Hydrogen Storage Technologies: An Overview and Austria’s Strategic Goals

Abstract

Hydrogen storage technologies are essential for the development of sustainable energy systems. This work presents a comprehensive overview of the various methods of hydrogen storage, including compressed gas, liquid hydrogen, cryo-compressed hydrogen, solid state storage, physisorption, metal hydrides, chemical hydrides and underground hydrogen storage. Each technology is evaluated based on performance metrics such as storage capacity, energy density, cost, security and efficiency. The analysis highlights the challenges and benefits associated with each method, particularly in terms of scalability, infrastructure requirements, and the need for security measures. In the second part of this work, we focus on Austria’s specific energy consumption and examine how hydrogen technologies can be integrated into the country’s existing energy framework. By examining Austria’s energy demand and the growing transition to renewable energy sources, we evaluate the potential of hydrogen as a storage solution to stabilize the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Different scenarios are considered that analyze the feasibility of adopting technologies such as cryo-compressed hydrogen and underground hydrogen storage to meet Austria’s energy needs. This study Austria’s seasonal energy demand is addressed by evaluating hydrogen storage technologies as a means to balance renewable energy availability throughout the year. The research explores the potential of underground, compressed, cryogenic, and material-based hydrogen storage solutions to supply energy during high-demand winter months. By assessing these technologies, this study highlights how a diversified hydrogen storage approach can support Austria’s carbon-neutrality targets by ensuring renewable energy availability aligns with seasonal demand fluctuations.

Date of Award	2024
Original language	English
Supervisor	Dominik Pöttinger (Supervisor)