Blue Hydrogen Cogeneration as an Energy Vector for a Sustainable Future: A Case for Alberta, Canada

Hydrogen is a promising clean energy vector capable of decarbonizing future energy systems. This study explores blue hydrogen production via a modified autothermal reforming process, integrated with oxy-fuel combustion and carbon capture technologies. The process achieves approximately 99.8% carbon dioxide capture while co-generating electricity, improving both environmental and economic performance. A detailed techno-economic analysis for Alberta, Canada, shows that hydrogen can be produced at a competitive cost of $1.70 per kilogram, depending on natural gas supply pressure, with CO2 emissions of just 3.82 kg-CO2/kg-H2, meeting stringent international low-carbon thresholds. Key parameters like natural gas supply pressure, oxygen-to-methane ratio, and turbine pressure ratio were optimized for flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Sensitivity analysis identified financial, policy, and grid decarbonization factors as key drivers of production costs. Compared to other methods, this process stands out for its superior environmental and economic outcomes, particularly in regions with ample natural gas and carbon capture infrastructure. The study underscores the importance of process innovation in advancing sustainable blue hydrogen.