What is the carbon intensity of different hydrogen colors?

Carbon intensity by type: Green (renewable electrolysis): 0.5-2 kg CO2e/kg H2. Blue (natural gas + CCS): 2-5 kg CO2e/kg H2 (depends on CCS capture rate). Grey (natural gas, no CCS): 9-12 kg CO2e/kg H2. Black (coal): 18-20 kg CO2e/kg H2.

Is blue hydrogen actually low carbon?

Blue hydrogen controversy: CCS capture rates of 85-90% (not 95%+) and methane leakage in gas supply chains (1-3%) result in lifecycle emissions of 3-6 kg CO2e/kg H2 for many real-world blue hydrogen projects — not as low as claimed. Well integrity and upstream methane are key variables.

What grid carbon intensity is needed for 'green' hydrogen?

EU Delegated Act defines green hydrogen as requiring electricity source with <100 g CO2/kWh. At 50 kWh/kg H2 and 100 g/kWh: 5 kg CO2/kg H2 (still higher than target). Green hydrogen requires dedicated renewable electricity or certificates, not average grid power.

Green Hydrogen Carbon Intensity Calculator

Calculate the carbon intensity (kg CO2e/kg H2) of hydrogen production by electrolysis. Compare green, grey, blue, and turquoise hydrogen carbon footprints.

2D stress state at a point. All stresses in MPa.

σx — Normal Stress X (MPa)

σy — Normal Stress Y (MPa)

τxy — Shear Stress (MPa)

⚙ Mechanical Note: Results are based on standard textbook formulas and ISO/AASHTO references. Always verify critical designs with applicable codes (ISO 898, AASHTO 1993, AISC, Eurocode 3) and a qualified engineer.

How to Use

Enter the values for the patient or scenario you are assessing. Calculate the carbon intensity (kg CO2e/kg H2) of hydrogen production by electrolysis. Compare green, grey, blue, and turquoise hydrogen carbon footprints. Use the green h2 carbon intensity result to inform your clinical assessment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the carbon intensity of different hydrogen colors?

Is blue hydrogen actually low carbon?

What grid carbon intensity is needed for 'green' hydrogen?