Title: Imagining the hydrogen future of 2050

Authors: Patrick Ferro; Hannah Wentz; Samuel Oyen; Mark Viger; Christine Ngan; Chris Frager; Kyle Mulvaney; Susana Lira; Mark Rawson

Addresses: Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA ' Gonzaga University, 502 E Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258, USA

Abstract: The current work is based on several researchers' analyses of world energy requirements in 2050. The work seeks to illustrate the role of hydrogen technologies in meeting future requirements. Forecasts of developments in fuel cells and hydrogen storage technologies are given along with calculations of how technological improvements may lead to an environmentally cleaner and conscientious society. The current study is based on analyses of aspects of the hydrogen and alternative energy technology literature and calculations that are available through open sources. Technological advancements and projected population increases are analysed, and compared to determine to what extent world energy needs may be met. The possibilities of using hydrogen directly to meet a fraction of the world energy needs are briefly analyzed, along with a review of transportation possibilities and the possible effects on the environment. The costs of electrolysis using electricity from photovoltaic sources are also reviewed.

Keywords: hydrogen fuel cells; solar energy; wind turbines; solar power; wind energy; wind power; hydrogen technologies; hydrogen storage; technological improvements; world energy needs; transport; electrolysis; photovoltaics.

DOI: 10.1504/IER.2015.071018

Interdisciplinary Environmental Review, 2015 Vol.16 No.2/3/4, pp.206 - 216

Received: 07 Oct 2014
Accepted: 25 Apr 2015
Published online: 05 Aug 2015 *

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