Breaking Ground: Ireland's Pathway to Affordable Green Hydrogen
N/A, Monday, 21 April 2025.
Ireland could soon lead in green hydrogen production, thanks to a study revealing that combining solar and wind could slash costs. Plus, Cork claims the title of cheapest production spot!
A New Dawn for Green Hydrogen in Ireland
As I delve into this fascinating study, it becomes clear that Ireland stands at the cusp of a green hydrogen revolution. The research, carried out using the innovative ‘HyWiS’ model, which simulates various renewable energy systems, suggests that integrating solar and wind resources could drastically lower production costs [1]. This is potentially groundbreaking as it highlights Ireland’s unique position to lead in the sustainable energy landscape by reducing the levelised cost of hydrogen (LCOH) to an incredibly competitive range of €2.75 to €4.01 per kilogram of hydrogen [1].
Cork: The Emerald Isle’s Green Hub
Here’s where it gets even more interesting. The study points to the city of Cork as the prime location for these green hydrogen endeavours. It boasts the lowest levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) when coupling solar and wind power, a combination that could take Ireland’s hydrogen game to a whole new level [1]. By selling excess electricity to the Irish grid, Cork could further reduce hydrogen costs by a significant span of 8.78 to 13.52% [1]. The math really checks out, doesn’t it? (new-old)/old*100.
Forecasting Green Hydrogen’s Future
Fast forward to the next decade, and this study predicts a substantial reduction in green hydrogen costs. If Ireland maintains its current trajectory, the investment reduction alone is expected to lower these costs by 20.27% between 2030 and 2040 [1]. With Europe beginning numerous initiatives to decarbonise and reach carbon neutrality, the push for green hydrogen is not just an environmental necessity but a compelling economic opportunity as well [1].
Closing the Green Loop
I can’t help but feel a tinge of excitement when considering the broader picture. This isn’t just about Ireland; it’s a glimpse into how nations worldwide can shift towards greener economies. Imagine a world where industrial-scale green hydrogen becomes the norm, driven by innovations in blending wind and solar power [1]. Wouldn’t it be something if this small island inspired global change? As Europe anticipates a massive increase in hydrogen demand, potentially exceeding 17,000 terawatt-hours by 2050, the stage is set [1].