GS PrelimsScience and TechnologyInnovation in Energy Technology2023

Consider the following heavy industries : 1. Fertilizer plants 2. Oil refineries 3. Steel plants Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in decarbonizing how many of the above industries?

A

Only one

B

Only two

C

All three

D

None

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

1. Green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis powered by renewable energy, is considered a key element for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors. 2. Fertilizer plants: The production of ammonia, a key component of nitrogen fertilizers, currently relies heavily on hydrogen derived from fossil fuels (grey hydrogen). Substituting this with green hydrogen is a primary strategy for decarbonizing the fertilizer industry. Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role. 3. Oil refineries: Refineries use substantial amounts of hydrogen for processes like hydrotreating (removing sulfur) and hydrocracking. Replacing the conventionally produced hydrogen with green hydrogen can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of refining operations. Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role. 4. Steel plants: Green hydrogen can be used as a reducing agent in the Direct Reduction of Iron (DRI) process, replacing coal or natural gas. This hydrogen-based DRI process, coupled with an electric arc furnace, offers a pathway to near-zero emission steel production. Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in decarbonizing steelmaking. 5. Therefore, green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in decarbonizing all three listed heavy industries.

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