The goal of this project is to present a detailed analysis on the feasibility of a hydrogen economy existing in the United States. While hydrogen technoloigies are still in their infancy, the enormous potential has already been realized. First, we examined the various types of hydrogen production that are availabile or in development, and compared the advantages and disadvantages. Then, by providing an in-depth overview of the safety and environmental advantages of hydrogen gas, as well as a fiscal analysis based on projections by top experts in the field, we proved that the benefits heavily outweigh the consequences. On top of that, we also examined the importance of consumer appeal and how hydrogen needs to be marketed properly in order for it to really work. Based on all of our research, we concluded that, as with any new emerging technology, for hydrogen to take off, it will need a huge backing from our government and key organizations, as well as an extensive framework of guidelines and milestones to be laid out and adhered to.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Barbour, Richard Brian
• Beckwith, Paul G.

Subject

• Industry
• Sustainability
• Environment
• Energy

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 06C022I

Keyword

• Sustainable development--Economic aspects
• Sustainability

Advisor

• Bergendahl, John Andrew

Year

• 2006

Date created

• 2006-01-01

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2021-01-28