Hydrogen as an energy carrier : A literature study on mass transportation

Sammanfattning: In the current Master's Thesis, the use of hydrogen as a fuel in transportation, the state of hydrogen in the European Union as well as the rest of the European countries' future for adopting hydrogen in the mass transportation sector, were researched. Initially, the thesis provides an overview of hydrogen classification, production methods, storage methods, and transportation methods. Furthermore, it discusses the environmental impact of hydrogen production and use, assesses the technology readiness level, the cost of hydrogen technologies and their environmental footprint. Finally, it examines the energy use, the environmental footprint, reviews the policies and regulations governing the use of hydrogen of the transportation sector in Europe.The method used is literature review and found that hydrogen has some potential to decarbonize the transportation sector in Europe after 2035. However, there are multiple challenges that need to be addressed, such as the high cost of hydrogen production and the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen refueling. Steps to address these challenges are being taken, such as investing in research and development of hydrogen technologies and providing financial incentives for the deployment of hydrogen infrastructure.The electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources was found to be the least efficient and most expensive production technique, but this is expected to change in the future. In the meantime, programs have been launched in Europe to increase hydrogen adoption in the transport sector, through measures such as the development of new gas stations and pipeline networks. Since there is currently no regulatory framework specifically for hydrogen, it is governed by regulations that apply to hazardous liquids and gases or alternative fuels.However, further research and development is needed to make hydrogen more cost-competitive and to build the necessary infrastructure. With the right policies and investments, hydrogen can play a major role in decarbonizing the transportation sector in the EU.