For cooking , hydrogen could be piped from an outdoor storage tank feeding a catalytic burner that operates like an induction hotplate . For heating , it would be channelled into a hydrogen fuel cell , such as a combined heat and power ( CHP ) system . This is currently being demonstrated at the University of Portsmouth Energy Lab . CHP systems convert natural gas to electricity and heat , but they can also do the same with biogas ( derived from food and farm waste ), as well as hydrogen .
“ Because you are producing your own fuel , using your electrolyser and rainwater , and using a fuel cell to produce heat and electricity , you have a completely independent energy system ,” says Dr Roy .
“ Technologically and financially , it ’ s quite a smart solution . Anybody can make it anywhere and that ’ s why I call it ‘ freedom fuel ’.”
For now , the high cost of fuel cells and electrolysers is a barrier to widespread adoption , but Dr Roy says it ’ s only a matter of time before the technology is more affordable : “ I remember how big and expensive my first mobile phone was ,” he says . “ And solar systems are already cost-effective … there are reports that photovoltaic cells are now cheaper than the aluminium that holds them together .”
For Dr Roy and his colleagues , it all points to positive change underway . As people become more familiar and trusting of the new energy systems , demand will grow , production will increase and technology will consistently improve , he says .
‘ I meet great minds and am part of an amazing research community ’
Sophie Quintin , PhD International Relations
* The coastal areas of England , France , Belgium and the Netherlands , connected by the Channel and the North Sea .
Be empowered to pursue your ambitions . A research degree at Portsmouth shows you ’ re ready to make an impact .
ISSUE 04 / 2022 51