2023-07-05-云道资本-2023中国氢能源产业-氢储运深度研究报告_65页_5mb

Summary of 2023 Research Report on China Hydrogen Energy Industry - Storage & Transportation

Background and Significance

The hydrogen storage and transportation sector serves as the midstream component in the hydrogen energy value chain, connecting production and consumption. It accounts for 30-40% of terminal costs, making it a primary target for cost reduction. Challenges stem from hydrogen's low density (0.089g/L), ease of escape, low liquefaction temperature (-253°C), and stability issues, necessitating advanced storage solutions.

Main Storage and Transportation Methods

• Gaseous Storage and Transport: Dominant in China, involves high-pressure compression and storage in cylinders. It is cost-effective and mature for short distances but suffers from low density and safety risks. Equipment includes hydrogen compressors (e.g., liquid-driven diaphragm types) and high-pressure tanks.

• Liquefied Storage and Transport: Converts hydrogen to liquid for high energy density and efficient long-distance transport. Methods include physical liquefaction (deep cooling) and chemical absorption (e.g., ammonia or methanol). High costs arise from liquefaction energy use and reliance on imported equipment, but domestic progress is underway.

• Solid-state Storage: Utilizes materials like metal hydrides for compact, safe storage. Suitable for fixed applications and small mobile uses, with ongoing research to improve density and reduce costs. Examples include magnesium-based systems from Chinese firms.

Technological Challenges and Domestic Progress

Major hurdles include cost, safety (e.g., hydrogen embrittlement), and efficiency. China is advancing through equipment国产ization, such as hydrogen compressors and liquefaction units. Projects like green ammonia and methanol storage integrate renewable energy, reducing emissions. Domestic companies (e.g., Shanghai Yigong) and research institutions (e.g., Tsinghua University, Inner Mongolia research institutes) are key drivers.

Future Outlook

Short-distance transport relies on gaseous methods due to cost and maturity, while long-distance and large-scale transport shifts to liquefied or solid-state techniques by 2030. Phased development includes initial adoption of high-pressure gas, followed by liquefied and integrated systems (e.g., green hydrogen-ammonia loops). Pipelines may emerge in the long term.

Conclusion

Addressing storage and transportation challenges is vital for lowering hydrogen costs and supporting sustainable energy deployment, with diverse methods co-developing to meet evolving needs.