The Hydrogen Economy: Engineering Solutions for Industrial Decarbonization

Assessing Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Electrolysis in Large-Scale Green Hydrogen Production

Abstract

As global industrial sectors seek viable alternatives to fossil fuels, green hydrogen has emerged as a cornerstone of the sustainable energy transition. This article evaluates the technical and economic performance of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources in the Canadian context. The research examines the engineering challenges associated with electrolyzer scaling, hydrogen storage, and transport infrastructure. Utilizing a lifecycle assessment (LCA) framework, the study compares the carbon intensity of green hydrogen against traditional "grey" and "blue" hydrogen modalities. This final contribution to CJSTI Vol. 1 provides a strategic technical roadmap for integrating hydrogen technologies into Canada’s heavy industrial sectors, such as steel and chemical manufacturing.