Green hydrogen as an energy source in the mining sector

Abstract

Studies on alternative energy sources suggest that green hydrogen through electrolysis is a sustainable option that expands the supply of fuels for various industrial applications. The objective of this review is to promote the implementation of an energy system based on green hydrogen in the mining sector, in order to reduce costs and improve the economic stability of companies in the sector. A total of 242 reviewed articles were selected from the SCOPUS database, using the PICOC method, and covering the period between 2019 and 2024. Eighteen studies were included that present relevant information, evidencing that the adoption of green hydrogen, together with other alternative energy sources, will have a positive and sustainable impact on the mining sector in the long term. The results of the review indicate that the implementation of green hydrogen is mainly concentrated in emerging countries in Asia and Europe, where key aspects such as efficiency and costs associated with its use in fuel cells are emphasized. These systems leverage technologies such as electrolysis, ionization and other biofuels, complemented by advanced tools such as simulation software, real-world methodologies and economic evaluations. Such approaches present significant improvement opportunities for companies that choose to adopt this technology. In conclusion, green hydrogen in the mining industry emerges as a viable and promising solution that could generate greater financial stability, cost reduction and the possibility of integrating other biofuels, with yields ranging from 19% to 25%.