Hydrogen Economy drivers

In this chapter, I examine each of these points as well as other potential drivers of a transition to a hydrogen economy. I end with my own scenario for the transition. 

Before embarking on a discussion of hydrogen production and utilization (in later chapters), it is pertinent to consider the forces that drive the present international push for hydrogen energy and why it is that many people view the Hydrogen Economy as the fulfilment of an environmental dream for the longterm future. The four key drivers are ... 

These drivers, which are examined in detail below, are inter-related in a complex fashion in an increasingly complex world. First, however, we should consider briefly the many obstacles that have to be surmounted before a Hydrogen Economy can become a reality. The obstacles fall into a number of different categories, as follows ... 

A hydrogen-based economy could be the ideal scenario for personal transportation. The ultimate goal is a fuel cell car that is competitive in price and performance with the internal combustion vehicle. Some early users will pay a premium for new technology, but most drivers will not pay 20-30% more for similar performance. 

Advanced, fuel-efficient, and sustainable products will incorporate the following characteristics real-time fuel economy information for drivers sensor fusion and lower cost sensors materials, such as shape memory alloys, with a greater range of activation temperatures engineered nanomaterials and composites advanced batteries and infrastructure for refueling/recharging electric and hydrogen vehicles. 

---