Work

A techno-economic evaluation and SWOT analysis of various hydrogen energy carriers: Production to distribution

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The transition from fossil fuel dependency to low-carbon pathways is dependent on efficient energy transportation methods. Hydrogen (H2) stands as a key player in achieving carbon-neutral targets by 2050. However, the large-scale transport of H2 poses technological and economic challenges. Research on the techno-economic evaluation (TEE) and SWOT analysis of exporting hydrogen energy carriers (HECs) from natural gas-exporting nations is very limited. Therefore, this research conducts a comprehensive TEE and SWOT analysis of several H2 pathways to foster the economic development of HECs. The study compares four pathways of HECs: liquid hydrogen (LH2), ammonia (NH3), methanol (MeOH), and dimethyl ether (DME) transportation. NH3 emerges as the most cost-effective option, with a significantly lower specific energy consumption (SEC) of 7.67 kWh/kg-H2 compared to LH2 at a capacity of 600 tons/day. Consequently, NH3 exhibits the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen at $4.76/kg-H2 due to lower conditioning and reconditioning costs compared to MeOH and DME. Based on TEE analysis, the NH3 pathway emerges as a best HEC. Similarly, SWOT analysis provides decision-makers with valuable insights of HECs in Qatar and NH3 appears as a best option for sustainable transportation while, LH2 ranked higher for specific factors. MeOH and DME offer advantages over LH2 but face limited opportunities. NH3 is ranked lower in safety ranking, but it is balanced by strong infrastructure and regulatory support, outlining diverse strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats across HEC options. However, significant research efforts are necessary to ensure the technological and economic viability of this approach.

Source: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2025.03.125

Authors: Laveet Kumar, Ahmad K. Sleiti, Wahib A. Al-Ammari

Institution: Qatar University

Language: English

Topic: Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems

Subfield: Energy Engineering and Power Technology

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,730