Transforming Lakes and Reservoirs into Hydrogen Storage Hubs

A new study proposes a novel method of storing hydrogen using existing infrastructure at the bottom of lakes and reservoirs. Researchers suggest that high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, commonly used for water management in these bodies of water, could also serve as an efficient storage solution for green hydrogen.

Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis using renewable energy sources, has the potential to decarbonise various industries. However, one of the key barriers to its widespread adoption has been the challenge of developing scalable, cost-effective storage solutions.

HDPE pipes, already in use in lakes and reservoirs for managing water pressure, offer a promising alternative for hydrogen storage. The natural pressure from the water column above the pipes could help maintain the hydrogen at the right pressure, avoiding unnecessary expansion. This method could be especially advantageous near cities and industrial areas, where large-scale hydrogen storage is critical.

Read more: Researchers propose hydrogen storage using existing infrastructure in lakes and reservoirs