What is hydrogen?

Hydrogen is a chemical element that can store and deliver energy. While it exists naturally in our environment, hydrogen can also be made through a process called electrolysis.

This uses a device called an electrolyser that sends a strong electric current through water (H₂O). The current splits the water into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂). Both can be collected and used for different industrial purposes. If the electricity comes from renewable sources like solar or wind, the hydrogen that is made is called renewable hydrogen.

At room temperature, hydrogen is a gas and is stored safely in strong, high-pressure tanks. When hydrogen is cooled below –253°C, it turns into a liquid.

Hydrogen gas is invisible and cannot be smelled, touched, or tasted. It is also very light and quickly escapes into the air if released.

Hydrogen as a clean energy source

Renewable hydrogen is a clean energy source. It can power vehicles, create electricity and provide heat, all while having a small environmental impact.

It can be used in existing gas infrastructure and can be blended with natural gas or used as a standalone fuel. When hydrogen is used in fuel cells, it only produces water and heat, making it a greener option than fossil fuels.

Hydrogen has many uses which include:

• fuelling transport like trucks and buses
• making industrial products like fertilisers for use in agriculture
• providing heat and power for mining and metals production
• storing and providing power.

Because hydrogen can work as a high-temperature fuel (above 1000°C), it is an option for industries that find it difficult to switch from fossil fuels to electric methods for their operations, helping reduce their carbon emissions.

Hydrogen can also be produced and stored during times of abundant renewable energy production, like on sunny or windy days. This stored hydrogen can then be converted back into electricity at peak energy usage times, helping make renewable energy systems more stable.

Hydrogen is one of the many sustainable fuels that could help industries lower their carbon emissions and   support a pathway to net zero.

Safety

Hydrogen is as safe as many of the fuels we currently rely on. In Queensland, hydrogen safety regulation helps ensure it is safely produced, stored and transported.

More information

• Learn about other renewable energy technologies that make up Queensland’s SuperGrid.
• Find out about renewable energy projects in your region.