What Kind of Energy is Hydrogen?
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What Kind of Energy is Hydrogen?
【Basic】 - Governmental Projects for the Creation of a Hydrogen Society【Trends】
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Climate Change Projects Office,Climate Change Policy Division,Global Environment Bureau,Ministry of the Environment
WHAT IS HYDROGEN?
Hydrogen gas is the lightest gas on Earth and is made up of two hydrogen (H) atoms, expressed with the molecular formula H2. Hydrogen atoms form bonds with various elements and are found in a variety of chemical compounds, such as water and fossil fuels. This characteristic makes it possible to produce H2 from various resources. For example, hydrogen can be produced by methods such as water electrolysis (H2O) to generate hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) gas.
THE BENEFITS OF HYDROGEN AS AN ENERGY SOURCE
Hydrogen is being used as an energy source to break free from today's carbon-based society, with initiatives underway both in Japan and other countries. Moreover, hydrogen fuel has the following advantages.
1.Environmentally Friendly
Since hydrogen fuel does not emit CO2 when used to generate electricity,it can reduce impact on the environment. We expect that hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources will further reduce CO2 emissions.
2.Revitalization of Local Economies
Hydrogen fuel produced from locally-generated energy sources and used within the same area will increase local business opportunities, leading to local revitalization.
3.Helpful in Emergencies
Stockpiling hydrogen fuel will allow fuel cells to supply energy in times of eme rgency such as natural disasters,when access to conventional power sources is severed.
4.Supplies Both Electricity and Heat
Hydrogen fuel cells generate not only electricity, but also heat, enabling the effective use of energy.
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Contact Information
Climate Change Projects Office,Climate Change Policy Division,Global Environment Bureau,Ministry of the Environment