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Water Requirements for Hydrogen Production: Assessing Future Demand and Impacts on Texas Water Resources

Author

Listed:
  • Ning Lin

    (Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Mariam Arzumanyan

    (Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Edna Rodriguez Calzado

    (Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA)

  • Jean-Philippe Nicot

    (Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA)

Abstract

Hydrogen is emerging as a critical component in the global energy transition, providing a low-carbon alternative for sectors such as industry and transportation. This paper aims to comprehensively address water usage in hydrogen production by exploring the water demands of different production methods and their implications for water management, particularly in Texas. Key variables influencing water consumption are identified, and potential water demands under different hydrogen market scenarios are estimated. Using spatial analysis, regions where hydrogen production may stress local water resources are identified, alongside policy recommendations for sustainable water use.

Suggested Citation

  • Ning Lin & Mariam Arzumanyan & Edna Rodriguez Calzado & Jean-Philippe Nicot, 2025. "Water Requirements for Hydrogen Production: Assessing Future Demand and Impacts on Texas Water Resources," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-25, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:2:p:385-:d:1561615
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    3. Kar, Aritra & Bahadur, Vaibhav, 2020. "Using excess natural gas for reverse osmosis-based flowback water treatment in US shale fields," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 196(C).
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