Hydrogen fuel cells vs batteries for environmental sustainability
As the global push for decarbonisation accelerates, two technologies are emerging as major players in the race to replace fossil fuels: hydrogen fuel cells and batteries. While both offer pathways to zero-emission energy systems, they come with distinct environmental footprints.
In this article, we explore the sustainability lifecycle of each technology, from raw material sourcing and manufacturing to recyclability and end-of-life impact, to better understand how they compare.
Raw material sourcing: mining vs. production
Battery recycling is increasingly important as EV adoption and portable electronics grow. However, multiple technical, environmental, economic, and regulatory barriers still hinder efficient recycling.
Battery-electric systems, particularly lithium-ion batteries, rely heavily on critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. These materials are often extracted from environmentally sensitive regions, heightening concerns about land degradation and intensive water use.
In contrast, hydrogen fuel cells typically use platinum-group metals as catalysts, which are also resource-intensive to extract but used in much smaller quantities. Hydrogen itself can be produced in various ways.
Currently, most global hydrogen is made from natural gas (grey hydrogen), but the shift to green hydrogen, produced using renewables and electrolysis, can significantly lower its environmental impact. Learn more about hydrogen colours and production methods.
Manufacturing and emissions
Battery production is energy-intensive, with high emissions associated with the mining, refining, and assembly processes. For example, a typical electric vehicle battery can account for up to 74% of the vehicle’s total manufacturing emissions.
Fuel cells also require precision manufacturing, but the emissions footprint can be lower if powered by renewable hydrogen and efficient manufacturing processes. Moreover, hydrogen fuel cells can be modular and scaled more easily to different sizes and uses, making them adaptable to a wide range of low-carbon applications.
Recyclability and circularity
Battery recycling is improving, with companies developing closed-loop systems to recover lithium, cobalt, and other metals. However, battery recycling is still complex, energy-intensive, and not yet widespread enough to handle the upcoming volume of battery waste.
Hydrogen fuel cells are often more recyclable, particularly the metal components such as the platinum catalyst. Fuel cell stacks also tend to have longer lifespans in industrial applications, reducing the frequency of replacement and waste. Many fuel cell systems are designed with serviceability and repurposing in mind, enhancing their long-term sustainability.
Real-world applications of hydrogen fuel cells
- For long-range transport, heavy goods vehicles, and buses, hydrogen offers faster refuelling and better energy density. Explore Intelligent Energy’s fuel cells for buses and trucks.
- In disaster recovery or remote off-grid locations, fuel cells offer reliable back-up power without the limitations of battery storage. See our case study on powering rural communities.
When assessed across the full lifecycle, hydrogen fuel cells offer clear advantages in certain sectors, particularly where durability and power density are non-negotiable.
Want to learn how Intelligent Energy can help you reduce emissions across your operations? Get in touch with our team to explore the right solution for your needs.
FAQs
What is the environmental impact of hydrogen production?
Hydrogen’s carbon footprint varies widely. Green hydrogen, made from renewable energy via electrolysis, is the most sustainable. Blue and grey hydrogen, produced using fossil fuels, carry higher emissions, but are currently more affordable and available. Learn more in our article on green, blue and grey hydrogen production.
Which has better recyclability — fuel cells or batteries?
Battery recycling is improving but still limited, especially for lithium-ion chemistries. Hydrogen fuel cells contain recyclable materials like platinum, stainless steel and membranes, and current systems are being designed for improved end-of-life processing.
Which is better for long-term energy storage and use?
Hydrogen is more suited to long-duration storage and high-energy-demand applications like heavy vehicles or backup power. Batteries are more efficient in short-term, low-power uses like personal electronics and small EVs.
How do lifecycle emissions compare?
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) typically have lower lifecycle emissions in short-range urban use cases, especially when charged with green electricity. Hydrogen fuel cell systems can have lower emissions for applications where battery size, weight or charging time is limiting, such as heavy goods transport or rural off-grid power.
Can hydrogen fuel cells be used in extreme conditions?
Yes, hydrogen fuel cells are effective in low-temperature and remote environments, where battery performance may degrade. They are used in railway backup systems, disaster recovery and off-grid rural settings.