Decarbonization of gas energy using hydrogen

Abstract

Synthetic methane produced by methanation to generate gas with renewable energy and hydrogen is called e-methane. Introduction of e-methane is considered as one of the promising measures of decarbonization for gas energy since the existing infrastructure can be utilized and additional social cost can be suppressed. Tokyo Gas has set forth the “Challenge to achieve net-zero CO₂ emissions” in its group corporate vision “Compass 2030”. Advanced uses of natural gas, introduction of carbon-neutral liquefied natural gas (LNG), etc., are currently being promoted. We are willing to contribute to government’s goal of “Realizing carbon neutral and decarbonized society in 2050”. Responsible transitions will be achieved by stable energy supply and net-zero CO₂ emissions. For this purpose, technology develop, demonstration and commercialization of e-methane, hydrogen, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) for CO₂ management are currently on going. In this paper, recent activities related to decarbonization of gas energy such as hydrogen production and utilization are introduced. Demonstration of methanation and establishing supply-chain of e-methane are also introduced.