Towards the Development of Large-Scale, Technically Viable and Sustainable Hydrogen Production: Multicriteria Assessment for Technological Readiness

In addressing the increasing global energy demand, this manuscript compares four distinct processes for hydrogen production from natural gas (NG): steam methane reforming (SMR), dry methane reforming (DMR), autothermal reforming (ATR), and catalytic methane decomposition (CMD). The comparison emphasizes their respective efficiencies and environmental impacts. Simulations were conducted using the Peng–Robinson model, implemented in the DWSIM 8.8.3 software package, considering commercially available Colombian natural gas. Technical and environmental impacts were taken into account for the evaluation of the most practical hydrogen production plant by employing, for the first time, the TOPSIS method of comparison. Reaching 0.36 kg H2 per kg of NG, ATR stands out as the top TOPSIS solution. However, SMR is not far behind, producing more hydrogen than any of its competing alternatives (0.56 kg H2 per kg of NG) but at a significantly larger environmental cost. DMR demonstrates promising potential for utilizing CO2. Finally, CMD proves to be advantageous in terms of cleanliness and reduced CO emissions but is limited by the high temperature requirements and the constant need for catalyst regeneration. This paper aims to raise awareness about Colombia’s abundant natural resources and its potential to play a significant role in the future hydrogen economy.