Hydrogen-Powered Agriculture: Cost Analysis of Hydrogen Logistics in Rural Areas

This paper presents a cost analysis of public and private hydrogen refueling stations (HRS) in rural areas. The approach is to describe the downstream options for hydrogen supply in rural areas and to present a costing methodology that allows the formulation of tailored recommendations for establishing a rural hydrogen supply infrastructure. Practical experience from building a public HRS in combination with a hydrogen-powered tractor is included. HRS are responsible for a significant fraction of the total cost of downstream distribution logistics, with costs of at least (sic) 2.50/kg H-2 even if the total hydrogen demand is high. Currently, public HRS supplied with tube trailers are the most cost-effective option for providing agricultural machinery in rural areas with H-2. Promoting on-site hydrogen production, integrated with renewable energy sources in rural areas, can enhance cost-effectiveness, align with decarbonization goals, and foster energy independence. This approach is particularly relevant given that centralized hydrogen infrastructure may not be fully operational by 2035.