A techno-economic evaluation and SWOT analysis of various hydrogen energy carriers: Production to distribution
Laveet Kumar, Ahmad K. Sleiti, Wahib A. Al‐Ammari
Abstract
The transition from fossil fuel dependency to low-carbon pathways is dependent on efficient energy transportation methods. Hydrogen (H 2 ) stands as a key player in achieving carbon-neutral targets by 2050. However, large-scale H 2 transport presents technological and economic challenges. This study provides a techno-economic evaluation (TEE) and SWOT analysis of hydrogen energy carriers (HECs) for export from natural gas-rich countries, comparing four different pathways: liquid hydrogen (LH 2 ), ammonia (NH 3 ), methanol (MeOH), and dimethyl ether (DME). NH 3 emerges as the most cost-effective option, with the lowest specific energy consumption (SEC) of 7.67 kWh/kg-H 2 and a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) at US$4.76/kg-H 2 . SWOT analysis reveals strong infrastructure and regulatory support for NH 3 , while LH 2 is ranked higher on specific factors. Although NH 3 faces safety challenges, it remains favorable for sustainable transportation. However, significant research is needed to ensure the technological and economic feasibility of these pathways for large-scale implementation.