Green hydrogen is seen as the key to a climate-neutral future. But how is it produced and how does it get to where it is needed? In this compact, practical and easy-to-understand article, you will learn about the hydrogen value chain, from production to application.
What is green hydrogen?
Hydrogen is produced via electrolysis – a process in which water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. An important factor for producing green hydrogen is that the electricity used must come from renewable sources.
This is in contrast to, for example:
- Grey hydrogen produced from fossil fuels
- Pink hydrogen, which does not produce CO₂ as it uses nuclear energy, but does produce radioactive waste
- And blue hydrogen, in which CO₂ is separated and stored (carbon capture)
That means electrolysis is the first – and crucial – step in the hydrogen value chain.
From molecule to mobility: the stations of hydrogen
Why automation is key to scaling
Green hydrogen is only competitive if it can be produced and utilised safely, reliably and efficiently. This can be achieved when using automation solutions with valve terminals and modular controllers in combination with real-time diagnostic functions. For example, they can help to:
- Minimise downtimes
- Meet regulatory requirements (ATEX, SIL)
- Reduce system complexity
Festo – your partner along the entire value chain
Festo supports companies along the entire hydrogen value chain with industry-specific automation solutions. With our scalable systems, digital diagnostic functions and certified components, we help to make processes safe and future-proof, whether in electrolysis, gas treatment or mobile applications such as trailer control systems.
The green hydrogen value chain is more than just a topic for the future
It is already a reality right now and its importance will continue to grow. Those who understand the entire chain can make well-informed decisions and integrate suitable solutions at an early stage.
