Green hydrogen is a type of hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydropower. It is one of the most promising fuels for the future, due to its sustainability and versatility. To understand more about the benefits of green hydrogen, let’s take a look at the production process of this clean energy source.
Production
Green hydrogen generation is a carbon-free process. Production occurs through electrolysis, where an electrolyzer splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen atoms. This process requires an electrical current to pass through the water molecules. Renewable sources, like wind, solar, and hydropower offer the electricity necessary for this process.
Production occurs through electrolysis, where an electrolyzer splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen atoms — a process explained in more detail through hydrogen electrolysis technology.
When it comes to green hydrogen generation, there are two types of electrolyzers currently in use. Proton Exchange Membranes (PEM) and Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyzers. PEM electrolyzers work by passing an electric current through the membrane that separates hydrogen and oxygen ions. The hydrogen ions travel through membrane, where they combine with electrons to form hydrogen gas. The oxygen ions combine with electrons to form oxygen gas. AEM electrolyzers work in a similar fashion. AEM uses a unique membrane that allows negatively charged hydroxide ions to pass through while blocking positively charged ions.