Comparison of the costs of producing hydrogen by electrolysis and by nuclear-based thermochemistry

Procedures for manufacturing hydrogen are reviewed with attention to costs and state of technological development. It is concluded that, at present, the most economical way to produce hydrogen is to establish large-scale facilities for processing hydrocarbons (natural gas). Eventually, the off-peak production of electric energy at nuclear plants might make electrolysis a competitive method. Factors which will determine if thermochemical means will ultimately become more economical than electrolysis are considered. Requirements for the development of large hydrogen-producing facilities are examined.