IEA-HIA Task 23 Small Scale Reformers for On-site Hydrogen Supply

Abstract

The main objective of Task 23 Small Scale Reformers for On-site Hydrogen Supply has been to provide a basis for harmonization of technology for on-site hydrogen production from hydrocarbon s– fossil and renewable. The four sub-objectives were to: • Develop a basis for harmonized capacities for the on-site hydrogen reformer unit • Identify and examine issues related to the promotion of widespread use of on-site hydrogen reformer units • Develop a global market guide for the use of on-site hydrogen reformers • Describe the technology link to renewable sources An exclusive network of worldwide suppliers of reformers as well as gas companies and research institutes has contributed to the work. In total 10 countries from 15 companies and institutes have participated in the discussion and evaluation of technology for harmonization of on-site production units enabling more optimal use of feedstock. The ambition has been to contribute to reduced production costs, improved system performance and mass production of on-site reformer units. Task 23 has been successful in creating a platform for discussion and novel collaborations, supplying knowledge and experience on the use of reformers for on-site hydrogen production. On-site hydrogen supply is an important stepping-stone towards the development of a hydrogen infrastructure and a more environmental friendly transport sector. This is seen in the development of hydrogen infrastructures in Europe, US and in Japan where all the demonstration projects have included service stations with on-site production units. Current infrastructure development is mainly part of demonstration projects, and experiences show that hydrogen from on-site production is competitive compared to many other alternatives. Task 23 has contributed development of a basis for safe and harmonized technology and a global market guide for on-site reforming. There is a need to continue this work and ensure a more unbiased verification of on-site production technologies (reforming and electrolysis). Such work can only be performed under an impartial global organisation as IEA-HIA. A continued strong industrial engagement in the work performed under the IEA-HIA is essential to ensure that industrial (real) data are supplied to future analysis, and to ensure global industry support in development of the hydrogen society. There is a strong motivation among the industrial partners of Task 23 to bring forward a new task on small scale production of hydrogen. The network will enable interaction across technology and market segments to support harmonisation of on-site supply technology. The new task will be an industry driven task and empowering the IEA-HIA with research results, industrial support, data and market expertise