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description: "How does Hydrogen Energy Work: It produces energy when it reacts with oxygen, which is used to power EVs, reducing carbon emissions."
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# Hydrogen Energy: Working and Uses

By [Olivia Bolt](https://energytheory.com/author/olivia_bolt/)March 4, 20243 Mins Read

![Hydrogen Energy – Working and Uses 2](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Hydrogen-Energy-–-Working-and-Uses-2.webp "Hydrogen Energy: Working and Uses")

Hydrogen is the most abundant and lightest element in the universe but it is rarely found in pure form. It can be synthesized by splitting nearly limitless water molecules with renewable energy, producing electricity through electrolysis. It is an alternative to traditional fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions in various sectors. In this blog, we will learn how hydrogen energy works and its applications.

## **How does Hydrogen Energy Work?**

It is a clean fuel **sourced from nuclear power, natural gas, biomass, and renewable power** like solar and wind. It is generated from hydrogen and/or its compounds, to meet the world’s current and future energy demands in a cost-effective and eco-friendly manner.

Hydrogen fuel technology works by **producing energy when it reacts with oxygen or burns**. It is used to power vehicles, and replace natural gas, thereby reducing carbon emissions. Now, let’s go through its application in detail.

### **Applications of Hydrogen Energy**

![Hydrogen renewable energy storage: how does hydrogen energy work](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/hydrogen-energy-storage.jpg)

Energy generation, storage, distribution, and fueling electric cars are some of the areas where the world is currently experiencing the dawn of hydrogen energy. After learning how it works, let’s see what is hydrogen energy used for.

**1. A Wide Variety of Manufacturing Techniques Rely on Hydrogen**: Industrial uses for hydrogen include petroleum and metals processing, fertilizer, and food processing. To reduce the fuels’ sulfur content, oil refineries use hydrogen.

**2. NASA Uses Hydrogen Fuel Cells for Interplanetary Travel**: In the 1950s, [liquid hydrogen](https://www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/glenn/high-energy-propellants-and-advanced-propulsion-1952-1957/#:~:text=In%20the%20early%201950s%20the,place%20on%20November%2023%2C%201954.) was originally used by NASA **as a rocket fuel**, and by the 1970s, hydrogen fuel cells were being used to power the space shuttle’s electrical systems.

> Cross-reference: [Fuel Cells for Space Science Applications](https://ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/20040010319/downloads/20040010319.pdf)

**3. Electricity is Produced from Hydrogen Fuel Cells**: The combination of hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a fuel cell results in the generation of electrical current. A battery-like electrochemical cell is used to conduct the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, which **results in electricity, water, and a small quantity of heat.**

Portable electronics like laptops, mobile phones, and even military equipment can all be powered by these fuel cells. Power grids, buildings in need of backup, and remote locations without access to power networks can all benefit from electricity generated by large fuel cells.

**4. It can be a Potential Fuel Source for Power Plants**: Several power plants have started using a fuel blend of natural gas and hydrogen in combustion gas turbines. It can be an aspect of using 100% [green hydrogen](https://energytheory.com/what-is-green-hydrogen/) derived from renewable resources.

**5. Fuel Cells can Power Automobiles**: Under the Energy Policy Act of 1992, hydrogen is recognized as a [potential replacement fuel for automobiles](https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/hydrogen/use-of-hydrogen.php). Fuel cells are more efficient than internal combustion engines at using hydrogen, however, burning it produces nitrogen oxide emissions.

**6. It can be an Important Energy Storage Option:** Hydrogen energy storage allows for **storing renewable energy**, in both liquid and gaseous forms. Liquid hydrogen has transportation applications in [FCEVs](https://energytheory.com/what-are-fuel-cell-electric-vehicles-fcevs/) or can be used as fuel in rocket engines, trucks, or rail. Moreover, gaseous hydrogen can serve as storage in portable tanks for natural geological formations.

Ultimately, hydrogen energy works as renewable storage and is used to distribute electricity during peak demand. It also helps in the decarbonization of the power sector, reducing harmful emissions. For more such informative content, keep exploring our website.

**Recommended:** [Bi-Fuel Vs. Dual Fuel: What’s the Key Difference?](https://energytheory.com/bi-fuel-vs-dual-fuel/)

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[Olivia Bolt](https://energytheory.com/author/olivia_bolt/)

Olivia is committed to green energy and works to help ensure our planet's long-term habitability. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic.

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#### [5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells](https://energytheory.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-hydrogen-fuel-cells/)

March 7, 2024

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#### [Hydrogen Fuel Cells Explained: Efficiency and Working](https://energytheory.com/what-are-hydrogen-fuel-cells-used-for/)

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