it comes to a common energy source for the average customer, especially in passenger vehicles.
Breaking down the specifics, Mr. Martinez reveals an astonishing fact: nearly 90% of the hydrogen used by consumers is derived from conventional, non-renewable practices. The reason for this, he explains, stems from the simple concept determined by most economies – cost-effectiveness.
Transitioning to green hydrogen is indeed a noble and sustainable move, however, it seems that customers are hesitant to shoulder the additional cost. In this regard, the role of government comes into play. Mr. Martinez points out how subsidies can act as a beneficial bridge over the cost discrepancy, which could further promote the use of green hydrogen.
From his perspective, Mr. Martinez appreciates the efforts of the United States, a leading light in extending subsidies to the hydrogen production sector, making sustainable practices more appealing to businesses.
The discussion took place during a visit by PTT Plc’s executives, Thai energy conglomerate, to Madrid on an exploratory mission to understand future energy tendencies, hydrogens’ prospects included.
Touching on one of the key practical challenges in this hydrogen debate, Mr. Martinez points out the difficulty of transporting hydrogen efficiently. Despite years of industry engagement, there is still no universally accepted method of hydrogen carriage, beyond the archaic “bottling” model, that is.
The act of storing the hydrogen gas in reinforced cylinders designed for high-pressure adds to the complexity of the transportation process. Let alone the fact that conventional gas pipelines are not compatible with hydrogen because of the risk of degradation. The option of utilizing ammonia as a carrier was also quashed by Mr. Martinez, citing increased complexity and financial implications.
An eye-opening aspect of the conversation revolved around the likely unsuitability of using hydrogen for private vehicles. It seems that the current charging infrastructure and user habits don’t complement hydrogen’s properties well. Mr. Martinez then suggests a shift in perspective: perhaps hydrogen is better suited to larger, heavier means of transport, where beefier energy storehouses are needed.
Throughout the conversation, Mr. Martinez consistently underlines the key role of government subsidies in granting economic feasibility to hydrogen energy. Not forgetting to draw our attention back to the hurdles of efficient hydrogen transport, he invites us all to consider the future of this potential green energy source more thoughtfully.
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