Challenges - Research and Innovative Technology Administration ...

Ro l e o f Hy d r o g e n
The national interest in creating a hydrogen infrastructure reflects the potential role hydrogen could play
in meeting the goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by mid-century. Without hydrogen and
hydrogen fuel cells helping to power transportation, the Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that attaining
this goal will slip from mid-century to about 2075 or later.
As shown in figure 1.2, the Congressional Research Service (CRS) estimates 63 percent of GHG come
from fuel combustion and 98 percent of transportation fuel is fossil-based. For 2008, the Energy Information
Administration estimates the total for fossil-based transportation fuel at 99 percent.
Figure 1.2: Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2005
63%
CO2 – Fuel Consumption
HFC, IPFC + SF6 1%
All Others 2%
CH4 Waste 3%
1%
2%
CO2 Land
Use & Other
CH4 Ag.
CH4
Energy
5%
3%
11%
NO2 Ag.
7%
8%
Source: Congressional Research Service graphic with estimates from International Energy Agency CO2 Emission from Fuel
Combustion 1971 -2005, 2007, on-line database as of Jan. 16, 2008.
6 Challenges of Building a Hydrogen Infrastructure