System Analysis: Hydrogen production from nuclear energy
Hydrogen and Generation IV (Gen IV) nuclear energy technologies have the potential to play a significant role in the clean energy transition. This report aims to explore the commercial readiness and provide a techno-economic analysis of the feasibility and economic cost of low-carbon hydrogen production using high-temperature steam electrolysis (HTSE) coupled with nuclear energy sources, specifically focusing on High-Temperature Gas-cooled Reactors (HTGRs). The report leverages insights from the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) and the Nuclear Energy Agency Working Group on Hydrogen Value Chains.
A common set of modeling inputs and baseline assumptions for a system producing hydrogen through HTSE using an 800 MW HTGR system was developed and shared with multiple international research teams, who then applied their own models and methodologies to estimate the cost and quantity of hydrogen produced. A questionnaire was also distributed to experts in the nuclear energy and hydrogen sectors to seek input on the perceived technical and commercial readiness of this system, and to understand integration challenges.
The modeling suggests that the specified HTGR-HTSE integrated system could produce approximately 66 million kg of H2 per year at costs ranging from USD 3.04 to USD 3.72 per kg on a levelized basis under baseline assumptions. LCOH values align with previous estimates from the United Kingdom for a first of a kind HTGR system. The CNL HESO model explores additional scenarios beyond the baseline scenario. The expert survey showed that key barriers to integration include regulatory uncertainty, a lack of sufficient cost data for the systems, the identification of suitable markets, and a need for a demonstration at scale. Advantages for emissions reduction and energy security are also identified.
The opportunity for nuclear hydrogen is particularly strong for applications requiring a large, continuous supply of hydrogen at a single point of consumption. No technical gaps are identified that would prevent this system from operating successfully, but significantly more work is needed to advance the readiness and certainty of an integrated system at the relevant commercial scale. While Light Water Reactors (LWRs) can already support HTSE integration, commercial Generation IV technologies may offer additional benefits and are expected to improve overall efficiency once they reach maturity. To advance commercialization, this report offers recommendations for various stakeholder groups which aim to advance technical readiness, improve cost certainty, and establish commercialization pathways for hydrogen production from Gen IV nuclear energy systems.