Hydrogen stands out for being a clean fuel since its combustion produces only water as a by-product.
This makes it an important option in the transition to a greener, low-carbon economy, as opposed to fossil fuels.
What is a hydrogen turbine?
It is a mechanism that transforms the chemical energy of hydrogen into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy by means of a generator. Its operation is based on the combustion of hydrogen with oxygen, which produces water vapor at high pressure and temperature. This steam powers the turbine blades, generating electricity.
Hydrogen as an energy source
The use of hydrogen as an energy source has been around for a long time, but in recent decades, its application in turbines to generate electricity has gained momentum. This is due to the need to find sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
In the initial stages, the focus was on investigating and understanding the properties of hydrogen, as well as the challenges associated with its handling and combustion. However, in the 21st century, in the face of global pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy sustainability, research and development in this field intensified.
The goal was to improve the efficiency of hydrogen turbines, manage nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, and adapt existing infrastructure. Through pilot projects and commercial demonstrations, the viability of this technology began to be demonstrated, both in environmental terms and in its integration into the power grid and its ability to provide reliable and flexible energy.
Today, hydrogen turbines are at the forefront of the energy transition, taking advantage of innovations in green hydrogen production and technological advances in storage and distribution. As this technology continues to advance and costs decline due to economies of scale, hydrogen turbines are expected to play an increasingly crucial role in global efforts to achieve a sustainable, low-carbon energy future.
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Source: Turbinas de hidrógeno: qué son, para qué sirven y por qué son clave para el medio ambiente
