To achieve the Net Zero goal by 2050, the deployment of renewable energy is progressing rapidly. Japan has set a goal to increase the share of renewable energy to 40–50% by 2040.
However, electricity from renewable sources is highly variable, necessitating balancing power to ensure grid stability. Furthermore, when renewable energy output increases sharply, curtailment becomes unavoidable, resulting in the disposal of a significant amount of unused, CO₂-free electricity.
Hydrogen energy is expected to play a essential role in balancing and utilizing unused renewable electricity, as well as reducing costs and mitigating CO₂ emissions. To this end, improving the efficiency of "power-to-gas (P2G)" systems, which encompass the production, storage, and utilization of hydrogen, is necessary.
Our laboratory aims to develop an "Hydrogen Energy System Utilizing Renewable Energy" by researching and developing materials and devices for hydrogen production (water electrolysis), storage (metal hydrides), and utilization (fuel cells).
Additionally, we are advancing research on hybrid hydrogen systems that contains batteries storage within the system for a comprehensive monitoring, forecasting, and control of renewable electricity.