DECODING THE
HYDROGEN RAINBOW

The beauty of the hydrogen rainbow lies within its ability to embrace a multitude of feedstocks, the raw materials used for production. Just as a rainbow reflects a spectrum of colors in light, the hydrogen rainbow showcases the distinct types, differences, and characteristics in feedstocks and lets us embrace opportunities to tailor hydrogen production to specific contexts and requirements.

HYDROGEN PRODUCTION PATHWAYS & CARBON INTENSITY

H2 value chain: Where it stands today

While the complexity of the hydrogen value chain may seem intimidating, GE Vernova is ready to demystify this multifaceted ecosystem. As GE Vernova businesses come together, we continue to collaborate and support our customers in unpacking the challenges surrounding integration, infrastructure, microgrids, and the increased demand driven by green hydrogen production. Watch the webinar to learn more!

GREY/BLACK HYDROGEN

This is the most prevalent form of hydrogen production today. It shares similarities with blue hydrogen, as both are derived from natural gas or coal using steam methane reforming. However, grey hydrogen lacks the crucial element of carbon capture and storage, resulting in the release of greenhouse gases during the production process.

BLUE HYDROGEN

Like grey hydrogen, blue hydrogen uses steam methane reforming to produce hydrogen. However, blue hydrogen integrates carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technology to capture and store the resulting carbon emissions.

GREEN HYDROGEN

Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis where renewable energy sources—including wind, solar, and hydroelectric—are used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This production method does not generate carbon emissions^*.

*Zero carbon emissions refers to the hydrogen production process. There is a lifecycle GHG emission for this technology that is based on raw materials, manufacturing, and transportation, etc.

TURQUOISE HYDROGEN

Turquoise hydrogen is produced by the pyrolysis, or thermal decomposition, of methane which isolates hydrogen and produces solid carbon as a by-product.

RED/PINK HYDROGEN

This class of hydrogen is produced using electricity generated via nuclear power. In this process, nuclear-fission based power plants generate electricity that drive electrolysis in which water molecules are split into hydrogen and oxygen.

GOLD/WHITE HYDROGEN

Gold or white hydrogen is a naturally occurring form of hydrogen that could be extracted through a well from underground sources where iron-rich rocks interact with water. There are questions on the potential (available) volumes of naturally occurring H2, and where these pockets exist. The U.S. government has announced funding for research into extraction technologies.

A HYDROGEN FUTURE

Today, GE Vernova is at the forefront of addressing the challenge of affordable, reliable and sustainable renewable energy production. With one of the broadest power and electrification portfolios in the industry, together we can paint a future where hydrogen production is as dynamic as the colors of the rainbow, empowering us to create a sustainable and vibrant energy landscape for the future.

LEADING A NEW ERA OF ENERGY

Interested in learning more? Hear from our experts.