Analysis of Technological Advancements and Integration Potential of Hydrogen Production, Storage, and Utilization for Achieving Carbon Neutrality

Hydrogen is a pivotal energy carrier in achieving carbon neutrality, offering high versatility as both a fuel and chemical feedstock across diverse sectors. This review categorizes hydrogen technologies into production, storage, and utilization, providing an in-depth analysis of advancements made over the past five years. Production pathways include water electrolysis, methane pyrolysis, biomass conversion, and waste-derived hydrogen. Storage methods such as compressed and liquefied hydrogen, LOHCs, ammonia, methanol, and underground storage are evaluated in terms of density, safety, and infrastructure compatibility. Utilization technologies span fuel cells, direct combustion, hydrogen cofiring, ammonia-based indirect use, and industrial applications such as steelmaking and chemical synthesis. The review emphasizes the integration potential across the hydrogen value chain, identifying key challenges such as energy efficiency, economic feasibility, and system-level compatibility. Based on these findings, technical directions and integration strategies are proposed for establishing a sustainable and resilient hydrogen energy system.