Abstract:
In the context of achieving the "dual-carbon" strategy in China, hydrogen energy will play a bridging and supporting role in the future energy transition. As a promising green energy technology, renewable energy electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen has attracted widespread attention. China has abundant offshore wind energy resources; however, there are currently challenges in grid connection, transmission, and high costs. Considering the high investment and production costs of seawater desalination and purification, as well as the complex treatment processes involved, the direct electrolysis of seawater for hydrogen production offers the potential to overcome the limitations of large-scale hydrogen production water sources. It can also address the challenges of transmitting renewable energy from deep-sea locations and the high on-site hydrogen production costs, resulting in significant economic and social benefits. This article reviews the development of seawater electrolysis technology, compares several existing electrolysis methods for hydrogen production, discusses the current challenges and opportunities, and provides an outlook on the future of the seawater electrolysis hydrogen production industry. Taking an offshore oil and gas company as an example, it explores the possibilities for energy enterprises to promote the integration of offshore wind power and seawater electrolysis technology on an industrial scale. It also suggests measures to reduce costs, avoid homogenous competition, and develop distinctive technologies, including improving the layout of offshore wind power facilities, developing seawater electrolysis technology, enhancing hydrogen transportation and storage capabilities, and achieving coordinated development of offshore green energy islands.