Green Hydrogen – Impact Hydrogens HyCooker
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If you haven’t got at least one of your eggs in the green hydrogen basket, then you are at serious risk of being left behind. Green Hydrogen is being used in almost every industry, big and small, creating chances for global companies to build Hydrogen Valleys in places with lots of resources. In many cases, these areas are found in developing countries. Here, green hydrogen projects can greatly aid in both sustainable and economic development by involving local communities.
How, you ask? It’s in the small things.
Many rural communities across the globe still cook over wood and coal fires, which emit CO2. This method of heat generation aggravates the climate crisis, generating significant greenhouse gases, causing chronic health issues, and gender inequality. Women are burdened with the labour-intensive task of collecting firewood daily, which impacts their ability to develop their skills and contribute to economic independence.
Impact Hydrogen, a trailblazer in the development of new (small-scale) green hydrogen technology, has collaborated with several partners to create what they call the HyCooker (Prototype can be viewed here). This revolutionary cooking device is powered by the natural gas, green hydrogen, making it a carbon-neutral cooking solution. This innovative device is in its pilot phase and is likely to look and function differently in the months to come. Green Hydrogen is being used in almost every industry, big and small, creating chances for global companies to build Hydrogen hubs in places with lots of resources.
One could potentially see a variety of HyCookers, all slightly different, each tailored to a community’s unique local cooking customs and practices. This is where Impact Hydrogen’s mission goes beyond mere product development. Their goal is to keep hydrogen production in-house, ensuring that at the heart of its production lies sustainable local economic growth and development, making green hydrogen valuable for businesses but end-users as well. This manufacturing approach aligns with the company’s commitment to working collaboratively with the communities involved in the manufacturing process.
“Our overarching goal is to establish a sustainable value chain within the region or country where the HyCooker will be deployed.
This approach not only helps to keep the cost of the HyCooker down but also creates opportunities for training and employment” said Impact Hydrogen’s Project Manager, Terry Green.
Implementing the HyCooker into developing communities is ultimately aimed at improving quality of life. The HyCooker has the potential to empower communities, and perhaps entire countries through the development of the local infrastructure. This will have a domino effect on social progress and the fostering of economic opportunities. Employment opportunities range from manufacturing, to transport, to distribution, and finally to storage.
Whilst the potential value of the HyCooker is clear, several challenges come with the eventual rollout of the product. Cultural adaptation emerges as a significant hurdle. Introducing the cooker into rural communities requires careful consideration and consistent community engagement for the technology to be effectively adopted.
Creatures of Habit
Humans are infamously resistant to change, even when it has the potential to significantly improve our lives. Integrating the HyCooker into communities in developing nations is not going to be an easy task, however, Impact Hydrogen appears prepared to face this challenge head-on. Their solution is focused on active listening, education, and community collaboration.
“Our team conducts a thorough feasibility study, examining current cooking practices, and environmental conditions, and, crucially, gathering insights
into end-users’ preferences. It’s essential for end-users to be actively involved in this process to ensure that the design and functionality meet their needs.”
No more fire, but green hydrogen is still a fire hazard
Introducing a new cooking method involves addressing potential risks, especially when dealing with a substance as novel as hydrogen. Impact Hydrogen places a strong emphasis on safety measures, considering factors such as the colour and smell of the flame, automatic shut-off if the flame extinguishes, device stability, and temperature management. To ensure a seamless transition, the rollout of HyCookers is planned to be accompanied by comprehensive training programs, empowering end-users with the knowledge and confidence to operate and maintain the devices safely.
The HyCooker stands as a symbol of innovation and progress in the renewable energy and sustainability industry. As Impact Hydrogen continues to pioneer the use of green hydrogen in cooking, the HyCooker represents a significant and hopeful step towards a future where communities worldwide can enjoy cost-effective, clean, and sustainable cooking experiences.
To make this project a reality, Impact Hydrogen is looking for €100 000 in investment. The team is looking to partner with a number of organisations and institutions including but not limited to; investors, local government agencies, community leaders, learning institutions, renewable energy organisations, green hydrogen producers and storage companies, seaports, and manufacturers specialising in cookers or burners.
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