Changes and Developments in Hydrogen Energy as Seen in TV Programs

Hydrogen energy, which has attracted attention in recent years, has the following two major advantages. Hydrogen as a fuel has multiple production methods and does not depend on petroleum. Only water is produced during combustion, and carbon dioxide is not emitted. For these reasons, hydrogen energy is considered as a new energy for the next generation especially in Japan, and both companies and governments are rapidly putting effort into dissemination. However, hydrogen used as a fuel is a flammable gas essentially. Hydrogen also ignites when energy such as static electricity is applied in a state of being mixed with oxygen at a constant concentration. In addition, hydrogen is often marketed and distributed as high-pressure gas in order to reduce its volume. Therefore, when the gas container is heated, the volume of hydrogen contained therein suddenly increases and the container withstands internal pressure. There is a possibility of explosion without breaking. In fact, according to The High Pressure Gas Safety Institute of Japan, 69 accidents have happened involving high pressure hydrogen gas in 2011-2014 [1]. Thus, in order to spread hydrogen energy, it is indispensable to prepare means and regulations for safely handling hydrogen. Herein, changes and developments in hydrogen energy as seen in TV programs about hydrogen energy and fuel cells have been investigated by not only browsing NHK (Nihon Hoso Kyokai)’s program archives but also other database or materials. In addition, by comparing with other TV programs about a famous fire accident in Japan, characteristics of TV programs as will be discussed.