Hydrogen starts to make sense when we have 200% overproduction of solar/wind energy.
Assuming energy is essentially free Methane synthesis would be a more viable option IMHO.
Assuming energy is essentially free Methane synthesis would be a more viable option IMHO.
Hydrogen pipes will have the same benefits, albeit you will want a wider pipe due to the lower density.
Hydrogen pipelines exist and for the most part work as intended. There are straightforward ways of avoiding the main problems. AFAIK, these are cost effective solutions.
Has that changed? Do we now have some exotic materials that can hold it better than pure lead?
The Mirai can have a low pressure tank, fed from a much larger, higher pressure tank at the fuel station. That tank and the delivery systems for it are separate problems that also have to be solved at scale.
“At scale” is the problem that public policy has to wrestle with. Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you can do it for everybody.
When you solve those n problems we can talk about whether you can solve them at a price point that makes commercial hydrogen viable. Until then we can use it for space ships, which by design spend their entire life outdoors and far away from any structure or worker that isn’t there to directly or indirectly support the fuel delivery system, and is nowhere near civilians.
Wind doesn't stop blowing and it might be argued that it is stronger at night.
Solar peak does not match the consumption peak neither.
So, even if the methane is derived from captured atmospheric carbon, it still wouldn't be carbon neutral.