Point-to-point transportation: The economics of hydrogen export

Hydrogen transport over long distances is a critical cost component, and it can involve many complex pathways. We have developed a model and an associated framework that can be used to determine the cost of transport methods for both land and land-and-sea scenarios. The model assesses the transportation of liquid and gaseous hydrogen by truck, rail, and barge; as well as gaseous hydrogen pipelines. Our results show that for large scale and long-distance hydrogen transport, the only feasible gaseous hydrogen transport option are pipelines. For example, a well-planned pipeline can keep hydrogen transportation costs below $3 per kg for distances up to 7000 km so long as the demand is greater than 150 tonnes per day. Liquid hydrogen transport is feasible and efficient for long distance transport, especially when used alongside rail travel providing less than 50 tonnes per day.