Policy & Socio-Economics

With the question of ‘can short messages be effective in increasing public support for a complex new technology (hydrogen)?‘ this study uses a representative national survey in Australia to analyze the differences and variations in subjective support for hydrogen in response to four differently framed short messages. The findings of this study show that short messages can increase social acceptance but the effects depend on how strongly the message is framed in terms of its alignment with either an economic or environmental values framework. Furthermore the effects depend on the social and cultural context of the receiver of the message.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has reaffirmed the importance of scaling up renewable energy to decarbonise Europe’s economy while rapidly reducing its exposure to foreign fossil fuel suppliers. Therefore the question of sources of flexibility to support a fully decarbonised European energy system is becoming even more critical in light of a renewable-dominated energy system. We developed and used a Pan-European energy system model to systematically assess and quantify sources of flexibility to meet deep decarbonisation targets. The electricity supply sector and electricity-based end-use technologies are crucial in achieving deep decarbonisation. Other low-carbon energy sources like biomethane hydrogen synthetic e-fuels and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage will also play a role. To support a fully decarbonised European energy system by 2050 both temporal and spatial flexibility will be needed. Spatial flexibility achieved through investments in national electricity networks and cross-border interconnections is crucial to support the aggressive roll-out of variable renewable energy sources. Cross-border trade in electricity is expected to increase and in deep decarbonisation scenarios the electricity transmission capacity will be larger than that of natural gas. Hydrogen storage and green hydrogen production will play a key role in providing traditional inter-seasonal flexibility and intraday flexibility will be provided by a combination of electrical energy storage hydrogen-based storage solutions (e.g. liquid H2 and pressurised storage) and hybrid heat pumps. Hydrogen networks and storage will become more critical as we move towards the highest decarbonisation scenario. Still the need for natural gas networks and storage will decrease substantially.

The import of hydrogen and derivatives forms part of many national strategies and is fundamental to achieving climate protection targets. This paper provides an overview and technical comparison of import pathways for hydrogen and derivatives in terms of efficiency technological maturity and development and construction times with a focus on the period up to 2030. The import of hydrogen via pipeline has the highest system efficiency at 57–67 % and the highest technological maturity with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 8–9. The import of ammonia and methanol via ship and of SNG via pipeline shows efficiencies in the range of 39–64 % and a technological maturity of TRL 7 to 9 when using point sources. Liquid hydrogen LOHC and Fischer-Tropsch products have the lowest efficiency and TRL in comparison. The use of direct air capture (DAC) reduces efficiency and TRL considerably. Reconversion of the derivatives to hydrogen is also associated with high losses and is not achievable for all technologies on an industrial scale up to 2030. In the short to medium term import routes for derivatives that can utilise existing infrastructures and mature technologies are the most promising for imports. In the long term the most promising option is hydrogen via pipelines.

The topic of energy islands is currently a focal point in the push for the energy transition. An ambitious project in the North Sea aims to build an offshore wind-powered electrolyser for green hydrogen production. Power-to-X (PtX) is a process of converting renewable electricity into hydrogen-based energy carriers such as natural gas liquid fuels and chemicals. PtH2 represents a subset of PtX wherein hydrogen is the resultant green energy from the conversion process. Many uncertainties surround PtH2 plants affecting the economic success of the investment and making the price of hydrogen and the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of this technology uncompetitive. Several studies have analysed PtH2 layouts to identify the hydrogen price without considering how component capacities and external inputs affect the breakeven price. Unlike previous works this paper investigates component capacity dependencies under variables such as wind and hydrogen demand shape for dedicated/non-dedicated system layouts. To this end the techno-economic analysis finds the breakeven price optimising the components to reach the lowest selling price. Results show that the hydrogen price can reach 2.2 €/kg for a non-dedicated system for certain combinations of maximum demand and electrolyser capacity. Furthermore the LCOH analysis revealed that the offshore wind electrolyser system is currently uncompetitive with hydrogen production from carbon-based technologies but is competitive with renewable technologies. The sensitivity analysis reveals the green electricity price in the non-dedicated case for which a dedicated system has a lower optimum hydrogen price. The price limit for the dedicated case is 116 €/MWh.

Hydrogen is receiving increasing attention to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors such as carbon intensive industries and long-distance transport with the ultimate goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net-zero. However limited knowledge exists so far on the socio-economic and environmental impacts for countries moving towards green hydrogen. Here we analyse the macroeconomic impacts both direct and indirect in terms of GDP growth employment generation and GHG emissions of green hydrogen production in Switzerland. The results are first presented in gross terms for the construction and operation of a new green hydrogen industry considering that all the produced hydrogen is allocated to passenger cars (final demand). We find that for each kg of green hydrogen produced the operational phase creates 6.0 5.9 and 9.5 times more GDP employment and GHG emissions respectively compared to the construction phase (all values in gross terms). Additionally the net impacts are calculated by assuming replacement of diesel by green hydrogen as fuel for passenger cars. We find that green hydrogen contributes to a higher GDP and employment compared to diesel while reducing GHG emissions. For instance in all the three cases namely ‘Equal Cost’ ‘Equal Energy’ and ‘Equal Service’ we find that a green hydrogen industry generates around 106% 28% and 45% higher GDP respectively; 163% 43% and 65% more full-time equivalent jobs respectively; and finally 45% 18% and 29% lower GHG emissions respectively compared to diesel and other industries. Finally the methodology developed in this study can be extended to other countries using country-specific data.

Hydrogen-fuelled technologies for home heating and cooking may provide a low-carbon solution for decarbonising parts of the global housing stock. For the transition to transpire the attitudes and perceptions of consumers must be factored into policy making efforts. However empirical studies are yet to explore potential levels of consumer heterogeneity regarding domestic hydrogen acceptance. In response this study explores a wide spectrum of consumer responses towards the prospect of hydrogen homes. The proposed spectrum is conceptualised in terms of the ‘domestic hydrogen acceptance matrix’ which is examined through a nationally representative online survey conducted in the United Kingdom. The results draw attention to the importance of interest and engagement in environmental issues knowledge and awareness of renewable energy technologies and early adoption potential as key drivers of domestic hydrogen acceptance. Critically strategic measures should be taken to convert hydrogen scepticism and pessimism into hope and optimism by recognising the multidimensional nature of consumer acceptance. To this end resources should be dedicated towards increasing the observability and trialability of hydrogen homes in proximity to industrial clusters and hubs where the stakes for consumer acceptance are highest. Progress towards realising a net-zero society can be supported by early stakeholder engagement with the domestic hydrogen acceptance matrix.

Widespread use of hydrogen and hydrogen-based fuels as energy carriers in society may enable the gradual replacement of fossil fuels by renewable energy sources. Although the development and deployment of the associated technologies and infrastructures represent a considerable bottleneck it is generally acknowledged that neither the technical feasibility nor the economic viability alone will determine the extent of the future use of hydrogen as an energy carrier. Public perception beliefs awareness and knowledge about hydrogen will play a significant role in the further development of the hydrogen economy. To this end the present study examines public perception and awareness of hydrogen in Norway. The approach adopted entailed an open-ended question examining spontaneous associations with the term ‘hydrogen’. The question was fielded to 2276 participants in Wave 25 of the Norwegian Citizen Panel (NCP) an on-line panel that derives random samples from the general population registry. The analysis focused on classifying the responses into negative associations (i.e. barriers towards widespread implementation of hydrogen in society) neutral associations (e.g. basic facts) and positive associations (i.e. drivers towards widespread implementation of hydrogen in society). Each of the 2194 responses were individually assessed by five researchers. The majority of the responses highlighted neutral associations using words such as ‘gas’ ‘water’ and ‘element’. When considering barriers vs. drivers the overall responses tend towards positive associations. Many respondents perceive hydrogen as a clean and environmentally friendly fuel and hydrogen technologies are often associated with the future. The negative sentiments were typically associated with words such as ‘explosive’ ‘hazardous’ and ‘expensive’. Despite an increase in the mentioning of safety-related properties relative to a previous study in the same region the frequency of such references was rather low (4%). The responses also reveal various misconceptions such as hydrogen as a prospective ‘source’ of clean energy.

Rising population and rapid development in Africa have led to growing energy demands that exceed current supply underscoring the urgent need for expanded and reliable energy access. As the global agenda shifts toward sustainability integrating renewable energy sources presents a viable pathway to address these shortages. This study explores the energy landscape policies and transition strategies of five Southern African countries using Multi-Level Perspective theory and energy systems analysis to examine the dynamics of their energy transitions. Findings highlight the significant potential of green hydrogen solar wind and hydropower to supplement conventional fuels especially in energy-intensive sectors while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate impacts. The application of Multi-Level Perspective theory underscores the importance of managing interactions between niche innovations existing socio-technical regimes and broader landscape pressures to support systemic transformation. The transition to renewable energy will also impact the future of coal mining shaped by policy frameworks resource distribution technological developments and market trends. However several persistent barriers must be overcome these include limited access to energy high capital costs poverty political and economic instability regulatory inefficiencies and gaps in technical expertise. Achieving a successful and inclusive energy transition in Southern Africa will require strategic planning policy alignment stakeholder engagement and targeted support for vulnerable sectors. Ensuring that the process is sustainable equitable and just is essential to realizing long-term regional energy security and economic resilience.

Integrating hydrogen into energy systems presents challenges involving social dynamics among stakeholders beyond technical considerations. A gap exists in understanding how these dynamics influence the deployment of hydrogen technologies and infrastructure particularly in infrastructure development and market demand for widespread adoption. In the Netherlands despite ambitious strategies and investments comprehensive explanations of social dynamics’ impact on integration processes and market development are lacking. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the hydrogen value chain and stakeholder interactions in the Dutch hydrogen sector. A literature review highlights system integration challenges and the need for decentralized coordination and cross-sector collaboration. Using the Dutch energy grid and its hydrogen initiatives as a case study social network analysis and semi-structured interviews are applied to analyze over 60 hydrogen initiatives involving more than 340 stakeholders. Initiatives are categorized into large-scale centralized and decentralized local types based on scale and stakeholder involvement allowing targeted analysis of stakeholder interactions in different contexts. Findings reveal that centralized networks may limit innovation due to concentrated influence while decentralized networks encourage innovation but require better coordination. These insights guide strategic planning and policymaking in hydrogen energy initiatives aiming to enhance scalability and efficiency of hydrogen technologies for sustainable energy solutions.

The central role of hydrogen in the EU’s decarbonization strategy has increased the importance of critical raw materials. To address this the EU has taken legislative steps including the 2023 Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) to ensure a stable supply. Using a leader–follower Stackelberg game framework this study analyzes CRM market dynamics integrating CRMA compliance through rules on sourcing and stockpiling value chain resilience via the inclusion of supply diversification strategies and geopolitical influences by modeling exporter behaviors and trade dependencies. Results highlight the potential for strategic behavior by major exporters stressing the benefits of diversifying export sources and maintaining strategic stockpiles to stabilize supply. The findings provide insights into the EU’s efforts to secure CRM supplies key to achieving decarbonization goals and fostering a sustainable energy transition. Future research should explore alternative cost-reduction strategies mitigate exporter market power and evaluate the implications for pricing mechanisms market outcomes and consumer welfare

Green hydrogen is expected to be traded globally in future greenhouse gas neutral energy systems. However there is still a lack of temporally- and spatially-explicit cost-potentials for green hydrogen considering the full process chain which are necessary for creating effective global strategies. Therefore this study provides such detailed cost-potentialcurves for 28 selected countries worldwide until 2050 using an optimizing energy systems approach based on open-field photovoltaics (PV) and onshore wind. The results reveal huge hydrogen potentials (>1500 PWhLHV/a) and 79 PWhLHV/a at costs below 2.30 EUR/kg in 2050 dominated by solar-rich countries in Africa and the Middle East. Decentralized PVbased hydrogen production even in wind-rich countries is always preferred. Supplying sustainable water for hydrogen production is needed while having minor impact on hydrogen cost. Additional costs for imports from democratic regions are only total 7% higher. Hence such regions could boost the geostrategic security of supply for greenhouse gas neutral energy systems.

This perspective article delves into the critical role of hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier in the context of the ongoing global energy transition. Hydrogen with its potential to decarbonize various sectors has emerged as a key player in achieving decarbonization and energy sustainability goals. This article provides an overview of the current state of hydrogen technology its production methods and its applications across diverse industries. By exploring the challenges and opportunities associated with hydrogen integration we aim to shed light on the pathways toward achieving a sustainable hydrogen economy. Additionally the article underscores the need for collaborative efforts among policymakers industries and researchers to overcome existing hurdles and unlock the full potential of hydrogen in the transition to a low-carbon future. Through a balanced analysis of the present landscape and future prospects this perspective article aims to contribute valuable insights to the discourse surrounding hydrogen’s role in the global energy transition.

Scaling up clean hydrogen supply in the near future is critical to achieving China’s hydrogen development target. This study established an electrolytic hydrogen development mechanism considering the generation mix and operation optimization of power systems with access to hydrogen. Based on the incremental cost principle we quantified the provincial and national clean hydrogen production cost performance levels in 2030. The results indicated that this mechanism could effectively reduce the production cost of clean hydrogen in most provinces with a national average value of less than 2 USD·kg−1 at the 40-megaton hydrogen supply scale. Provincial cooperation via power transmission lines could further reduce the production cost to 1.72 USD·kg−1. However performance is affected by the potential distribution of hydrogen demand. From the supply side competitiveness of the mechanism is limited to clean hydrogen production while from the demand side it could help electrolytic hydrogen fulfil a more significant role. This study could provide a solution for the ambitious development of renewables and the hydrogen economy in China.

This research examines potential uses of hydrogen as an alternative energy source in Indonesia. Hydrogen presents a more environmentally friendly energy alternative with markedly reduced greenhouse gas emissions leading the Indonesian government to align its interests with the worldwide excitement for hydrogen-based energy transitions within the sustainable development context. Nevertheless despite its intriguing potential as an alternative fuel for transportation industry and power generation pilot programs have demonstrated that hydrogen energy remains expensive and demands substantial advancements in technology. This study used a qualitative methodology incorporating documentary analysis semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions within the actor-network theory framework aimed to investigate the current positioning of hydrogen energy in Indonesia’s policy pathways and to examine its potential and challenge. The findings indicate two primary insights: firstly Indonesia’s energy transformation is presently centered on formulating action plans and regulatory frameworks with hydrogen seen as one of the proposed alternatives. The investigation of hydrogen’s current progress through the actor-network theory framework has yielded two separate actor networks: the proponent network consisting of the national government and the national oil company and the opposing network which encompasses academics businesses and industries.

The urgent need to tackle climate change drives the research on new technologies to help the transition of energy systems. Hydrogen is under significant consideration by many countries as a means to reach zero-carbon goals. Turkey has also started to develop hydrogen projects. In this study the role of hydrogen in Turkey’s energy system is assessed through energy modeling using the cost optimization analytical tool Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS). The potential effects of hydrogen blending into the natural gas network in the Turkish energy system have been displayed by scenario development. The hydrogen is produced via electrolysis using renewable electricity. As a result by using hydrogen a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions was observed; however the accumulated capital investment value increased. Furthermore it was shown that hydrogen has the potential to reduce Turkey’s energy import dependency by decreasing natural gas demand.

Green hydrogen is often promoted as a key facilitator for the clean energy transition but its implementation raises concerns around energy justice. This paper examines the socio-political and techno-economic challenges that green hydrogen projects may pose to the three tenets of energy justice: distributive procedural and recognition justice. From a socio-political perspective the risk of neocolonial resource extraction uneven distribution of benefits exclusion of local communities from decision-making and disregard for indigenous rights and cultures threaten all three justice tenets. Techno-economic factors such as water scarcity land disputes and resource-related conflicts in potential production hotspots further jeopardise distributive and recognition justice. The analysis framed by an adapted PEST model reveals that while green hydrogen holds promise for sustainable development its implementation must proactively address these justice challenges. Failure to do so could perpetuate injustices exploitation and marginalisation of vulnerable communities undermining the sustainability goals it aims to achieve. The paper highlights the need for inclusive and equitable approaches that respect local sovereignty integrate diverse stakeholders and ensure fair access and benefit-sharing. Only by centring justice considerations can the transition to green hydrogen catalyse positive social change and realise its full potential as a driver of sustainable energy systems.

This week’s episode is a discussion between EAH hosts Patrick Molloy Alicia Eastman and Chris Jackson. The team cover the current status of hydrogen regulation innovation financing markets and consolidation. Hanging over most conversations in the decarbonization or future fuels space is the perpetual question: When will investors actually step up with significant capital to help companies make it through the development desert instead of letting promising companies languish in the double dunes of despair? There has been a lot of talk but not a lot of action. Listen to the team unpack recent developments and hopes for the future.

The podcast can be found on their website.

Tunisia's rapid industrial expansion and population growth have created a pressing energy deficit despite the country's significant yet largely untapped renewable energy potential. This study addressed this challenge by developing a comprehensive framework to identify and evaluate strategies for promoting green hydrogen production from renewable energy sources in Tunisia. A Strength Weakness Opportunity and Threat (SWOT) analysis incorporating social economic and environmental dimensions was conducted to formulate potential solutions. The Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method facilitated the weighting of SWOT factors and subfactors. Subsequently a multi-criteria decision-making approach employing the gray technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS-G) method (validated by gray additive ratio assessment (ARAS-G) gray complex proportional assessment (COPRAS-G) and gray multi-objective optimization by ratio analysis (MOORA-G) was used to rank the identified strategies. The SWOT analysis revealed "Strengths" as the most influential factor with a relative weight of 47.3% followed by "Weaknesses" (26.5%) "Threats" (15.6%) and "Opportunities" (10.6%). Specifically experts emphasized Tunisia's renewable energy potential (21.89%) and robust power system (12.11%) as primary strengths. Conversely high investment costs (11.2%) and political instability (7.77%) posed substantial threat. Positive socio-economic impacts represented a key opportunity with a score of 5.2%. As for the strategies prioritizing criteria production cost ranked first with a score of 13.5% followed by environmental impact (12.8%) renewable energy potential (12.0%) and mitigation costs (11.3%). The gray TOPSIS analysis identified two key strategies: leveraging Tunisia's wind and solar resources and fostering regional cooperation for project implementation. The robustness of these strategies is confirmed by the strong correlation between TOPSIS-G ARAS-G COPRAS-G and MOORA-G results. Overall the study provides a comprehensive roadmap and expert-informed decision-support tools offering valuable insights for policymakers investors and stakeholders in Tunisia and other emerging economies facing similar energy challenges.

In this podcast episode Hydrogen Europe CEO Jorgo Chatzimarkakis engages in a dynamic conversation with Hydrogen Europe Research President Luigi Crema. Together they delve into the crucial partnership between industry and research within the hydrogen sector. The episode explores the symbiotic relationship between innovative research initiatives and practical industry applications shedding light on how collaboration fosters advancements in hydrogen technology.

Despite the growing recognition of hydrogen’s potential role in sustainable development there is limited un derstanding of how national hydrogen strategies align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study addresses this knowledge gap by examining the integration of the SDGs into national hydrogen strategies through text analysis. Among 66 reviewed strategic documents only 15 explicitly reference specific SDGs though SDG-related keywords are widespread particularly regarding SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Statistical analysis demonstrates a significant link between the presence of hydrogen strategies and both overall SDG performance and progress on most specific SDGs. However countries with hydrogen strategies show lower scores for SDGs 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13 and there are no significant differences for SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities) 14 (Life below Water) and 15 (Life on Land). Our findings highlight the need for more explicit integration of SDGs into hydrogen strategies and better consideration of sustainability synergies and trade-offs providing policymakers with evidence-based guidance for aligning hydrogen strategies with global sustainability objectives.

Hydrogen and carbon capture and storage are pivotal to decarbonize the European energy system in a broad range of pathway scenarios. Yet their timely uptake in different sectors and distribution across countries are affected by supply options of renewable and fossil energy sources. Here we analyze the decarbonization of the European energy system towards 2060 covering the power heat and industry sectors and the change in use of hydrogen and carbon capture and storage in these sectors upon Europe’s decoupling from Russian gas. The results indicate that the use of gas is significantly reduced in the power sector instead being replaced by coal with carbon capture and storage and with a further expansion of renewable generators. Coal coupled with carbon capture and storage is also used in the steel sector as an intermediary step when Russian gas is neglected before being fully decarbonized with hydrogen. Hydrogen production mostly relies on natural gas with carbon capture and storage until natural gas is scarce and costly at which time green hydrogen production increases sharply. The disruption of Russian gas imports has significant consequences on the decarbonization pathways for Europe with local energy sources and carbon capture and storage becoming even more important. Given the highlighted importance of carbon capture and storage in reaching the climate targets it is essential that policymakers ameliorate regulatory challenges related to these value chains.

This paper presents an assessment of the levelized cost of clean hydrogen produced in Sicily a region in Southern Italy particularly rich in renewable energy and where nearly 50% of Italy’s refineries are located making a comparison between on-site production that is near the end users who will use the hydrogen and centralized production comparing the costs obtained by employing the two types of electrolyzers already commercially available. In the study for centralized production the scale factor method was applied on the costs of electrolyzers and the optimal transport modes were considered based on the distance and amount of hydrogen to be transported. The results obtained indicate higher prices for hydrogen produced locally (from about 7 €/kg to 10 €/kg) and lower prices (from 2.66 €/kg to 5.80 €/kg) for hydrogen produced in centralized plants due to economies of scale and higher conversion efficiencies. How-ever meeting the demand for clean hydrogen at minimal cost requires hydrogen distribution pipelines to transport it from centralized production sites to users which currently do not exist in Sicily as well as a significant amount of renewable energy ranging from 1.4 to 1.7 TWh per year to cover only 16% of refineries’ hydrogen needs.

Hydrogen produced from renewable energy is being promoted to decarbonise global energy systems. To support this energy transition standards certification and labelling schemes (SCLs) aim to differentiate hydrogen products based on their system-wide carbon emissions and method of production characteristics. However being certified as low-carbon clean or green hydrogen does not guarantee broader sustainability across economic environmental social or governance dimensions. Through an international survey of energy-sector and sustainability professionals (n = 179) we investigated the desirable sustainability features for renewable hydrogen SCLs and the perceived advantages and disadvantages of sustainability certification. Our mixed-method study revealed general accordance on the feasible inclusion of diverse sustainability criteria in SCLs albeit with varying degrees of perceived essentiality. Within the confines of the data some differences in viewpoints emerged based on respondents’ geographical and supply chain locations which were associated with the sharing of costs and benefits. Qualitatively respondents found the idea of SCL harmonisation attractive but weighed this against the risks of duplication complicated administrative procedures and contradictory regulation. The implications of this research centre on the need for further studies to inform policy recommendations for an overarching SCL sustainability framework that embodies the principles of harmonisation in the context of multistakeholder governance.

In the quest for achieving decarbonisation it is essential for different sectors of the economy to collaborate and invest significantly. This study presents an innovative approach that merges technological insights with philosophical considerations at a national scale with the intention of shaping the national policy and practice. The aim of this research is to assist in formulating decarbonisation strategies for intricate economies. Libya a major oil exporter that can diversify its energy revenue sources is used as the case study. However the principles can be applied to develop decarbonisation strategies across the globe. The decarbonisation framework evaluated in this study encompasses wind-based renewable electricity hydrogen and gas turbine combined cycles. A comprehensive set of both official and unofficial national data was assembled integrated and analysed to conduct this study. The developed analytical model considers a variety of factors including consumption in different sectors geographical data weather patterns wind potential and consumption trends amongst others. When gaps and inconsistencies were encountered reasonable assumptions and projections were used to bridge them. This model is seen as a valuable foundation for developing replacement scenarios that can realistically guide production and user engagement towards decarbonisation. The aim of this model is to maintain the advantages of the current energy consumption level assuming a 2% growth rate and to assess changes in energy consumption in a fully green economy. While some level of speculation is present in the results important qualitative and quantitative insights emerge with the key takeaway being the use of hydrogen and the anticipated considerable increase in electricity demand. Two scenarios were evaluated: achieving energy self-sufficiency and replacing current oil exports with hydrogen exports on an energy content basis. This study offers for the first time a quantitative perspective on the wind-based infrastructure needs resulting from the evaluation of the two scenarios. In the first scenario energy requirements were based on replacing fossil fuels with renewable sources. In contrast the second scenario included maintaining energy exports at levels like the past substituting oil with hydrogen. The findings clearly demonstrate that this transition will demand great changes and substantial investments. The primary requirements identified are 20529 or 34199 km2 of land for wind turbine installations (for self-sufficiency and exports) and 44 single-shaft 600 MW combined-cycle hydrogen-fired gas turbines. This foundational analysis represents the commencement of the research investment and political agenda regarding the journey to achieving decarbonisation for a country.

The shift from fossil fuels to clean energy carriers such as renewable H2 is imminent. Consequently a global H2 market is taking shape involving countries with limited or insufficient energy resources importing from renewable-rich countries. This study evaluates the techno-economics of renewable hydrogen (H2) export in a globally significant scenario in which Australia exports to Japan. To gain insight into the immediate realisable future the base year was selected as 2030 with a consequently small (in export terms) hydrogen production rate of 100 t/day landed capacity. Electricity was generated by photovoltaic arrays (PV) connected directly to proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyser plant allowing for flexible gaseous hydrogen (GH2) production. To enhance the fidelity of the technoeconomic model we incorporated rarely applied but impactful parameters including dynamic efficiency and the overload capacity of PEM electrolysers. The GH2 produced was assumed to be converted into condensed forms suitable for export by sea: liquid hydrogen (LH2) and the chemical carriers liquid ammonia (LNH3) methanol (MeOH) methylcyclohexane (MCH). These were assumed to be reconverted to GH2 at the destination. LNH3 and MCH emerged as promising carriers for export yielding the lowest landed levelised cost of hydrogen (LCOH). LH2 yielded the highest LCOH unless boiloff gas could be managed effectively and cheaply. A sensitivity analysis showed that a lower weighted average cost of capital (WACC) and scale-up can significantly reduce the landed LCOH. Increasing the production rate to 1000 t/day landed capacity very significantly lowered the landed LCOH providing a strong incentive to scale up and optimise the entire supply chain as fast as possible.

Growth in Australia’s demand for engineers is fast outpacing supply. A significant challenge for Australia to achieve high projected low emissions hydrogen export targets by 2030 will be finding engineers with suitable knowledge skills and attributes to deliver hydrogen engineering projects safely and sustainably. This systematic review investigates educational outcomes needed to develop a hydrogen engineering workforce. Sixteen relevant studies published between 2003 and 2023 were identified to explore “What key knowledge skills and attributes support the development of a hydrogen engineering workforce?”. While these studies advocated the need for training and prescribed areas of required knowledge for the low-emissions hydrogen sector there was limited empirical evidence that informed what knowledge skills and attributes are relevant for entry to practice. This finding represents a significant opportunity for researchers to engage with employers and engineering practitioners within emerging low-emissions hydrogen sector capture empirical evidence and inform the design of educational programs.

As part of the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) SDG target 7.1 recognizes universal electrification and the provision of clean cooking fuel as two fundamental challenges for global society. Faltering progress toward SDG target 7.1 calls for innovative technologies to stimulate advancements. Hydrogen has been proposed as a versatile energy carrier to be applied in both pillars of SDG target 7.1: electrification and clean cooking. This paper conducts a semi-systematic literature review to provide the status quo of research on the application of hydrogen in the rationale of SDG 7.1 covering the technical integration pathways as well as the key economic environmental and social aspects of its use. We identify decisive factors for the future development of hydrogen use in the rationale of SDG target 7.1 and by complementing our analysis with insights from the related literature propose future avenues of research. The literature on electrification proposes that hydrogen can serve as a backup power supply in rural off-grid communities. While common electrification efforts aim to supply appliances that use lower amounts of electricity a hydrogen-based power supply can satisfy appliances with higher power demands including electric cook stoves while simultaneously supporting clean cooking efforts. Alternatively with the exclusive aim of stimulating clean cooking hydrogen is proposed to be used as a clean cooking fuel via direct combustion in distribution and utilization infrastructures analogous to Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG). While expected economic and technical developments are seen as likely to render hydrogen technologies economically competitive with conventional fossil fuels in the future the potential of renewably produced hydrogen usage to reduce climate-change impacts and point-of-use emissions is already evident today. Social benefits are likely when meeting essential safety standards as a hydrogen-based power supply offers service on a high tier that might overachieve SDG 7.1 ambitions while hydrogen cooking via combustion fits into the existing social habits of LPG users. However the literature lacks clear evidence on the social impact of hydrogen usage. Impact assessments of demonstration projects are required to fill this research gap.

The global momentum towards hydrogen has led to various initiatives aimed at harnessing hydrogen’s potential. In particular low-carbon hydrogen is recognized for its crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions across hard-to-abate sectors such as steel cement and heavy-duty transport. This study focuses on the presentation of all hydrogen-related financing initiatives in Italy providing a comprehensive overview of the various activities and their geographical locations. The examined funding comes from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) from projects directly funded through the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) and from several initiatives supported by private companies or other funding sources (hydrogen valleys). Specific calls for proposals within the PNRR initiative outline the allocation of funds focusing on hydrogen production in brownfield areas (52 expected hydrogen production plants by 2026) hydrogen use in hard-to-abate sectors and the establishment of hydrogen refuelling stations for both road (48 refuelling stations by 2026) and railway transport (10 hydrogen-based railway lines). A detailed description of the funded initiatives (150 in total) is presented encompassing their geographical location typology and size (when available) as well as the funding they have received. This overview sheds light on regions prioritising decarbonisation efforts in heavy-duty transport especially along cross-border commercial routes as evident in northern Italy. Conversely some regions concentrate more on local transport typically buses or on the industrial sector primarily steel and chemical industries. Additionally the study presents initiatives aimed at strengthening the national manufacturing capacity for hydrogenrelated technologies alongside new regulatory and incentive schemes for hydrogen. The ultimate goal of this analysis is to foster connections among existing and planned projects stimulate new initiatives along the entire hydrogen value chain raise an awareness of hydrogen among stakeholders and promote cooperation and international competitiveness.

This article examines the role of European port authorities in assembling the green hydrogen frontier through the production of speculative connections with prospective hydrogen export zones in the global South. Specifically it analyses the role of a particular discursive tool the pre-feasibility report in fixing the meaning of Namibian territory for the purposes of green hydrogen export disembedding hydrogen products from the social political and ecological bases of their production. We argue that the green hydrogen frontier is fundamentally a speculative project insofar as it both accentuates the productive indeterminacy of green hydrogen as an energy commodity and develops a series of discursive strategies designed to measure map and capture the anticipated value of this commodity. The article’s findings advance geographical debates on energy territory and speculation by demonstrating the role of the port authority - an under-researched actor in the literature on energy transitions - in the reimagination and transformation of littoral territories in the global South.

Continuing from previous episodes about encouraging global investment in green hydrogen Patrick Molloy and Alicia Eastman speak with Ignacio de Calonje Chief Investment Officer IFC Global Infrastructure. Ignacio breaks down the role of the IFC and its relationship with other Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to encourage decarbonization and bespoke solutions for the Global South.

The podcast can be found on their website.

This report delves into the European renewable hydrogen supply chain to offer recommendations for Europe to become a leader in the hydrogen economy.

China as both a major energy consumer and the largest carbon emitter globally views carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) hydrogen production as a crucial and innovative technology for achieving its dual carbon goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. The development of such technologies requires strong policy guidance making the quantification of policy pathways essential for understanding their effectiveness. This study employs a data-driven framewor integrating LDA topic modeling and the PMC-TE index to analyze the regional and temporal dynamics of CCUS-hydrogen development policies. The research identifies 16 optimal policy topics highlighting gaps in policy design and implementation. The analysis uncovers significant fragmentation in policy pathways with supply-side policies receiving disproportionate attention while demand-side and environmental policies remain under-supported. Regional disparities are evident with wealthier provinces showing higher policy engagement compared to underdeveloped regions. The study also reveals that policy evolution has been largely reactive emphasizing the need for a more proactive and consistent long-term strategy. These findings provide valuable insights for creating more balanced integrated and regionally tailored policy approaches to effectively drive CCUS-hydrogen development in China.

Recently worldwide the attention being paid to hydrogen and its derivatives as alternative carbon-free (or low-carbon) options for the electricity sector the transport sector and the industry sector has increased. Several projects in the field of low-emission hydrogen production (particularly electrolysis-based green hydrogen) have either been constructed or analyzed for their feasibility. Despite the great ambitions announced by some nations with respect to becoming hubs for hydrogen production and export some quantification of the levels at which hydrogen and its derived products are expected to penetrate the global energy system and its various demand sectors would be useful in order to judge the practicality and likelihood of these ambitions and future targets. The current study aims to summarize some of the expectations of the level at which hydrogen and its derivatives could spread into the global economy under two possible future scenarios. The first future scenario corresponds to a business-as-usual (BAU) pathway where the world proceeds with the same existing policies and targets related to emissions and low-carbon energy transition. This forms a lower bound for the level of the role of hydrogen and its penetration into the global energy system. The second future scenario corresponds to an emission-conscious pathway where governments cooperate to implement the changes necessary to decarbonize the economy by 2050 in order to achieve net-zero emissions of carbon dioxide (carbon neutrality) and thus limit the rise in the global mean surface temperature to 1.5 ◦C by 2100 (compared to pre-industrial periods). This forms an upper bound for the level of the role of hydrogen and its penetration into the global energy system. The study utilizes the latest release of the annual comprehensive report WEO (World Energy Outlook—edition year 2023 the 26th edition) of the IEA (International Energy Agency) as well as the latest release of the annual comprehensive report WETO (World Energy Transitions Outlook—edition year 2023 the third edition) of the IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency). For the IEA-WEO report the business-as-usual situation is STEPS (Stated “Energy” Policies Scenario) and the emissions-conscious situation is NZE (Net-Zero Emissions by 2050). For the IRENA-WETO report the business-asusual situation is the PES (Planned Energy Scenario) and the emissions-conscious situation is the 1.5◦C scenario. Through the results presented here it becomes possible to infer a realistic range for the production and utilization of hydrogen and its derivatives in 2030 and 2050. In addition the study enables the divergence between the models used in WEO and WETO to be estimated by identifying the different predictions for similar variables under similar conditions. The study covers miscellaneous variables related to energy and emissions other than hydrogen which are helpful in establishing a good view of how the world may look in 2030 and 2050. Some barriers (such as the uncompetitive levelized cost of electrolysis-based green hydrogen) and drivers (such as the German H2Global initiative) for the hydrogen economy are also discussed. The study finds that the large-scale utilization of hydrogen or its derivatives as a source of energy is highly uncertain and it may be reached slowly given more than two decades to mature. Despite this electrolysis-based green hydrogen is expected to dominate the global hydrogen economy with the annual global production of electrolysis-based green hydrogen expected to increase from 0 million tonnes in 2021 to between 22 million tonnes and 327 million tonnes (with electrolyzer capacity exceeding 5 terawatts) in 2050 depending on the commitment of policymakers toward decarbonization and energy transitions.

Green hydrogen stands as a promising clean energy carrier with potential net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. However different system-level configurations for green hydrogen production yield different levels of efficiency cost and maturity necessitating a comprehensive assessment. This review evaluates the components of hydrogen production plants from technical and economic perspectives. The study examines six renewable energy sources—solar photovoltaics solar thermal wind biomass hydro and geothermal—alongside three types of electrolyzers (alkaline proton exchange membrane and solid oxide electrolyzer cells) and five hydrogen storage methods (compressed hydrogen liquid hydrogen metal hydrides ammonia and liquid organic hydrogen carriers). A comprehensive assessment of 90 potential system configurations is conducted across five key performance indicators: the overall system cost efficiency emissions production scale and technological maturity. The most cost-effective configurations involve solar photovoltaics or wind turbines combined with alkaline electrolyzers and compressed hydrogen storage. For enhanced system efficiency geothermal sources or biomass paired with solid oxide electrolyzer cells utilizing waste heat show significant promise. The top technologically mature systems feature combinations of solar photovoltaics wind turbines geothermal or hydroelectric power with alkaline electrolyzers using compressed hydrogen or ammonia storage. The highest hydrogen production scales are observed in systems with solar PV wind or hydro power paired with alkaline or PEM electrolyzers and ammonia storage. Configurations using hydro geothermal wind or solar thermal energy sources paired with alkaline electrolyzers and compressed hydrogen or liquid organic hydrogen carriers yield the lowest life cycle GHG emissions. These insights provide valuable decision-making tools for researchers business developers and policymakers guiding the optimization of system efficiency and the reduction of system costs.

Promoting the development of China’s hydrogen energy industry is crucial for achieving green energy transition. However existing research lacks systematic studies on the spatial layout of the hydrogen industry chain. This study constructed a comprehensive theoretical framework encompassing hardware infrastructure software systems and soft power. Using multi-source heterogeneous data GIS analysis and NVivo text coding methods the current regional layout and challenges of China’s hydrogen infrastructure industry chain were systematically evaluated. The findings determined that economically developed eastern regions lead in infrastructure and soft power while central and western regions leverage their resource and manufacturing advantages. Major challenges include regional imbalances in hardware infrastructure uneven distribution of soft power and misalignment between software systems and actual needs. Analysis of the “14th Five-Year Plan” of various regions elucidated deep insights into the diversity of local hydrogen energy development strategies identifying five types of hydrogen cities: resource-advantaged market-oriented regionally collaborative innovation-driven and policy-supported. Accordingly strategies to enhance industry chain synergy clarify city roles and optimize regional ecosystems were proposed. It is recommended to integrate hydrogen infrastructure with urban planning and incorporate environmental impact assessments into spatial optimization decisions. This study provides a systematic analytical framework and progressive policy recommendations for the efficient and green layout of China’s hydrogen infrastructure offering important implications for the sustainable development of the hydrogen industry and other rapidly developing economies.

Low-carbon hydrogen plays a key role in European industrial decarbonization strategies. This work investigates the cost-optimal planning of European low-carbon hydrogen supply chains in the near term (2025–2035) comparing several hydrogen production technologies and considering multiple spatial scales. We focus on mature hydrogen production technologies: steam methane reforming of natural gas biomethane reforming biomass gasification and water electrolysis. The analysis includes carbon capture and storage for natural gas and biomass-derived hydrogen. We formulate and solve a linear optimization model that determines the costoptimal type size and location of hydrogen production and transport technologies in compliance with selected carbon emission targets including the EU fit for 55 target and an ambitious net-zero emissions target for 2035. Existing steam methane reforming capacities are considered and optimal carbon and biomass networks are designed. Findings identify biomass-based hydrogen production as the most cost-efficient hydrogen technology. Carbon capture and storage is installed to achieve net-zero carbon emissions while electrolysis remains costdisadvantageous and is deployed on a limited scale across all considered sensitivity scenarios. Our analysis highlights the importance of spatial resolution revealing that national perspectives underestimate costs by neglecting domestic transport needs and regional resource constraints emphasizing the necessity for highly decarbonized infrastructure designs aligned with renewable resource availabilities.

Renewable hydrogen is a flexible and versatile energy vector that can facilitate the decarbonization of several sectors and simultaneously ease the stress on the electricity grids that are currently being saturated with intermittent renewable power. But hydrogen technologies are currently facing limitations related to existing infrastructure limitations available markets as well as production storage and distribution costs. These challenges will be gradually addressed through the establishment operation and scaling-up of hydrogen valleys. Hydrogen valleys are an important stepping stone towards the full-scale implementation of the hydrogen economy with the target to foster sustainability lower carbon emissions and derisk the associated hydrogen technologies. These hydrogen ecosystems integrate renewable energy sources efficient hydrogen production storage transportation technologies as well as diverse end-users within a defined geographical region. This study offers an overview of the hydrogen valleys concept analyzing the critical aspects of their design and the key segments that constitute the framework of a hydrogen valley. А holistic overview of the key characteristics of a hydrogen valley is provided whereas an overview of key on-going hydrogen valley projects is presented. This work underscores the importance of addressing challenges related to the integration of renewable energy sources into electricity grids as well as scale-up challenges associated with economic and market conditions society awareness and political decision-making.

The high potential in renewable energy sources (RES) and the availability of strategic minerals for green hydrogen technologies place Africa in a promising position for the development of a climate-compatible economy leveraging on hydrogen. This study reviews the potential hydrogen value chain in Africa considering production and final uses while addressing perspectives on policies possible infrastructures and facilities for hydrogen logistics. Through scientific studies research and searching in relevant repositories this review features the collection analysis of technical data and georeferenced information about key aspects of the hydrogen value chain. Detailed maps and technical data for gas transport infrastructure and liquefaction terminals in the continent are reported to inform and elaborate findings about readiness for hydrogen trading and domestic use in Africa. Specific maps and technical data have been also collected for the identification of potential hydrogen offtakers focusing on individual industrial installations to produce iron and steel chemicals and oil refineries. Finally georeferenced data are presented for main road and railway corridors as well as for most important African ports as further end-use and logistic platforms. Beyond technical information this study collects and discusses more recent perspectives about policies and implementation initiatives specifically addressing hydrogen production logistics and final use also introducing potential criticalities associated with environmental and social impacts.

Green hydrogen is expected to play a vital role in decarbonizing the energy system in Europe. However large-scale deployment of green hydrogen has associated potential trade-offs in terms of climate and other environmental impacts. This study aims to shed light on a comprehensive sustainability assessment of this large-scale green hydrogen deployment based on the EMPIRE energy system modeling compared with other decarbonization paths. Process-based Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is applied and connected with the output of the energy system model revealing 45% extra climate impact caused by the dedicated 50% extra renewable infrastructure to deliver green hydrogen for the demand in the sectors of industry and transport in Europe towards 2050. Whereas the analysis shows that green hydrogen eventually wins on the climate impact within four designed scenarios (with green hydrogen with blue hydrogen without green hydrogen and baseline) mainly compensated by its clean usage and renewable electricity supply. On the other hand green hydrogen has a lower performance in other environmental impacts including human toxicity ecotoxicity mineral use land use and water depletion. Furthermore a monetary valuation of Life Cycle Impact (LCI) is estimated to aggregate 13 categories of environmental impacts between different technologies. Results indicate that the total monetized LCI cost of green hydrogen production is relatively lower than that of blue hydrogen. In overview a large-scale green hydrogen deployment potentially shifts the environmental pressure from climate and fossil resource use to human health mineral resource use and ecosystem damage due to its higher material consumption of the infrastructure.

Hydrogen is gaining importance to decarbonize the energy system and tackle the climate crisis. This exploratory study analyzes three focus groups with representatives from relevant organizations in a Northern German region that has unique beneficial characteristics for the transition to a hydrogen economy. Based upon this data (1) a category system of innovation adoption barriers for hydrogen technologies is developed (2) decision levels associated with the barriers are identified (3) detailed insights on how decision levels contribute to the adoption barriers are provided and (4) the barriers are evaluated in terms of their importance. Our analysis adds to existing literature by focusing on short-term barriers and exploring relevant decision levels and their associated adoption barriers. Our main results comprise the following: flaws in the funding system complex approval procedures lack of networks and high costs contribute to hydrogen adoption barriers. The (Sub-)State level is relevant for the uptake of the hydrogen economy. Regional entities have leeway to foster the hydrogen transition especially with respect to the distribution infrastructure. Funding policy technological suitability investment and operating costs and the availability of distribution infrastructure and technical components are highly important adoption barriers that alone can impede the transition to a hydrogen economy.

This brochure provides a detailed overview of the EU’s funding mechanisms and an inspiring look at real projects managed by CINEA. These examples illustrate how diverse stakeholders from industry leaders to research institutions are translating hydrogen ambitions into impactful on-the-ground solutions that address both technological and societal needs.

Hydrogen valleys are envisaged (imagined) integrated industrial systems where hydrogen is produced stored and utilized. Here we show how hydrogen valleys as sociotechnical imaginaries are differentiated in terms of their specific configurations but homogenous in terms of reflecting the interests of large industrial fossil fuel suppliers and consumers. This path dependence is anticipated in sociotechnical transitions theory which emphasises the power of incumbents with vested interests to maintain basic templates or regimes of production and consumption. The simultaneously heterogeneous and homogenous nature of hydrogen valley imaginaries can be thought of as a form of glocalisation for which we draw on Roudometof's theory of glocalisation as involving the local refraction of diffusing global tendencies. To illustrate this we compare two hydrogen valleys one in the north of the Netherlands and one in southern Spain. In the north Netherlands the hydrogen valley imaginary comprises use of offshore windpower to electrolyse hydrogen for transport fuel and as feedstock to heavy industry in proximate regions including northern Germany and Belgium. This is consistent with existing gas distribution networks connecting industrial consumers. In the southern Spanish case the imaginary positions Spain as a major exporter of green hydrogen to the rest of Europe via onshore renewable electrolysis with export including via ocean tankers and chemical refining in existing infrastructure in Rotterdam. Overall the study explores empirically theoretically-informed themes concerning the interrelationship of mutually supportive local and global imaginaries – hence our term glocalised imaginaries.

This report is an output of the Clean Energy Technology Observatory (CETO) and is an update of the “Water electrolysis and hydrogen in the European Union” 2023 CETO report. CETO’s objective is to provide an evidencebased analysis feeding the policy making process and hence increasing the effectiveness of R&I policies for clean energy technologies and solutions. It monitors EU research and innovation activities on clean energy technologies needed for the delivery of the European Green Deal; and assesses the competitiveness of the EU clean energy sector and its positioning in the global energy market. CETO is being implemented by the Joint Research Centre for DG Research and Innovation Energy in coordination with DG Energy.

The combustion of liquid fossil fuels in the transportation sector disposal and incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW) are the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions in cities across the world. In an effort to decarbonize the transportation sector the South African government is dedicated to advancing green trans portation through the hydrogen economy. Waste-to-hydrogen production can simultaneously achieve the goals of green transportation and waste management through widespread availability of hydrogen refuelling stations. This study assesses the techno-economic and environmental viability of waste-to-hydrogen refuelling stations in five selected South Africa cities. The refuelling stations’ capacity was determined based on assumption that a 5 kg hydrogen-fuel-cell vehicle is refuelled per day. The economic feasibility was premised on net present value (NPV) payback period (PBP) internal rate of return (IRR) and levelized cost of hydrogen refuelling (LCOHr). The environmental analysis was based on ecological efficiency and carbon emission reduction potential. Some of the main findings indicate that the City of Tshwane and City of Johannesburg have refuelling station capacities of 356 thousand kg/day H2 and 395 thousand kg/day H2 respectively. Economically the project is viable with positive NPV between 1.099 and 8.0563 Billion $ LCOHr in the range of 3.99 $/kg - 5.63 $/kg PBP of 9.03–13.74 years and IRR of 18.16 %–39.88 %. An ecological efficiency of 99.982 % was obtained which in dicates an environmentally friendly system with the potential to save 1439 million litres and 1563 million litres of diesel fuel and gasoline respectively capable of preventing about 4 kilo-tons of CO2 into the atmosphere annually. Sensitivity analysis indicates that reforming efficiency selling price of hydrogen and station capacity are crucial parameters with great influence on the economic profitability of waste-to-hydrogen refuelling station.

This research aims to determine the position and the breakthrough trajectory of sustainable energy technologies. Fine-grained insights into these breakthrough positions and trajectories are limited. This research seeks to fill this gap by analyzing sustainable energy technologies’ breakthrough positions and trajectories in terms of development application and upscaling. To this end the breakthrough positions and trajectories of seven sustainable energy technologies i.e. hydrogen from seawater electrolysis hydrogen airplanes inland floating photovoltaics redox flow batteries hydrogen energy for grid balancing hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles and smart sustainable energy houses are analyzed. This is guided by an extensively researched and literature-based model that visualizes and describes these technologies’ experimentation and demonstration stages. This research identifies where these technologies are located in their breakthrough trajectory in terms of the development phase (prototyping production process and organization and niche market creation and sales) experiment and demonstration stage (technical organizational and market) the form of collaboration (public–private private–public and private) physical location (university and company laboratories production sites and marketplaces) and scale-up type (demonstrative and first-order and second-order transformative). For scientists this research offers the opportunity to further refine the features of sustainable energy technologies’ developmental positions and trajectories at a detailed level. For practitioners it provides insights that help to determine investments in various sustainable energy technologies.

Hydrogen is a zero-carbon energy carrier with potential to decarbonize industrial and transportation sectors but its life-cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions depend on its energy supply chain and carbon management measures (e.g. carbon capture and storage). Global support for clean hydrogen production and use has recently intensified. In the United States Congress passed several laws that incentivize the production and use of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) in 2021 and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in 2022 which provides tax credits of up to $3/kg depending on the carbon intensity of the produced hydrogen. A comprehensive life-cycle accounting of GHG emissions associated with hydrogen production is needed to determine the carbon intensity of hydrogen throughout its value chain. In the United States Argonne’s R&D GREET® (Greenhouse Gases Regulated emissions and Energy use in Technologies) model has been widely used for hydrogen carbon intensity calculations. This paper describes the major hydrogen technology pathways considered in the United States and provides data sources and carbon intensity results for each of the hydrogen production and delivery pathways using consistent system boundaries and most recent technology performance and supply chain data.

This study examines the effects of transitioning to hydrogen production in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Palawan Province Philippines focusing on technology environment and stakeholder impact. This research conducted through a July 2022 survey aimed to assess public awareness knowledge risk perception and acceptance of hydrogen and its environmentally friendly variant green hydrogen infrastructure. Disparities were found between urban NCR and rural Palawan with lower awareness in Palawan. Safety concerns were highlighted with NCR respondents generally considering hydrogen production safe while Palawan respondents had mixed feelings particularly regarding nuclear-based hydrogen generation. This report emphasizes the potential ecological advantages of hydrogen technology but highlights potential issues concerning water usage and land impacts. It suggests targeted public awareness campaigns robust safety assurance programs regional pilot projects and integrated environmental plans to facilitate the seamless integration of hydrogen technology into the Philippines’ energy portfolio. This collective effort aims to help the country meet climate action obligations foster sustainable development and enhance energy resilience.

The coastal region of Ceará Brazil is expected to host offshore wind farms aimed at producing green hydrogen (GH2) through electrolysis. However the viability and cost of these developments may be affected by the mechanical behaviour of the marine subsoil which is largely composed of carbonate sands. These sediments are known for their complex and variable geotechnical properties which can influence the foundation performance. This study investigates the geotechnical characteristics of carbonate sands in comparison with quartz sands to support the design of offshore wind turbine foundations. Field testing using the Ménard pressuremeter and laboratory analyses including particle size distribution microscopy X-ray fluorescence calcimetry direct shear and triaxial testing were performed to determine the key strength and stiffness parameters. The results show substantial differences between carbonate and quartz sands particularly in terms of the stiffness and friction angle with notable variability even within the same material type. These findings highlight the need for site-specific characterisation in offshore foundation design. This study contributes data that can improve geotechnical risk assessments and assist in selecting appropriate foundation solutions under local conditions supporting the planned offshore wind energy infrastructure essential to Ceará’s green hydrogen strategy.

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the feasibility of green hydrogen economies in Western and Southern African regions focusing on the ECOWAS and SADC countries. Utilizing a novel approach based on composite indicators the research evaluates the potential readiness and overall feasibility of green hydrogen production and export across these regions. The study incorporates various factors including the technical potential of renewable energy sources water resource availability energy security and existing infrastructure for transport and export. Country-specific analyses reveal unique insights into the diverse potential of nations like South Africa Lesotho Ghana Nigeria Angola and Namibia each with its unique strengths and challenges in the context of green hydrogen. The research findings underscore the complexity of developing green hydrogen economies highlighting the need for nuanced region-specific approaches that consider technical socioeconomic geopolitical and environmental factors. The paper concludes that cooperation and integration between countries in the regions may be crucial for the success of a future green hydrogen economy

Curtailment of renewable energy is a growing issue in global energy infrastructure. A case study is carried out to investigate wind energy curtailment occurring in Scotland which presents a growing issue with an increasing amount of renewable energy going to waste. Complex relationships between grid constraints and wind farm operations must be explored to maximise utilisation of low-carbon electricity and to avoid the “turnup” of non-renewable sources. Transmission zones and boundaries are considered and mapped and a novel method of direct measurement of curtailment for transmission-level assets is proposed with an intuitive reproducible approach utilising balancing mechanism data. Curtailment data is examined and combined to find national trends explore the viability of distributed hydrogen electrolysis and compare curtailment and constraint directly across transmission boundaries. The weaknesses of the data collection methods are considered solutions for a future iteration are proposed and further uses of the outputs are discovered.