Hydrogen to Power: Exploring Current Developments and Future Challenges

ABSTRACT Various energy storage systems (ESSs), including hydrogen energy storage (HES), are essential for addressing the challenges of integrating renewable energy resources into power systems, microgrids, and smart grids. They also facilitate the transition toward a cleaner and more resilient energy future by providing a range of services, such as intermittency management, grid stability and resiliency enhancement, and demand‐side management. Unlike other ESS, HES can be utilized for a wide range of applications, including power generation, transportation (fuel cell vehicles), industrial processes, and heating, which makes them valuable assets in the transition toward energy sustainability. This article reviews the potential of HES for advancing electric power systems by exploring the diverse applications and uses of hydrogen in the ecosystem. It also critically identifies the challenges of integrating HES into power and smart grid networks. A comprehensive assessment of the literature concludes that the utilization of hydrogen in the power sector remains a significant challenge owing to several technical and nontechnical issues, including hydrogen storage, efficient and durable materials, thermal management, rare‐earth metal depletion, infrastructure, and policy challenges. On the basis of the identified challenges, this review outlines recommendations for decision‐makers and researchers to enhance the utilization of HES in power sector applications. Key Points This study critically identifies the challenges of integrating hydrogen energy systems into power generation networks by comprehensively reviewing the relevant literature. This study explores the role of hydrogen and various technologies related to hydrogen utilization in the power sector. This study outlines recommendations and provides valuable insights into technological and socio‐economic aspects of transitioning toward a carbon‐neutral economy.