Capturing the potential profits and jobs offered by a growing hydrogen industry may need as much innovation in regulatory agencies as it does in the research laboratories, according to new research from The University of Texas at Austin. The work highlights the increasing complexity and interconnected nature of energy markets as disparate regulatory agencies push for increased use of clean energy sources.
In the paper, published recently in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, the researchers studied a wind farm in west Texas to find ways wind farm owners can enhance profitability by making hydrogen. They examined various scenarios, including profit points of selling electricity versus hydrogen and storing hydrogen to sell either hydrogen or hydrogen-derived electricity as the markets change.
These decisions are further complicated by what the researchers say are a patchwork of disparate rules and regulations lacking the level of connectivity necessary for success. The researchers aim to provide insights to help industry and governments make investment decisions that are beneficial to society and economically sustainable.
Read more at: The University of Texas at Austin
Photo Credit: distelAPPArath via Pixabay