Problems and prospects of hydrogen production and usage

More strict environmental performance requirements for fuels and power plants in recent decades have led to a large-scale search for new, cost-effective, environmentally friendly energy carriers. The increased demand for energy carriers has heightened interest in alternative sources of fuels including hydrogen to be used for electricity generation and in transportation business. The article discusses and analyzes the issues of production and use of hydrogen, which is currently considered a priority and promising energy carrier in many regions of the world. The main ways and technologies for producing hydrogen, its most important physical and chemical properties, operational and environmental characteristics are considered. It can be assumed that hydrogen and hydrogen energy may gain an impetus for wide commercialization under favorable economic conditions and compete with fossil fuels in certain regions of Europe and the world. The potential benefits from expanding the use of hydrogen and the development of hydrogen economy are seen primarily in healing the environment and enhancing the energy security of a number of regions and countries. It can be expected that future technological advances will promote the mid-term hydrogen competitiveness. Currently, European countries are considering increasing hydrogen production as a way to reduce dependence on Russian oil and gas import, as well as to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Keywords: hydrogen; fuel cell; hydrogen energy