Hydrogen Production and Electrification: Transforming the Chemical Industry for a Sustainable Future

Document Type : Review Paper

Authors

1 Department of Energy System Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran

2 Renewable Energy Research Department, Niroo Research Institute (NRI), Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The transition to sustainable energy systems has placed hydrogen at the center of attention as a clean and versatile energy carrier. This paper reviews recent advancements in hydrogen production technologies, their various applications, and the challenges associated with integrating hydrogen into global energy systems. Currently, hydrogen is mainly produced from fossil fuels, but it holds significant potential to play a transformative role in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The analysis emphasizes the importance of shifting from conventional production methods, such as steam methane reforming (SMR), to low-carbon and renewable approaches like electrified steam methane reforming (E-SMR) or electrolysis powered by renewable sources. Hydrogen’s role in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors, including transportation, the steel industry, and chemical manufacturing, is also highlighted. While the roadmap for global hydrogen integration appears promising, achieving scalability and sustainability will require coherent policies, technological innovation, and strong economic incentives to support the widespread adoption of hydrogen in the global energy transition.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of sustainable Energy Systems
Volume 5, Issue 2
April 2026
Pages 349-366

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