The cost of green hydrogen storage varies significantly depending on the storage technology used and is generally higher than some traditional energy storage methods, but it can be competitive with certain hydrogen storage options.
Hydrogen Storage Costs
- Pressurized tank storage for hydrogen is relatively expensive, often cited at around $400 to $600 per kilogram of hydrogen stored, which translates roughly to a levelized cost of about $0.16 to $0.32 per kg-H2, depending on utilization rates. This method tends to be more costly for longer-duration storage compared to underground options.
- Liquid hydrogen storage (LH2) is generally cheaper on a daily basis than pressurized storage and can be among the least expensive hydrogen storage options for heavy-duty applications, with costs in the range of $5–22 per kWh stored energy, making LH2 storage less costly than high-pressure compressed hydrogen tanks.
- Underground storage options, such as salt caverns, are the cheapest hydrogen storage method when available and suitable, especially for longer-term, large-volume storage.
Comparison with Traditional Energy Storage
- Hydrogen storage costs are higher than traditional battery storage costs for equivalent energy applications. For instance, battery storage costs for clean baseload power are estimated at $150 to $170 per megawatt-hour electrical (MWhe), and hydrogen-fired power remains more costly than battery storage currently.
Green Hydrogen Production Costs Context
- Green hydrogen production (via electrolysis powered by renewables) remains expensive, with costs typically ranging from €3 to €7 per kilogram (approximately $3–7/kg) depending on renewable energy prices and region.
- Storage costs add to this production cost, with storage contributing between $0.38 to $0.57 per kg in some systems depending on the carrier and scenario.
Summary
| Storage Type | Approximate Cost per kg-H2 Stored | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pressurized Tank | $0.16–$0.32/kg (levelized cost) | Higher cost for short-term and small scale |
| Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) | $0.38–$0.57/kg storage + system costs | Can be least expensive for heavy-duty use |
| Underground Salt Cavern | Lowest cost for large, long-term storage | Not always available/practical |
| Battery Storage (electric energy) | $150–$170/MWhe (equivalent basis) | Generally cheaper than hydrogen storage |
Overall, hydrogen storage—especially green hydrogen storage—remains more costly than traditional battery storage per unit energy but offers advantages in long-duration and large-scale storage scenarios where batteries become less economical. The choice of storage method significantly influences cost, with underground storage offering cost advantages but limited by geographic feasibility.
Thus, green hydrogen storage costs are currently higher and more varied than traditional storage methods like batteries but hold strategic value for long-duration, large-scale energy storage needs.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-cost-of-green-hydrogen-storage-compare-to-traditional-methods/
