State of Michigan Hydrogen Demand Analysis: Current (2022), Near-term (2030), and Long-term (2050)

Abstract

This report examines current and potential demand for hydrogen in hard-to-abate end-uses including petroleum refining, chemicals, pulp and paper, steelmaking, cement, glass, semiconductor manufacturing, and medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (MHDV) across the state. The potential reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) and nitrogen oxide emissions associated with hydrogen deployment is also calculated. Hydrogen demand estimates are intended to inform the planning of a regional hydrogen ecosystem by identifying potential nodes of hydrogen use in key sectors in Michigan.

Highlights from the technical report include:

Current (2022) demand is estimated at approximately 39,100 metric tons of hydrogen per year

In the near term (2030), hydrogen demand could grow by as much as 60% driven by new opportunities in steelmaking and expansion in MHDV use

In the long-term (2050), hydrogen demand could grow between 420% to 2,700%, depending on costs, infrastructure, and scaling of production

If produced through polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysis with renewable electricity, these demand growth scenarios could reduce GHG emissions by 20% or more