Path to Product: Sustainable Hydrogen Fuel Cell Supply Chains

Hydrogen fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity with only water and heat as by-products, enabling zero-tailpipe emission mobility and stationary power applications. However, climate benefits depend heavily on how hydrogen is produced and sourced.

Key drivers include platinum processing emissions, PFSA membrane production, and high-temperature ceramic processing. Addressing these hotspots is critical for lowering life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Grey hydrogen has an embodied impact of over 90 g CO₂-eq/MJ, while renewable-powered electrolysis can cut this to under 20 g CO₂-eq/MJ. The production method is often the single largest contributor to a fuel cell’s carbon footprint.

Concentrated sourcing of platinum, rare earth elements, and ceramic materials in a few high-risk countries creates vulnerability. Regional production silos can also increase delays, emissions, and costs.

EU and UK frameworks now demand lifecycle GHG tracking, traceability, and compliance with strict emissions thresholds. New measures like CBAM and the Critical Raw Materials Act will further affect sourcing and recyclability.

XYCLE delivers granular, region-specific life cycle assessments, identifying high-impact areas and enabling actionable strategies to meet environmental and compliance goals.