Laura Restrepo | UC Davis

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Presentation Description

Hydrogen (H2) has emerged as a pivotal element in the quest to decarbonize transportation, offering adaptability and potential as a clean energy carrier while mitigating particulate matter emissions, thus bolstering public health and environmental integrity. Recently, the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) has earmarked $7 million USD to establish seven regional hydrogen hubs (H2Hubs) across the U.S. This initiative aims to cultivate a comprehensive network of clean hydrogen producers, consumers, and interconnected infrastructure, thereby propelling a nationwide transition towards sustainable energy practices.

This research assesses the environmental advantages of substituting diesel with hydrogen in heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) within California and Texas, with a focus on reducing greenhouse gases in these regions. It scrutinizes fuel production, distribution, and refueling stations scenarios aligned with the projected capacities of the H2Hubs by 2030, considering the incorporation of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Currently, these hubs are in the nascent phase post-selection, concentrating on validating the technological and financial feasibility of the H2Hub concept. Given the preliminary stage, the study incorporates assumptions about H2 production and vehicle technologies implemented in these hubs, while actively seeking updated information about the H2Hubs' plans to refine the environmental assessment accuracy for the transition to hydrogen fuel in HDVs in these regions.

To conduct the study, precise production emission inventory data, H2 leakage rates, and diesel vehicle emissions data are indispensable. While the Argonne National Laboratory's Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) model, GREET, serves as a foundational tool, its lack of specific provisions for setting H2 leakage rates necessitated a comprehensive literature review. This review involved sourcing to identify and quantify leakage rates across different stages of the H2 supply chain, including production and distribution. By incorporating these losses into the analysis, the study offers a comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact associated with transitioning to hydrogen in HDVs.

The findings of this study are poised to reveal significant insights and implications for H2 adoption in diesel vehicle substitution within California and Texas. Thorough the analysis of LCA pathways, this research aims to provide crucial insights into the feasibility and sustainability of transitioning towards hydrogen-powered transportation. These findings extend beyond the scope of this study, offering valuable guidance for stakeholders and policymakers as we collectively navigate towards a more sustainable future.

Speaker Biography

Laura Restrepo (born in 1998) is a dynamic mechanical engineer and a passionate Master's student enrolled in the Transportation Technology and Policy program at University of California, Davis (UC Davis). With a solid foundation in engineering coupled with hands-on experience in the field, Laura brings a unique blend of technical expertise and practical insight to her academic pursuits.

With two years of experience in the engineering field under her belt, Laura has actively contributed to real-world projects, gaining firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the industry. It was during this time that she participated in the first hydrogen pilot for a bus in Colombia—an experience that ignited her passion for clean energy solutions and set her on a trajectory towards academic excellence.

Motivated by her involvement in the groundbreaking H2 pilot project, Laura was inspired to enhance her academic skills and deepen her understanding of clean energy technologies. This drive led her to pursue a Master's degree at UC Davis, where she is currently engaged in cutting-edge research focused on advancing the transition to clean energy, with a particular emphasis on hydrogen as a sustainable fuel source.

Laura's research endeavors encompass a wide range of topics, including the exploration of clean fuels, analysis of H2 leakage and its environmental impacts, examination of decarbonization policies, and the development of H2 implementation pathways. Her academic journey is guided by a fervent desire to contribute meaningfully to the global effort towards a more sustainable future.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Laura actively engages in various extracurricular activities and initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the clean energy and transportation technology sectors. She is deeply passionate about leveraging her expertise to address pressing environmental challenges and drive innovation in pursuit of a cleaner, greener world.

Co-presenters

Lewis M. Fulton
UC Davis

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