Exploring a Sustainable Energy Pathway: Green Hydrogen Production from Sewage

Abstract

Wastewater management is a critical environmental issue, as urbanization and industrial activities generate significant volumes of sewage that pose risks to public health and ecosystems. Traditional treatment methods often rely on energy-intensive processes that can lead to greenhouse gas emissions and inadequate resource recovery. Recently, the management of water and wastewater is gaining attention worldwide as a way of conserving the natural resources on the planet. As the demand for clean energy sources rises, converting organic waste into hydrogen emerges as a compelling solution to both energy production and waste management issues. The wastewater industry plays a pivotal role in this green transition, significantly advancing efforts toward decarbonization. This integrated approach not only supports renewable energy strategies but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and fosters circular economy practices. In the Muscat Governorate, wastewater generation increased dramatically from 66,320,737.44 m³/year in 2020 to 77,146,478.50 m³/year in 2023. This substantial rise underscores the urgent need for effective and innovative management solutions to address the growing volume of sewage and its associated environmental challenges. This paper investigates the feasibility of bioremediation systems for wastewater treatment alongside solar-assisted electrolysis for green hydrogen production. The study specifically aims to assess the efficiency and viability of electrolysis through a comprehensive laboratory experiment designed to achieve a production capacity of 0.5 kg of hydrogen, utilizing just 9 liters of water. Additionally, the paper will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this approach, along with the results and challenges, as well as outline future work necessary to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of these integrated approaches. By exploring this framework, the research seeks to contribute to innovative solutions for sustainable energy and improved wastewater management practices, highlighting the potential for synergy between these two critical areas.