Hydrogen is a simple molecule, but a complex topic. Its versatility leads to a lot of terms that are not always easy to understand. We compiled a glossary to explain some of the terms we use in our project communication.
The list is not finished yet, more terminology will be added throughout the project.
Hydrogen is the most common chemical in the universe. The molecyle consists of two hydrogen atoms (H2). Hydrogen is often industrially produced by separating the oxygen (O) and hydrogen (H2) atoms in water (H2O) using electricity in a process called electrolysis. If the electricity used in this process is renewable, the hydrogen produced is called green hydrogen.
See video below!
Hydrogen economy describes the economy built around green hydrogen and its derivatives. Hydrogen economy is an umbrella term for everything hydrogen can do in different industries. The term covers the whole versatile value chain from renewable energy to end product.
Renewable hydrogen can replace fossil alternatives in many different industrial processes and fuels. There are so many possibilities to utilise green hydrogen that it has been referred to as an entirely new industry.
A hydrogen valley is a geographical area where various parts of the hydrogen value chain are concentrated, forming a local ecosystem of hydrogen production, distribution, and utilisation. Hydrogen can be transmitted as such, via a pipeline or a refuelling station, or processed further in the valley.
In a hydrogen valley, the distribution and utilisation value chains, as well as side streams like heat, have been considered beforehand to maximise sector integration and efficiency. BalticSeaH2 valley includes six industries: energy, transport, chemical, petro-chemical, refining, and fertilizer industry.
P2X or Power-2-X or Power-to-X refers to when renewable electricity is used to produce sustainable products.
Hydrogen is often either the end product or a step in the process of producing ammonia or synthetic hydrocarbons such as methane, methanol and aviation fuels.
RFNBO comes from the words ‘Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin’. It refers to fuels that are produced from renewable energy sources other than biomass.
Hydrogen is considered an RFNBO. Hydrogen can be used to produce other liquid fuels, such as ammonia, methanol or e-fuels. They are also considered RFNBO’s when produced from renewable hydrogen.
Hydrogen is a colourless gas, but different colours represent the different types of production processes.
