Long Duration Energy Storage Using Hydrogen in Metal–Organic Frameworks: Opportunities and Challenges

Materials-based H₂ storage plays a critical role in facilitating H₂ as a low-carbon energy carrier, but there remains limited guidance on the technical performance necessary for specific applications. Metal–organic framework (MOF) adsorbents have shown potential in power applications, but need to demonstrate economic promises against incumbent compressed H₂ storage. Herein, we evaluate the potential impact of material properties, charge/discharge patterns, and propose targets for MOFs’ deployment in long-duration energy storage applications including backup, load optimization, and hybrid power. We find that state-of-the-art MOF could outperform cryogenic storage and 350 bar compressed storage in applications requiring ≤8 cycles per year, but need ≥5 g/L increase in uptake to be cost-competitive for applications that require ≥30 cycles per year. Existing challenges include manufacturing at scale and quantifying the economic value of lower-pressure storage. Lastly, future research needs are identified including integrating thermodynamic effects and degradation mechanisms.