Executive Summary *
The GeoH2 Industrial Affiliates Program (IAP) conducts research and technology development on geological aspects of the hydrogen economy in three thematic research areas:
- Geological storage of gaseous hydrogen
- Techno-economic and value-chain analysis
- In situ generation and novel concepts
The strategic intent of GeoH2 is to conduct parallel research in these three themes to increase understanding, reduce uncertainty, and inform directions for large-scale hydrogen development. The proposed research activities were prioritized to address strategic needs (i.e. gaps in understanding, key issues) with the constraints of available funding.
The Geological Storage theme (I) includes research on bulk storage of hydrogen gas in porous-media (depleted fields and saline aquifers) and in salt dissolution caverns. Geological storage is subdivided into two "project" groups to ensure that critical research elements could be advanced in parallel. The two "project" groups are: Ia) Reservoir Characterization and Flow Modeling; and Ib) Risk Assessment, Field Testing and Monitoring Design.
In Situ Generation and Novel Concepts theme (II) consists of research activities to address specific questions regarding reactions, reaction products, and flow phenomena associated with hydrogen generated from in situ combustion of depleted oil fields. In situ generation of hydrogen gas from depleted oil fields offers enormous potential for low cost hydrogen generation, and hence, merits exploratory research. The Novel Concepts component of the research program will focus on more fundamental questions and new approaches to dispersion and mixing phenomena of hydrogen in subsurface reservoirs.
The aim of the Techno-economics Value Chain Analysis theme (III) is to develop a complete modeling and analysis framework that describes options of routes to market for hydrogen as a full value chain, and identify commercially viable infrastructure buildout for scaling up the hydrogen sector as a low carbon solution in a transitional energy economy. The intent of this theme is to inform optimal value chains for various end usages and markets with an emphasis on geological storage and infrastructure.
* This is an excerpt from the GeoH2 Industrial Affiliate Program Overview of Proposed Research Activities for 2022-2023. The full document is accessible to Sponsors and Affiliates.
