Hydrogen an environmental revolution toward clean energy transition: a green concept for current and future perspectives

Hydrogen (H2) is a clean and versatile energy source to mitigate future energy crises. As a result, it has also been regarded as the ‘fuel of the future’ and global research is focused on identifying diverse H2 sources and designing economically viable production processes. However, many challenges such as production optimization, storage, transport and cost associated with H2 production make it a less viable option commercially. Despite the challenges, researchers globally are working toward developing new production and storage processes via the integration of the latest technological advancements. Thus, the present article discusses the emergence of H2 as an efficient and clean energy source. The article also presents an insight into the types of H2 ‘colors’ and highlights its ability to replace carbon-based petroleum refineries. The work also discusses H2 production, storage, and distribution for its utilization in energy and industrial sectors. Further, the economic and life cycle assessment analyses of H2 production processes provide insight into the different stages involved and how various tools can be used to design cost-effective production processes. The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming numerous fields, and science is no exception. Thus, the current review also explores the potential of AI integration and optimization in H2 production suggesting its potential role as a clean energy and sustainable energy source of the future.