Hydrogen and the Transition to Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Ontario as a Case Study

Human-caused climate change impacts have convinced governments around the world, including Canada, to commit to net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emission by mid-century.  Achieving this target requires replacement of our fossil carbon based energy carriers (gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and natural gas) with zero-emission energy carriers produced with minimal or no GHG emissions.  Electricity is the most promising energy carrier for a net zero future, but it cannot meet all needs.  Sustainably produced biofuels can work with existing infrastructure but the feedstock supply is likely to fall short of demand.  For some sectors, hydrogen is emerging as the zero emission energy carrier of choice for a number of sectors.  In my presentation, I will deconstruct the energy systems of Ontario and explore what we see as the most promising zero-emission energy carriers in a net zero future.  I will then focus on the challenges and opportunities to produce, transport and use low GHG hydrogen in Ontario.