By turning water into smaller molecules, energy facilities can collect hydrogen in an environmentally friendly way. Learn more about green hydrogen and how we regulate it.
How green hydrogen works
Green hydrogen, also known as green electrolytic hydrogen, comes from a process called electrolysis, which splits water into oxygen and hydrogen. Electrolysis requires energy; if that energy comes from a renewable power source (such as wind or solar energy), then it will produce “green” hydrogen. Because green hydrogen itself doesn’t create emissions, it’s a clean alternative to fossil fuels.
Green hydrogen facilities use special machines called electrolyzers to produce hydrogen on a large scale. They then store and transport it in either gas or liquid form. Uses for green hydrogen include:
- Fuel for vehicles and other types of transportation
- Energy for power plants and certain industries
- Heating for homes and other buildings
How we oversee green hydrogen
Green hydrogen facilities don’t need our approval. However, these facilities may choose to come to us for certification through our siting process.