Understanding the role of electrolysis in eFuel production
Electrolysis is a key technology in the sustainable energy landscape. It plays an essential role in the green transition by enabling the production of green hydrogen, which is fundamental for the synthesis of eFuels like eMethanol. In hard-to-abate sectors where electrification alone may not be feasible, such as shipping, aviation, steel manufacturing, cement production, and chemical processing, it provides a viable pathway to decarbonization.
How electrolysis works
Electrolysis is a chemical process that uses electricity to split substances into their basic components.
Here's how it works:
Electrolytic cell: The setup consists of two electrodes (an anode and a cathode) submerged in an electrolyte - a solution that conducts electricity by utilizing charged particles called ions
Electric current: When an electric current is passed through the electrolytic cell, it causes a chemical reaction.
Ion movement: Positively charged ions move towards the cathode, and negatively charged ions move towards the anode.
Chemical reaction: This movement of ions leads to reactions at the electrodes, breaking down the electrolyte into its constituent elements.
In the case of water electrolysis, electric current is used to split water (H₂O) into oxygen (O₂) and hydrogen (H₂).
When the electricity used for the water electrolysis comes from renewable sources like solar, wind or hydropower, the hydrogen produced is considered "green" or "renewable”, as it does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Water electrolysis: Generating green hydrogen for sustainable eMethanol production
eFuel facilities developed by Liquid Wind use water electrolysis powered by renewable energy to produce green hydrogen.
The electrolyser splits water (H₂O) into oxygen (O₂) and hydrogen (H₂). Hydrogen is used as the primary feedstock for eMethanol production, while oxygen is formed as a by-product and can either be released into the atmosphere or captured and supplied to local industry.
Green hydrogen’s importance for eMethanol production
Green hydrogen is referred to as "green" due to its sustainable production method, using renewable energy for the water electrolysis. It is an important raw material in the production of eMethanol, with many different advantages.
Firstly, the process eliminates reliance on fossil fuels, thereby significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike conventional methanol production, which often relies on carbon-intensive processes such as steam reforming of natural gas, eMethanol production with green hydrogen results in a closed-loop system where carbon dioxide emissions are drastically minimized or even eliminated.
Moreover, its high energy density and compatibility with existing infrastructure makes it a viable option for decarbonizing sectors where electrification alone may be challenging, such as heavy-duty transportation and industrial processes.
Green hydrogen also plays a crucial role in eMethanol production, enhancing energy security and stability. By using local renewable energy sources to produce hydrogen, countries can reduce their dependence on imported fossil fuels, leading to greater energy independence and resilience. This comprehensive approach addresses environmental concerns while promoting a robust and sustainable energy landscape.
