Environmental Studies Past Paper PDF 2024-2025

B M S COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING (An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to VTU, Belagavi) Post Box No.: 1908, Bull Temple Road, Bengaluru – 560 019 DEPARTMENT OF MACHINE LEARNING Academic Year: 2024-20245 Environmental Studies (23...

B M S COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING (An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to VTU, Belagavi) Post Box No.: 1908, Bull Temple Road, Bengaluru – 560 019 DEPARTMENT OF MACHINE LEARNING Academic Year: 2024-20245 Environmental Studies (23CV5HSEVS) WORKING OF HYDROGEN AS A FOSSIL FUEL Submitted by Student Name: Mathias Prajwal D’Souza Branch: AIML USN: 1BM23AI408 Date: Semester & Section: 5 C Total Pages: 10 Student Signature: Valuation Report (to be filled by the faculty) Score: Comments: Faculty In-charge: Prof. Priya V Faculty Signature: with date  TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter No. Title Page No. 1 Introduction 1 Hydropower: An 2 2 Overview Hydropower Technology 3 3 and Design Hydropower Efficiency 4 4 and Optimization Economic Impacts of 5 5 Hydropower Global Hydropower 6 6 Projects Environmental and Social 7 7 Impacts Conclusion 8 EVS REPORT i 2024-25  CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO HYDROELECTRIC POWER 1. Introduction Definition of Hydrogen as a Fuel Hydrogen, often considered the most abundant element in the universe, has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. It can be used in various forms, such as in fuel cells, combustion engines, and power plants. As a clean and efficient energy carrier, hydrogen produces no harmful emissions when consumed, making it a key player in the fight against climate change. Understanding Fossil Fuels and Their Role in Energy Systems Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, have long been the backbone of the global energy supply. These fuels release carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) when burned, contributing to global warming and air pollution. The transition to cleaner energy sources is critical to reducing environmental degradation. The Concept of Hydrogen in the Context of Fossil Fuel Replacement Hydrogen as an energy source can replace fossil fuels by providing a cleaner alternative for energy generation, heating, transportation, and industrial processes. It can be produced through methods such as electrolysis, steam methane reforming (SMR), and biomass gasification, each with varying environmental impacts. Importance of Hydrogen as a Sustainable Energy Source Hydrogen is seen as a critical component of future energy systems due to its versatility, high energy density, and clean output. It offers the potential to decarbonize industries that are difficult to electrify, such as steelmaking, heavy-duty transport, and chemicals production. Fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil have been the primary sources of energy for over a century, providing electricity, heating, transportation, and industrial power. These energy sources are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. While fossil fuels have been integral to modern society's growth, they have significant drawbacks. The burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and particulate matter, all of which contribute to air pollution and the greenhouse effect. Greenhouse gases (GHGs), particularly CO₂, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change. Additionally, fossil fuels are finite resources, and their extraction and combustion often lead to environmental degradation, such as oil spills, deforestation, and habitat loss. As the world confronts the urgent need to combat climate change, the transition away from fossil fuels towards more sustainable energy systems is paramount. Hydrogen, with its potential for clean combustion and versatility as an energy carrier, is seen as a key solution in replacing fossil fuels. EVS REPORT 1 2024-25  CHAPTER 2 Hydropower: An Overview Hydropower has been harnessed since ancient times, with water wheels and mill dams being used to generate mechanical power. The modern era of hydropower began in the late 19th century, when it became a significant source of electricity generation. Hydropower as a Renewable Energy Source Hydropower is a renewable resource that utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. It is often classified as a clean energy source because it does not release carbon dioxide or other harmful pollutants during operation. Global Hydropower Production Trends Globally, hydropower contributes approximately 16% of the world's electricity generation, making it the largest source of renewable energy. Some countries, such as Norway and Brazil, rely on hydropower for the majority of their electricity needs. Comparison between Hydropower and Other Energy Sources Hydropower is considered more reliable and efficient than other renewable sources like solar and wind, as it can provide baseload power. However, its dependence on geographical factors, such as water availability, can limit its implementation in certain regions. Future Trends in Hydropower Development Despite these challenges, the future of hydropower remains promising, with several ongoing trends shaping its development: Small-Scale and Run-of-River Projects: As large-scale projects face environmental scrutiny, smaller hydropower plants, including run-of-river and micro-hydropower systems, are gaining popularity. These projects require less infrastructure, have lower environmental impacts, and can be implemented in more remote locations. Technological Advancements: Innovations in turbine design, environmental mitigation measures, and grid integration are helping increase the efficiency and sustainability of hydropower projects. For example, fish-friendly turbines are being developed to minimize harm to aquatic life, and advanced monitoring technologies are being employed to optimize performance. Hydropower and Energy Storage: Hydropower, particularly pumped storage, is increasingly being integrated into grid management as a solution for energy storage. This helps stabilize grids that rely on intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind. Decentralized and Off-Grid Solutions: In remote areas or developing regions, decentralized hydropower solutions, such as micro-hydro plants, are providing electricity access where traditional infrastructure is lacking. These systems often serve local communities or small-scale industries, contributing to sustainable rural development. EVS REPORT 2 2024-25  CHAPTER 3 Hydropower Technology and Design Basic Principles of Hydropower Generation Hydropower generation operates on a simple but effective principle: converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into mechanical energy, and then into electrical energy. This process involves three key components: 1. Water Source (Reservoir or River): Hydropower plants require a continuous source of flowing water. This can be from a natural river, a reservoir, or even tidal movements in some cases. The water source provides the necessary kinetic energy for the system. 2. Dam or Penstock: In most traditional hydropower plants, a dam is constructed across a river to create a reservoir or to regulate the flow of water. The dam stores the water and controls its release, allowing the potential energy of the water to be converted into kinetic energy as it flows downhill. In run-of-river systems, where no dam is involved, the water flows directly from the river through a penstock, a large pipe that directs the flow of water to the turbine. 3. Turbine: As water flows through the penstock, it strikes the blades of a turbine, causing it to spin. The turbine’s rotating motion converts the kinetic energy of the water into mechanical energy. Different types of turbines are used depending on the size of the project and the flow of water. 4. Generator: The turbine is connected to a generator. As the turbine spins, it turns the generator’s rotor, which produces electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. The generator converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into usable electricity. 5. Transmission System: The electricity produced by the generator is then transmitted through power lines to the grid or to a specific location where it is used. Types of Hydropower Plants 1. Run-of-River Hydropower: o Principle: In a run-of-river system, water is diverted from the river and flows directly into the turbine without the need for a large reservoir or dam. o Design Features: These systems have low environmental impacts compared to traditional hydropower plants because they don’t require the large-scale flooding of land or the disruption of ecosystems. However, their generation capacity is lower because they rely on the natural flow of the river, which can be affected by seasonal variations in water flow. o Applications: Run-of-river hydropower is typically used for smaller-scale power generation in areas with sufficient water flow but limited space for large dams. It is often employed in rural areas or in off-grid systems. o 2. Reservoir Hydropower (Storage Hydropower): o Principle: This type of hydropower relies on a large dam and reservoir to store water. The dam’s height and the volume of water stored in the reservoir determine the potential energy available for generation. o Design Features: The dam creates a large reservoir of water, which can be released in a controlled manner to flow through turbines. Reservoir hydropower plants can be designed to produce power on-demand, making them a reliable source of baseload or EVS REPORT 3 2024-25  CHAPTER 4 Hydrogen Efficiency and Optimization This section explores the efficiency of hydrogen production from fossil fuels and strategies to optimize the process. Hydrogen production is energy-intensive, and improving its efficiency is critical to making it a viable energy option. Here's a breakdown of the key points: Energy Conversion Efficiencies Steam Methane Reforming (SMR): o The most common method for hydrogen production. Converts methane (from natural gas) into hydrogen and CO₂. o Efficiency: Typically, 65-75% but results in significant CO₂ emissions unless combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS). Partial Oxidation of Hydrocarbons (POX): o Used to produce hydrogen from heavier fossil fuels like oil. o Efficiency: Slightly lower than SMR, around 60-70%. Coal Gasification: o Converts coal into syngas (hydrogen and CO), with CO₂ as a byproduct. o Efficiency: Around 50-60%, but highly polluting unless CCS is implemented. Comparison to Renewable Hydrogen (Green Hydrogen): o Electrolysis of water has lower efficiency (~50-60%) but is carbon-free when powered by renewable energy sources. Optimization Techniques Reducing Energy Loss During Production: o Advanced heat recovery systems in SMR and gasification plants can improve energy efficiency. o Integration of renewable electricity to power auxiliary systems in hydrogen plants. Integration of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): o CCS technology can capture up to 90% of CO₂ emissions during hydrogen production. o Optimizing CCS reduces energy penalties and costs. Hydrogen Storage Innovations: o Efficiency in storing hydrogen as a gas (compressed), liquid (cryogenic), or chemically bound (e.g., in ammonia). o Research into lightweight, high-density storage materials like metal hydrides or carbon nanotubes. Transport and Distribution Optimization: o Building hydrogen pipelines with low leakage rates and reducing compression costs. o Decentralized production facilities to minimize transportation energy losses. EVS REPORT 4 2024-25  CHAPTER 5 Economic Impacts of Hydrogen Energy Systems The hydrogen market is expanding rapidly due to the global push for cleaner energy alternatives. Grey hydrogen, produced from fossil fuels without carbon capture, is currently the most cost-effective option but comes with significant environmental costs due to high CO₂ emissions. On the other hand, blue hydrogen, which incorporates carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, is more environmentally friendly but significantly more expensive to produce. Despite these challenges, the hydrogen sector offers substantial economic opportunities, including job creation in production, infrastructure development, and research. However, the high initial costs of building hydrogen infrastructure and the continued reliance on fossil fuels present notable economic challenges. Government support, in the form of subsidies and favorable policies, is essential to make hydrogen systems more economically viable. Additionally, countries with abundant fossil fuel resources and advanced CCS technology could capitalize on the growing demand for hydrogen by becoming major exporters. Over time, advancements in technology and the scaling of blue hydrogen production are expected to reduce costs, enhancing its economic competitiveness in the global energy market. Market Trends: Hydrogen's market is growing rapidly, with increasing demand for energy transition solutions. Fossil fuel-based hydrogen, like blue hydrogen, is seen as a transitional technology. Cost Analysis: Grey Hydrogen: Cheaper but emits significant CO₂. Blue Hydrogen: More expensive due to carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. Economic Opportunities: Large-scale adoption creates jobs in hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and technology research. Boosts industrial competitiveness for regions investing early in hydrogen systems. Challenges: High initial costs for infrastructure and CCS technology. Dependence on fossil fuels poses risks as countries move towards net-zero policies. Government Support: Policies and subsidies are critical to lowering costs and driving investment in hydrogen technology. EVS REPORT 5 2024-25  CHAPTER 6 Global Hydrogen Energy Projects Hydrogen energy projects are being developed worldwide to meet the growing demand for clean and sustainable energy solutions. Several countries are investing in large-scale hydrogen production facilities, focusing on both grey and blue hydrogen derived from fossil fuels. For instance, projects like Shell’s Blue Hydrogen initiative in the Netherlands and Canada’s Hydrogen Strategy emphasize the integration of carbon capture and storage (CCS) to reduce emissions. Regions like Europe, the United States, and Asia are leading in hydrogen adoption, with significant funding and government support to develop infrastructure and technologies. The Middle East, rich in natural gas resources, is emerging as a potential leader in hydrogen exports. Policies, international partnerships, and investments play a crucial role in accelerating the deployment of hydrogen projects globally. Some projects have been highly successful in demonstrating the viability of hydrogen as a major energy carrier, while others have faced challenges such as high costs and infrastructure gaps. These initiatives provide valuable lessons for scaling up hydrogen systems and transitioning towards cleaner energy. Global Investment: Many countries are investing in large-scale hydrogen projects to meet the demand for sustainable energy, with a focus on both grey and blue hydrogen. Notable Projects: Examples include Shell’s Blue Hydrogen initiative in the Netherlands and Canada’s Hydrogen Strategy, which incorporate carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. Regional Leadership: Europe, the US, and Asia are leading in hydrogen development, supported by government funding and policies. Middle East Opportunity: The Middle East, with abundant natural gas resources, is positioning itself as a potential leader in hydrogen exports. Policy Support: International partnerships and government policies play a critical role in driving the growth of hydrogen energy projects globally. EVS REPORT 6 2024-25  CHAPTER 7 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS The environmental and social impacts of hydrogen energy systems, particularly those based on fossil fuels, are significant considerations in their adoption. Here are the key points: 1. Carbon Emissions from Grey Hydrogen: o Grey hydrogen, produced from natural gas through steam methane reforming (SMR), releases substantial CO₂ emissions. o This process is environmentally harmful unless carbon capture and storage (CCS) is integrated. 2. Role of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): o CCS technology can capture up to 90% of the CO₂ emissions from hydrogen production. o By reducing emissions, CCS mitigates the environmental impact of blue hydrogen, which is produced using fossil fuels with CCS. 3. Water Usage: o Hydrogen production, especially through electrolysis (when powered by fossil fuels), requires large amounts of water. o This can stress water resources, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. 4. Land Use and Habitat Disruption: o Large-scale hydrogen production facilities or infrastructure (like pipelines) can require significant land areas. o This may lead to habitat disruption, especially in rural or undeveloped regions. The environmental and social impacts of hydrogen energy, particularly when derived from fossil fuels, play a crucial role in assessing its sustainability. One of the primary concerns is the carbon emissions associated with grey hydrogen production, which comes from natural gas. This process results in significant CO₂ emissions, contributing to climate change. While blue hydrogen offers a cleaner alternative by integrating carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, it still depends on fossil fuels, although CCS can capture a large portion of the CO₂ emissions, reducing its overall environmental footprint. Another issue is the water usage required for hydrogen production, especially in electrolysis processes powered by fossil fuels. Hydrogen production can be water-intensive, which poses a challenge in water- scarce regions, where this resource is already under pressure. Additionally, large-scale hydrogen production and infrastructure—such as plants and pipelines—can require significant land use, potentially disrupting natural habitats and ecosystems, especially in rural or undeveloped areas. EVS REPORT 7 2024-25  CONCLUSION Hydrogen energy, especially when derived from fossil fuels, plays an increasingly important role in the global transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. While hydrogen has the potential to significantly reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels, its production—particularly from natural gas (grey hydrogen)—remains a major source of carbon emissions unless paired with advanced carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, which leads to the rise of blue hydrogen. Despite these challenges, hydrogen remains a promising energy carrier, particularly in hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as heavy industry and transportation. The key to maximizing the potential of hydrogen lies in improving efficiency and optimizing the entire production, storage, and distribution process. Significant strides have been made in hydrogen production technologies, with advancements in both fossil fuel-based (grey and blue) and renewable (green) hydrogen systems. However, fossil-fuel-based hydrogen, while providing a transitional solution, must be paired with CCS to mitigate its environmental impacts. The future of hydrogen will depend largely on the ability to scale up green hydrogen production, which utilizes renewable energy sources to produce hydrogen through electrolysis, offering a truly low-carbon option. From an economic perspective, the growth of hydrogen technologies presents a wide range of opportunities, from job creation to the development of new industries. The adoption of hydrogen energy systems can stimulate investments and infrastructure development, which will drive innovation and lower costs over time. However, the high initial costs associated with hydrogen production and infrastructure, coupled with ongoing reliance on fossil fuels, remain significant challenges that must be addressed. Government support, including subsidies and favourable policies, will be essential in creating a competitive hydrogen market and accelerating the transition to low-carbon energy systems. In conclusion, hydrogen energy, particularly blue hydrogen, holds significant promise as a bridge technology in the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. However, the widespread adoption of hydrogen requires overcoming a range of technological, economic, environmental, and social challenges. By focusing on innovation, optimizing hydrogen systems, and ensuring equitable social impacts, hydrogen could play a pivotal role in shaping a low-carbon global energy landscape. The shift towards green hydrogen, fueled by renewable energy, will ultimately determine whether hydrogen can achieve its full potential as a cornerstone of the sustainable energy systems of the future. EVS REPORT 8 2024-25