University of Sheffield Revealed PEM Hydrogen PathwayResearchers at the University of Sheffield revealed findings showing how proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis could produce low-carbon hydrogen, featuring scenarios that pair UK manufacturing with US imports. The study modeled 20 supply-chain pathways across 14 countries from 2023 to 2050 and linked PEM performance to the carbon intensity of grid electricity. The analysis compared three electrolysis routes and two biomass methods, detailing lifecycle impacts tied to manufacturing, operation and electricity sourcing. Results indicated PEM electrolysis had high impacts in 2023 when grids relied on fossil fuels but could become the lowest-emission option by 2050 if countries meet clean-power targets. For consumers and policymakers the takeaway is pragmatic: PEM hydrogen can deliver deep emission cuts only if production is coupled with rapidly decarbonizing grids and deliberate supply-chain design, making coordinated energy and industrial policy central to hydrogen’s role in net-zero transitions.

Source: Economic Times March 13, 2026 19:48 UTC