🤖 AI Expert Verdict
Hydrogen acts as a versatile energy carrier vital for tackling climate change, especially in sectors like heavy industry and long-distance transport where emissions are hard to abate. While momentum is growing—with 60 governments adopting strategies—faster policy implementation and increased investment are necessary to scale up low-emissions production (using renewables, nuclear, or CCUS) and build the required transport infrastructure like pipelines.
- Versatile energy carrier
- Decarbonizes heavy industry and long-distance transport
- Key solution for long-term energy storage
- Strong governmental support globally
Hydrogen: The Key to Deep Decarbonization
Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier. It helps us solve difficult energy problems. Today, refining and chemical sectors primarily use hydrogen. We produce it using fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. This process creates significant annual CO2 emissions.
Why Low-Emissions Hydrogen Matters
Low-emissions hydrogen is a powerful solution. We produce it with renewable or nuclear energy. Sometimes we use fossil fuels with carbon capture technology. This clean hydrogen helps decarbonize tough sectors. These include heavy industry and long-distance transport. It is hard to reduce emissions here otherwise. Hydrogen also integrates variable renewables into the electricity system. It offers one of few options for storing energy long-term. This means weeks or months of storage.
Current Momentum and Challenges
Momentum for hydrogen is very strong. Sixty governments, including the EU, now have strategies. However, faster action is crucial. We must create demand for clean hydrogen. We also need to unlock new investments. This action will accelerate production scale-up. It will also lower technology costs.
New project announcements keep growing. Yet, only 7% have firm investment decisions. Uncertainty about future demand stops progress. Lack of clear certification and regulation is also a factor. We also need more infrastructure to deliver hydrogen to users. Traditional applications still drive demand. New uses in transport and industry account for less than 0.1% of current demand. This must change rapidly.
Scaling Up Production and Infrastructure
We need rapid scale-up of low-emissions hydrogen production. This goal aligns with the Net Zero Emissions (NZE) Scenario. By 2030, we require 560 GW of electrolysers. This demands a quick scale-up of manufacturing. It also requires significant new renewable capacity. China leads in deployment right now. The US and EU lead in policy action.
Pipelines move hydrogen efficiently over short distances. About 5,000 km of pipelines exist globally. Europe is currently leading infrastructure development. The European Hydrogen Backbone is a large pipeline network plan. Germany plans a 9,040 km network by 2025. China also started construction on a 737 km pipeline. The NZE Scenario demands 45,000 km of pipelines by 2035. Long-distance transport needs shipping solutions. Shipping hydrogen as ammonia or methanol is often cheaper.
Take Action on Climate Change
We all play a part in promoting clean energy. You can learn more about how to make a difference. Read Our Blog for the latest climate solutions. If you want to support sustainable products directly, please Shop Our Products today. We champion low-emission alternatives for a healthier planet.
Reference: Inspired by content from https://www.iea.org/energy-system/low-emission-fuels/hydrogen.
