Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, and is found in water, natural gas and many other sources. It bonds with other elements to form commonly known molecules such as water, methane (natural gas) and methanol. Hydrogen is “produced” by unlocking the chemical bonds in the molecules that form these substances. The water molecule (H20), for example, consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to an oxygen atom.

One way to produce hydrogen is to break water apart through electrolysis. In this process, electricity is used in the presence of a catalyst to separate the hydrogen from the oxygen in the water. When using renewable electricity it can be a zero CO2 emission process.  Another approach is to liberate the hydrogen by "reforming" fuels such as natural gas or methanol. Even when using natural gas, well-to-wheel CO2 emissions are about half of that from a gasoline vehicle.

Currently, our members are exploring many options for producing hydrogen. By making hydrogen from many difference sources, every region of the world can produce its own fuel, which is good for the environment and the local economy.

For more information visit the Hydrogen Pathways page.