The role of green hydrogen in the transition to renewable energy: production, marketing strategies and future prospects

Green hydrogen can speed up the shift to low-carbon energy systems. It delivers deep decarbonization for industries that are difficult to cut emissions, provides viable solutions for long-duration energy storage, and facilitates higher penetration of renewable energy.

In a study published in the Journal of Pipeline Science and Engineering, an international team of researchers compared major electrolysis technologies-alkaline, proton exchange membrane, and solid oxide electrolyzers-in terms of operating conditions, efficiency, maturity, and suitability for renewable energy integration. They also examined hydrogen storage and transport options, global market trends, trade routes, exporters and importers, and cost trajectories up to 2050.

The study delivers an innovative contribution by unifying technical characteristics, cost variations, market development rules and policy mechanisms into one unified analytical system.

“As the most mature electrolytic technology, alkaline electrolysis boasts the longest service life alongside decent energy conversion efficiency,” says co-corresponding author Mohamed Salem. “Membrane-based electrolysis stands out as a promising technical route, featuring high efficiency, extended service cycles, and moderate voltage demand relative to the other two categories.”

In contrast, solid oxide electrolysis achieves minimal power consumption by capturing waste heat released from industrial operations. “Its drawbacks, however, lie in its ultra-high operating temperature requirements; the low technological readiness level restricts both its service lifespan and overall operational performance,” adds Salem.

The team’s findings revealed that three driving factors—the falling price of renewable power, scaled manufacturing of electrolysis equipment, and targeted policy incentives—jointly boost the market competitiveness of green hydrogen to a notable extent.

“Nevertheless, insufficient infrastructure, inconsistent regulatory standards across regions, and uncertain investment hazards still constitute major obstacles to widespread green hydrogen rollout,” notes Salem.

By exploring the interconnections among these interrelated perspectives, this review offers practical references for government regulators, industrial participants and scholars, facilitating strategic planning to advance rapid, sustainable green hydrogen adoption amid worldwide energy transformation.