Understanding the Sustainable Hydrogen Generation Potential for the Region of Bavaria, Germany via Bio Waste Processing using Thermo-Chemical Conversion Technology

Future decarbonization targets demand higher penetration of renewable energy (RE) sources into the system. However, challenges such as uneven spatial and temporal distribution of various RE source’s potentials for green electricity (GE) generation, demand alternative ways to store and later utilize the generated energy. In addition to that, sustainable development goals (SDG), highlight the need for responsible use of resources with increased recycling and reduction in corresponding waste generation while ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. In this paper, an attempt is given to address both the issues of biodegradable waste (BW) processing and sustainable hydrogen (SH) production through it. Thermo-chemical conversion technology (TCC) and in that, especially ’Thermo catalytic reforming’ (TCR®) technology has been explored as an option to provide viable solution. An added advantage of decentralized hydrogen production can be envisioned here which can also contribute to regional energy security to some degree. To analyze the concept, Bavarian region in Germany along with open source data for the bio waste from two main sources, namely domestic household and sewage sludge (SS) has been considered. Based on that, corresponding regional hydrogen demand coverage potential has been analysed.