New Study Reveals Sustainable Path for Green Hydrogen Production in Water-Stressed Central Asia

Researchers from the CAREC Institute and Riga Technical University in Latvia have unveiled a sustainable strategy for green hydrogen production in Central Asia, aimed at addressing the region’s impending water deficit by 2030. The study, titled “Upcoming Water Deficit in Central Asia Rural Regions and Perspectives of Green Hydrogen Production,” is led by Dr. Vladislav Zavadskiy and Dr. Gita Revalde. It delves into the crucial balance between water scarcity and the global push for green hydrogen.

Key Findings

• By 2028-2029, rural areas in southern Central Asia, including Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic, will face chronic water shortages due to climate change.
• Central Asia’s renewable energy resources offer a prime opportunity for green hydrogen production, potentially positioning the region as a key player in the hydrogen market without worsening local water shortages.
• The study’s model shows that hydrogen projects can proceed with minimal impact on agricultural water use. The largest project, ‘Hyrasia One’ in Kazakhstan, is near the Caspian Sea, utilizing its abundant saltwater resources.

Impact on Energy and Water Management

The research underscores that leveraging renewable energy can enable sustainable green hydrogen production in Central Asia, balancing the region’s water and energy needs.

Quotes from the Researchers:

“Hydrogen projects can significantly enhance Central Asia’s energy landscape without depleting essential water resources,” said Dr. Vladislav Zavadskiy. “Our study provides a pathway for integrating hydrogen production with renewable energy.”

Dr. Gita Revalde added, “This research highlights the importance of a balanced approach to energy and water management in climate-vulnerable areas.”

This study is published in the proceedings of the 23rd International Scientific Conference ‘Engineering for Rural Development,’ held in Jelgava, Latvia, and in the Journal of Engineering for Rural Development. The full text is available online at https://www.iitf.lbtu.lv/conference/proceedings2024/Papers/TF183.pdf.

(DOI: 10.22616/ERDev.2024.23.TF183)