Prospects of hydrogen energy development based on a regional example

In connection with ongoing climate change, an important factor in the development of the global energy is reducing its carbon footprint. Hydrogen energy may be the answer to the transition to environmentally friendly and resource-saving energy. The article presents an analytical review of promising methods of hydrogen production on the example of the Saratov region, as well as its potential consumers in the real and long term. The review content was selected by analyzing scientific articles published in various databases, electronic scientific libraries and media articles published on the internet. It was concluded that hydrogen produced in the Saratov region will be consumed to a greater extent in the same territory. The production of phosphate fertilizers and the utilization of hydrogen-containing gases in the oil reforming process will be the drivers of hydrogen energy development in the region. In the long term, the use of hydrogen as fuel will be developed. A high-tech autonomous hydrogen energy complex implemented at the Balakovo NPP will be capable of producing and supplying electricity to the electric power system during in the peak hours. It is noted that the Saratov region has the potential to produce biohydrogen obtained by processing agricultural waste. State measures to stimulate hydrogen producers and consumers in the region will play a decisive role in increasing the efficiency of hydrogen energy development in the Saratov region.