The Future of Hydrogen as a Fuel: A Game-Changer in Clean Energy
Updated on: 06 June, 2025

As the world’s shift toward sustainable energy sources, hydrogen is now thought of as a potential fuel alternative. Growing concerns about climate change and the depletion of fossil fuel reserves have triggered interest in hydrogen as a resource to assist us in moving towards a cleaner, more efficient energy system. However, what makes hydrogen so exciting, and what does the future of using hydrogen as a mainstream fuel look like? Hydrogen is an abundant element that can be burned cleanly (zero carbon) or used in a fuel cell. When burned, the only by-product of hydrogen use is water, making hydrogen an environmentally friendly form of energy. Hydrogen can be produced in several ways; one key production method can be done via water electrolysis with renewable-powered electricity. Thus, hydrogen may be a significant tool for achieving net zero emissions
While hydrogen has many benefits, there are still some challenges to face. Electrolysis is still expensive and requires excessive energy to make hydrogen. Fortunately, new green hydrogen technologies using solar- and wind-powered electrolysis are driving prices down. Storage and transportation are also obstacles since hydrogen must be placed in high-pressure containers or liquefied and kept at very low temperatures. Researchers are investigating a more efficient storage solution, solid-state hydrogen storage, and new pipeline structures
While hydrogen has many benefits, there are still some challenges to face. Electrolysis is still expensive and requires excessive energy to make hydrogen. Fortunately, new green hydrogen technologies using solar- and wind-powered electrolysis are driving prices down. Storage and transportation are also obstacles since hydrogen must be placed in high-pressure containers or liquefied and kept at very low temperatures. Researchers are investigating a more efficient storage solution, solid-state hydrogen storage, and new pipeline structures.
As technology progresses and costs continue to fall, hydrogen is ready to play a leading role in the global energy transition. Governments and industries around the world are investing in hydrogen infrastructure, research, and regulations to push for adoption. If technological developments continue, hydrogen will likely transform transportation, industry, and power generation, establishing hydrogen as a pillar of a clean energy economy
Hydrogen’s Expanding Global Footprint
Hydrogen is gaining momentum as a clean energy carrier, with global production reaching around 95 million tonnes in 2023. However, nearly 99% of this is still produced from fossil fuels, mainly natural gas and coal, while green hydrogen, made through electrolysis using renewable energy, accounts for less than 1%. Despite the current imbalance, green hydrogen is expected to scale rapidly, with projections reaching 10 million tonnes annually by 2030. Cost remains a challenge, ranging from $3–6 per kg, but global initiatives aim to bring it down to $1/kg. Hydrogen’s role is especially promising in heavy transport and industrial sectors, though infrastructure development and investment, estimated at $500 billion by 2030, are critical to unlocking its full potential.
From Prototype to Production: SGT University’s Step Toward a Hydrogen-Powered World
In line with the vision of hydrogen as a future fuel, the Department of Mechanical Engineering at SGT University has developed and fabricated a prototype electrolysis setup in the Hydrogen Engine Lab for clean hydrogen production, in collaboration with CST Envirotech. This initiative reflects a hands-on approach to sustainability and innovation in engineering education. Building on this achievement, the team is now planning to advance the setup toward the development stage for mass hydrogen production with a target capacity of up to 3 kW. These efforts not only support academic research but also contribute to real-world solutions for a cleaner, hydrogen-powered future.
Written By:
Dr. Mayank Choubey
Assistant Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
