Generation of Hydrogen at a Gas Distribution Station

Abstract

In 2019 the UN announced a course to achieve carbon neutrality of industries by 2050. In this connection interest in hydron fuel has increased. Hydrogen due to its ecological characteristics is considered to be one of the most promising energy sources. It does not pollute the atmosphere, as the product of its combustion is water; it has a high energy intensity and is also the most abundant element on the planet. Despite the fact that most of the hydrogen is produced by the steam reforming of methane, the most environmentally friendly way to produce hydrogen is the electrolysis of water. However, the problem with this method is the high cost of electricity, which in addition in most cases is a product obtained from the combustion of primary energy sources. A modern gas transmission system can become a secondary source of electricity for hydrogen production, thereby solving the problem of utilizing excess pressure energy at gas distribution stations (GDS). The technological solution for using this energy is the installation of turboexpanders and the electrolysis of water at the GDS in order to generate hydrogen.