Electrical Grid Requirements for Sustainable Green Hydrogen Use in Aviation

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Given its strong potential to dramatically reduce the environmental impact of aviation, the use of hydrogen as an energy carrier for aircraft has garnered significant attention. Liquefied hydrogen represents one of the only clean-energy fuels capable of meeting the specific energy characteristics compatible with air transportation systems. While hydrogen aircraft are often viewed as zero-emission vehicles, the life cycle associated with liquid hydrogen production pathways can produce significant greenhouse gas emissions. With electrolyzed hydrogen viewed as a cornerstone to building a sustainable aviation future, it is important that the dependencies of the energy production life cycle on the source of electricity are appropriately captured. In this study, the life cycle carbon dioxide equivalent emissions of liquid hydrogen production are modeled using a variety of future US grid forecasts. If electrolyzed hydrogen were to be produced using a 2020 US electrical grid mix, its use would be associated with approximately 2.5× the global warming potential as direct use of fossil-derived jet fuels. If only incremental increases in renewable energy resources are introduced across the grid, electrolytic hydrogen will not become an environmentally sustainable solution. However, the development of a fully renewable electrical grid in the US by 2035 is technically and socially viable, and if realized electrolyzed hydrogen can serve as a compelling zero-emissions solution for aviation. The impacts of the various grid scenarios on quantitative life cycle environmental impact, land required, and water use are considered for future market scenarios under the context of the forecast energy requirements for aircraft operations at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2023
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA
ISBN (Print)9781624107047
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
EventAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2023 - San Diego, United States
Duration: Jun 12 2023Jun 16 2023

Publication series

NameAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2023

Conference

ConferenceAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego
Period6/12/236/16/23

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Nuclear Energy and Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering

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