Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC) (2024 Program)

The use of liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC) is an alternative to transporting hydrogen without the need for pipeline infrastructure or hydrogen liquefaction. Instead, organic materials are hydrogenated at the hydrogen production source, transported to their destination, and dehydrogenated to release the hydrogen for use. The bulk transportation of organic liquids is commonplace, relatively low cost, and well established, thus simplifying the movement of hydrogen via LOHC. With the growing demand for green hydrogen to support decarbonization efforts worldwide, LOHC is emerging as a practical means of transporting hydrogen from production sites to consumption sites. This report provides an overview of LOHC technologies. The report also includes a technology readiness level (TRL) summary of LOHC options, carbon intensity analysis, and discussion related to the cost of transporting hydrogen for various LOHC types. Comparisons with other hydrogen transportation options such as liquefied hydrogen and ammonia are also presented.