Evaluating potential supply chains for hydrogen as aviation fuel on the Swedish west coast: A quantitative and qualitative study in how hydrogen can potentially be distributed to airports to supply hydrogen-based aircraft

Abstract

Aviation is one of the main polluters within the transport sector and is continuously growing. To be able to meet environmental goals and at the same time fulfill societal demands for transport, hydrogen may be used as an alternative fuel to lower emissions, but research into infrastructure is needed. This thesis uses two methods to quantitatively and qualitatively investigate the potential of different supply chains to supply aircraft with green hydrogen, by conducting a techno-economic analysis and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders. The results of this study show that a transition to hydrogen in aviation is believed to be feasible by stakeholders, and synergetic effects along the Swedish west coast are expected. Centrally produced alternatives are found to be the cheapest alternative early on when volumes are low, while on-site production of hydrogen emerges as the cheapest alternative when demand increases. The results can be used to form an understanding of future airport fuel supply chain planning.