What GAO Found Hydrogen energy technologies offer long-duration energy storage, increased transportation efficiencies, quiet operation, reduced air polluting emissions, and potentially broad availability. For example, hydrogen fuel cell power generation technologies could provide quiet, clean backup power to data centers and other large-scale operations during power outages. These generation technologies could increase overall electricity grid security by providing long-duration energy storage. Currently, hydrogen fuel cells provide about 0.03 percent of utility-scale electricity generation. Current and potential hydrogen energy technologies However, hydrogen energy technologies have not been widely adopted because of hydrogen’s relatively high cost and limited market. Additionally, GAO identified four technical challenges to widespread use: Efficiency and safety. Hydrogen’s physical characteristics make it particulary susceptible to efficiency losses, leakage, and emergency response risks. Infrastructure. Transport and storage infrastructure is generally lacking or confined to certain regions of the U.S., and existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure might not be suitable for hydrogen. Geography. Geographic constraints can increase transport and storage costs for hydrogen users. Regulation and permitting. Unclear federal jurisdiction and lack of standards can slow down projects. Since the 1950s, the U.S. has made periodic investments in hydrogen as a potential power source and transportation fuel. Relevant past legislation…
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Hydrogen Energy: Technologies Offer Potential Benefits but Face Challenges to Widespread Use
Source: US GAO Reports — US Government, Public Domain