Liquefied Hydrogen, Ammonia and Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers for Harbour-to-harbour Hydrogen Transport: A Sensitivity Study

Hydrogen is commonly perceived as the key player in the transition towards a low-carbon future. Nevertheless, H2 low energy density hinders its easy storage and transportation. To address this issue, different alternatives (liquefied hydrogen, ammonia and liquid organic hydrogen carriers) are explored as hydrogen vectors. The techno-economic assessment of H2 transport through these carriers is strongly dependent on the basis of design adopted, such that it is difficult to draw general conclusions. In this respect, this work is aimed at performing a sensitivity analysis on the hypotheses introduced in the layout of H2 value chains. Different scenarios are discussed, depending on harbour-to-harbour distances, cost of utilities and raw materials and H2 application to the industrial or mobility sector. The most cost-effective carrier is selected for each case-study: NH3 is the most advantageous for industrial sector, while LH2 holds promises for mobility. Critical issues are pointed out for future large-scale applications.