Policy & Socio-Economics
An Independent Assessment of the UK’s Clean Growth Strategy: From Ambition to Action
Nov 2018
Publication
This report provides the Committee on Climate Change’s response to the UK Government’s Clean Growth Strategy.
The report finds that:
The report finds that:
- The Government has made a strong commitment to achieving the UK’s climate change targets.
- Policies and proposals set out in the Clean Growth Strategy will need to be firmed up.
- Gaps to meeting the fourth and fifth carbon budgets remain. These gaps must be closed.
- Risks of under-delivery must be addressed and carbon budgets met on time.
Reducing Emissions in Northern Ireland
Feb 2019
Publication
In this report the Committee sets out how Northern Ireland can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions between now and 2030 in order to meet UK-wide climate change targets.
The report’s key findings are:
The report’s key findings are:
- Existing policies are not enough to deliver this reduction
- There are excellent opportunities to close this gap and go beyond 35%
- Meeting the cost-effective path to decarbonisation in Northern Ireland will require action across all sectors of the economy and a more joined-up approach
Hydrogen as a Clean and Sustainable Energy Vector for Global Transition from Fossil-Based to Zero-Carbon
Dec 2021
Publication
Hydrogen is recognized as a promising and attractive energy carrier to decarbonize the sectors responsible for global warming such as electricity production industry and transportation. However although hydrogen releases only water as a result of its reaction with oxygen through a fuel cell the hydrogen production pathway is currently a challenging issue since hydrogen is produced mainly from thermochemical processes (natural gas reforming coal gasification). On the other hand hydrogen production through water electrolysis has attracted a lot of attention as a means to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using low-carbon sources such as renewable energy (solar wind hydro) and nuclear energy. In this context by providing an environmentally-friendly fuel instead of the currently-used fuels (unleaded petrol gasoline kerosene) hydrogen can be used in various applications such as transportation (aircraft boat vehicle and train) energy storage industry medicine and power-to-gas. This article aims to provide an overview of the main hydrogen applications (including present and future) while examining funding and barriers to building a prosperous future for the nation by addressing all the critical challenges met in all energy sectors.
The Future of Hydrogen
Jun 2019
Publication
At the request of the government of Japan under its G20 presidency the International Energy Agency produced this landmark report to analyse the current state of play for hydrogen and to offer guidance on its future development.
The report finds that clean hydrogen is currently enjoying unprecedented political and business momentum with the number of policies and projects around the world expanding rapidly. It concludes that now is the time to scale up technologies and bring down costs to allow hydrogen to become widely used. The pragmatic and actionable recommendations to governments and industry that are provided will make it possible to take full advantage of this increasing momentum.
Hydrogen and energy have a long shared history – powering the first internal combustion engines over 200 years ago to becoming an integral part of the modern refining industry. It is light storable energy-dense and produces no direct emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases. But for hydrogen to make a significant contribution to clean energy transitions it needs to be adopted in sectors where it is almost completely absent such as transport buildings and power generation.
The Future of Hydrogen provides an extensive and independent survey of hydrogen that lays out where things stand now; the ways in which hydrogen can help to achieve a clean secure and affordable energy future; and how we can go about realising its potential.
Link to Document on IEA Website
The report finds that clean hydrogen is currently enjoying unprecedented political and business momentum with the number of policies and projects around the world expanding rapidly. It concludes that now is the time to scale up technologies and bring down costs to allow hydrogen to become widely used. The pragmatic and actionable recommendations to governments and industry that are provided will make it possible to take full advantage of this increasing momentum.
Hydrogen and energy have a long shared history – powering the first internal combustion engines over 200 years ago to becoming an integral part of the modern refining industry. It is light storable energy-dense and produces no direct emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases. But for hydrogen to make a significant contribution to clean energy transitions it needs to be adopted in sectors where it is almost completely absent such as transport buildings and power generation.
The Future of Hydrogen provides an extensive and independent survey of hydrogen that lays out where things stand now; the ways in which hydrogen can help to achieve a clean secure and affordable energy future; and how we can go about realising its potential.
Link to Document on IEA Website
Gas Goes Green: Delivering the Pathway to Net Zero
May 2020
Publication
Gas Goes Green brings together the engineering expertise from the UK’s five gas network operators building on the foundations of our existing grid infrastructure innovation projects and the wider scientific community. This is a blueprint to meet the challenges and opportunities of climate change delivering net zero in the most cost effective and least disruptive way possible.<br/>Delivering our vision is not just an engineering challenge but will involve active participation from policy makers regulators the energy industry and consumers. Gas Goes Green will undertake extensive engagement to deliver our programme and collaborate with existing projects already being delivered across the country.<br/>Britain’s extensive gas network infrastructure provides businesses and the public with the energy they need at the times when they need it the most. The gas we deliver plays a critical role in our everyday lives generating electricity fuelling vehicles heating our homes and providing the significant amounts of energy UK heavy industry needs. The Gas Goes Green programme aims to ensure that consumers continue to realise these benefits by transitioning our infrastructure into a net zero energy system.
A Comparative Feasibility Study of the Use of Hydrogen Produced from Surplus Wind Power for a Gas Turbine Combined Cycle Power Plant
Dec 2021
Publication
Because of the increasing challenges raised by climate change power generation from renewable energy sources is steadily increasing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions especially CO2 . However this has escalated concerns about the instability of the power grid and surplus power generated because of the intermittent power output of renewable energy. To resolve these issues this study investigates two technical options that integrate a power-to-gas (PtG) process using surplus wind power and the gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC). In the first option hydrogen produced using a power-to-hydrogen (PtH) process is directly used as fuel for the GTCC. In the second hydrogen from the PtH process is converted into synthetic natural gas by capturing carbon dioxide from the GTCC exhaust which is used as fuel for the GTCC. An annual operational analysis of a 420-MWclass GTCC was conducted which shows that the CO2 emissions of the GTCC-PtH and GTCC-PtM plants could be reduced by 95.5% and 89.7% respectively in comparison to a conventional GTCC plant. An economic analysis was performed to evaluate the economic feasibility of the two plants using the projected cost data for the year 2030 which showed that the GTCC-PtH would be a more viable option.
Sectoral Scenarios for the Fifth Carbon Budget
Nov 2015
Publication
This report forms part of the Committee’s advice on the level of the fifth carbon budget.<br/>The report describes the scenarios used by the Committee to inform its judgements over the cost-effective path to meeting the UK’s greenhouse reduction targets in the period 2028-2032.
Hydrogen in a Low-carbon Economy
Nov 2018
Publication
This report by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) assesses the potential role of hydrogen in the UK’s low-carbon economy.
It finds that hydrogen:
It finds that hydrogen:
- is a credible option to help decarbonise the UK energy system but its role depends on early Government commitment and improved support to develop the UK’s industrial capability
- can make an important contribution to long-term decarbonisation if combined with greater energy efficiency cheap low-carbon power generation electrified transport and new ‘hybrid’ heat pump systems which have been successfully trialled in the UK
- could replace natural gas in parts of the energy system where electrification is not feasible or is prohibitively expensive for example in providing heat on colder winter days industrial heat processes and back-up power generation
- is not a ‘silver bullet’ solution; the report explores some commonly-held misconceptions highlighting the need for careful planning
- Government must commit to developing a low-carbon heat strategy within the next three years
- Significant volumes of low-carbon hydrogen should be produced in a carbon capture and storage (CCS) ‘cluster’ by 2030 to help the industry grow
- Government must support the early demonstration of the everyday uses of hydrogen in order to establish the practicality of switching from natural gas to hydrogen
- There is low awareness amongst the general public of reasons to move away from natural gas heating to low-carbon alternatives
- A strategy should be developed for low-carbon heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) which encourages a move away from fossil fuels and biofuels to zero-emission solutions by 2050
Net Zero The UK's Contribution to Stopping Global Warming
May 2019
Publication
This report responds to a request from the Governments of the UK Wales and Scotland asking the Committee to reassess the UK’s long-term emissions targets. Our new emissions scenarios draw on ten new research projects three expert advisory groups and reviews of the work of the IPCC and others.<br/>The conclusions are supported by detailed analysis published in the Net Zero Technical Report that has been carried out for each sector of the economy plus consideration of F-gas emissions and greenhouse gas removals.
Progress Report 2016: Meeting Carbon Budgets
Jun 2016
Publication
This is the CCC’s eighth annual report on the UK’s progress in meeting carbon budgets.
The report shows that greenhouse gas emissions have fallen rapidly in the UK power sector but that progress has stalled in other sectors such as:
The report also outlines the Committee’s view of key criteria for the government’s ’emissions reduction plan’ published later in 2017
The report shows that greenhouse gas emissions have fallen rapidly in the UK power sector but that progress has stalled in other sectors such as:
- heating in buildings
- transport
- industry
- agriculture
The report also outlines the Committee’s view of key criteria for the government’s ’emissions reduction plan’ published later in 2017
UK Business Opportunities of Moving to a Low-carbon Economy
Mar 2017
Publication
The following report accompanies the Committee on Climate Change’s 2017 report on energy prices and bills. It was written by Ricardo Energy and Environment.
The report provides an analysis of the opportunities to UK businesses to supply global markets with low carbon materials and goods and services. The report considers: the position of the current UK low carbon economy the size of the market opportunity for UK businesses in 2030 and 2050 the barriers to UK business capturing a larger share of the global market the opportunity to increase the UK’s share of future global markets
Link to Document
The report provides an analysis of the opportunities to UK businesses to supply global markets with low carbon materials and goods and services. The report considers: the position of the current UK low carbon economy the size of the market opportunity for UK businesses in 2030 and 2050 the barriers to UK business capturing a larger share of the global market the opportunity to increase the UK’s share of future global markets
Link to Document
Reducing UK Emissions Progress Report to Parliament
Jun 2020
Publication
This is the Committee’s 2020 report to Parliament assessing progress in reducing UK emissions over the past year. This year the report includes new advice to the UK Government on securing a green and resilient recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. The Committee’s new analysis expands on its May 2020 advice to the UK Prime Minister in which it set out the principles for building a resilient recovery. In its new report the Committee has assessed a wide set of measures and gathered the latest evidence on the role of climate policies in the economic recovery. Its report highlights five clear investment priorities in the months ahead:
- Low-carbon retrofits and buildings that are fit for the future
- Tree planting peatland restoration and green infrastructure
- Energy networks must be strengthened
- Infrastructure to make it easy for people to walk cycle and work remotely
- Moving towards a circular economy.
- Reskilling and retraining programmes
- Leading a move towards positive behaviours
- Targeted science and innovation funding
Reducing UK Emissions – 2019 Progress Report to Parliament
Jul 2019
Publication
This is the Committee’s annual report to Parliament assessing progress in reducing UK emissions over the past year. It finds that UK action to curb greenhouse gas emissions is lagging behind what is needed to meet legally-binding emissions targets. Since June 2018 Government has delivered only 1 of 25 critical policies needed to get emissions reductions back on track.
Integration of Hydrogen into Multi-Energy Systems Optimisation
Apr 2020
Publication
Hydrogen presents an attractive option to decarbonise the present energy system. Hydrogen can extend the usage of the existing gas infrastructure with low-cost energy storability and flexibility. Excess electricity generated by renewables can be converted into hydrogen. In this paper a novel multi-energy systems optimisation model was proposed to maximise investment and operating synergy in the electricity heating and transport sectors considering the integration of a hydrogen system to minimise the overall costs. The model considers two hydrogen production processes: (i) gas-to-gas (G2G) with carbon capture and storage (CCS) and (ii) power-to-gas (P2G). The proposed model was applied in a future Great Britain (GB) system. Through a comparison with the system without hydrogen the results showed that the G2G process could reduce £3.9 bn/year and that the P2G process could bring £2.1 bn/year in cost-savings under a 30 Mt carbon target. The results also demonstrate the system implications of the two hydrogen production processes on the investment and operation of other energy sectors. The G2G process can reduce the total power generation capacity from 71 GW to 53 GW and the P2G process can promote the integration of wind power from 83 GW to 130 GW under a 30 Mt carbon target. The results also demonstrate the changes in the heating strategies driven by the different hydrogen production processes.
Green Hydrogen: A Guide to Policy Making
Nov 2020
Publication
Hydrogen produced with renewable energy sources – or “green” hydrogen – has emerged as a key element to achieve net-zero emissions from heavy industry and transport. Along with net-zero commitments by growing numbers of governments green hydrogen has started gaining momentum based on low-cost renewable electricity ongoing technological improvements and the benefits of greater power-system flexibility.
Hydrogen-based fuels previously attracted interest mainly as an alternative to shore up oil supply. However green hydrogen as opposed to the “grey” (fossil-based) or “blue” (hybrid) varieties also help to boost renewables in the energy mix and decarbonise energy-intensive industries.
This report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) outlines the main barriers that inhibiting green hydrogen uptake and the policies needed to address these. It also offers insights on how to kickstart the green hydrogen sector as a key enabler of the energy transition at the national or regional level.
Key pillars of green hydrogen policy making include:
Hydrogen-based fuels previously attracted interest mainly as an alternative to shore up oil supply. However green hydrogen as opposed to the “grey” (fossil-based) or “blue” (hybrid) varieties also help to boost renewables in the energy mix and decarbonise energy-intensive industries.
This report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) outlines the main barriers that inhibiting green hydrogen uptake and the policies needed to address these. It also offers insights on how to kickstart the green hydrogen sector as a key enabler of the energy transition at the national or regional level.
Key pillars of green hydrogen policy making include:
- National hydrogen strategy. Each country needs to define its level of ambition for hydrogen outline the amount of support required and provide a reference on hydrogen development for private investment and finance.
- Setting policy priorities. Green hydrogen can support a wide range of end-uses. Policy makers should identify and focus on applications that provide the highest value.
- Guarantees of origin. Carbon emissions should be reflected over the whole lifecycle of hydrogen. Origin schemes need to include clear labels for hydrogen and hydrogen products to increase consumer awareness and facilitate claims of incentives.
- Governance system and enabling policies. As green hydrogen becomes mainstream policies should cover its integration into the broader energy system. Civil society and industry must be involved to maximise the benefits.
- Subsequent briefs will explore the entire hydrogen value chain providing sector-by-sector guidance on the design and implementation of green hydrogen policies.
Potential and Economic Analysis of Solar-to-Hydrogen Production in the Sultanate of Oman
Aug 2021
Publication
Hydrogen production using renewable power is becoming an essential pillar for future sustainable energy sector development worldwide. The Sultanate of Oman is presently integrating renewable power generations with a large share of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The possibility of using the solar potential of the Sultanate can increase energy security and contribute to the development of the sustainable energy sector not only for the country but also for the international community. This study presents the hydrogen production potential using solar resources available in the Sultanate. About 15 locations throughout the Sultanate are considered to assess the hydrogen production opportunity using a solar PV system. A rank of merit order of the locations for producing hydrogen is identified. It reveals that Thumrait and Marmul are the most suitable locations whereas Sur is the least qualified. This study also assesses the economic feasibility of hydrogen production which shows that the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) in the most suitable site Thumrait is 6.31 USD/kg. The LCOH in the least convenient location Sur is 7.32 USD/kg. Finally a sensitivity analysis is performed to reveal the most significant influential factor affecting the future’s green hydrogen production cost. The findings indicate that green hydrogen production using solar power in the Sultanate is promising and the LCOH is consistent with other studies worldwide.
Risk Identification for the Introduction of Advanced Science and Technology: A Case Study of a Hydrogen Energy System for Smooth Social Implementation
May 2020
Publication
A method of risk identification is developed by comparing existing and advanced technologies from the viewpoint of comprehensive social risk. First to analyze these values from a multifaceted perspective we constructed a questionnaire based on 24 individual values and 26 infrastructural values determined in a previous study. Seven engineering experts and six social science experts were then asked to complete the questionnaire to compare and analyze a hydrogen energy system (HES) and a gasoline energy system (GES). Finally the responses were weighted using the analytic hierarchy process. Three important points were identified and focused upon: the distinct disadvantages of the HES compared to the GES judgments that were divided between experts in the engineering and social sciences fields and judgments that were divided among experts in the same field. These are important risks that should be evaluated when making decisions related to the implementation of advanced science and technology.
Hydrogen and Decarbonisation of Gas- False Dawn or Silver Bullet?
Mar 2020
Publication
This Insight continues the OIES series considering the future of gas. The clear message from previous papers is that on the (increasingly certain) assumption that governments in major European gas markets remain committed to decarbonisation targets the existing natural gas industry is under threat. It is therefore important to develop a decarbonisation narrative leading to a low- or zero-carbon gas implementation plan.
Previous papers have considered potential pathways for gas to decarbonise specifically considering biogas and biomethane and power-to-gas (electrolysis) . This paper goes on to consider the potential for production transport and use of hydrogen in the decarbonising energy system. Previous papers predominately focused on Europe which has been leading the way in decarbonisation. Hydrogen is now being considered more widely in various countries around the world so this paper reflects that wider geographical coverage.
Since the term ‘hydrogen economy’ was first used in 1970 there have been a number of ‘false dawns’ with bold claims for the speed of transition to hydrogen. This Insight argues that this time for some applications at least there are grounds for optimism about a future role for decarbonised hydrogen but the lesson from history is that bold claims need to be examined carefully and treated with some caution. There are no easy or low-cost solutions to decarbonisation of the energy system and this is certainly the case for possible deployment of low-carbon hydrogen. A key challenge is to demonstrate the technical commercial economic and social acceptability of various possibilities at scale. Hydrogen will certainly play a role in decarbonisation of the energy system although the size of the role may be more limited than envisaged in some more optimistic projections.
Open document on OIES website
Previous papers have considered potential pathways for gas to decarbonise specifically considering biogas and biomethane and power-to-gas (electrolysis) . This paper goes on to consider the potential for production transport and use of hydrogen in the decarbonising energy system. Previous papers predominately focused on Europe which has been leading the way in decarbonisation. Hydrogen is now being considered more widely in various countries around the world so this paper reflects that wider geographical coverage.
Since the term ‘hydrogen economy’ was first used in 1970 there have been a number of ‘false dawns’ with bold claims for the speed of transition to hydrogen. This Insight argues that this time for some applications at least there are grounds for optimism about a future role for decarbonised hydrogen but the lesson from history is that bold claims need to be examined carefully and treated with some caution. There are no easy or low-cost solutions to decarbonisation of the energy system and this is certainly the case for possible deployment of low-carbon hydrogen. A key challenge is to demonstrate the technical commercial economic and social acceptability of various possibilities at scale. Hydrogen will certainly play a role in decarbonisation of the energy system although the size of the role may be more limited than envisaged in some more optimistic projections.
Open document on OIES website
Hydrogen - Decarbonising Heat
Feb 2020
Publication
<br/>Our industry is beginning its journey on the transition to providing the world with sufficient sustainable affordable and low emission energy.<br/><br/>Decarbonisation is now a key priority. Steps range from reducing emissions from traditional oil and gas operations to investing in renewable energy and supplementing natural gas supplies with greener gasses such as hydrogen.<br/><br/>This paper looks at the role hydrogen could play in decarbonisation.
Hydrogen Transport - Fuelling The Future
Dec 2020
Publication
Through the combustion of fossil fuels the transport sector is responsible for 20-30% of global CO2 emissions. We can support the net-zero one ambition by decarbonising transport modes using green hydrogen fuelled options – hydrogen generated from renewable energy sources such as offshore wind.<br/><br/>We have been working with clients across the hydrogen industry for several years specifically around the generation dispatch and use of hydrogen within energy systems. However interest is swiftly moving to wider hydrogen based solutions including within the fleet rail aviation and maritime sectors.<br/><br/>Our latest ‘Future of Energy’ series explores the opportunity for green fuelled hydrogen transport. We look at each industry in detail the barriers to uptake market conditions and look at how the transport industry could adapt and develop to embrace a net-zero future.
Business Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee Inquiry into Post-Pandemic Economic Growth
Sep 2020
Publication
The Hydrogen Taskforce welcomes the opportunity to submit evidence to the Business Energy and
Industrial Strategy Committee’s inquiry into post-pandemic economic growth.
It is the Taskforce’s view that:
You can download the whole document from the Hydrogen Taskforce website here
Industrial Strategy Committee’s inquiry into post-pandemic economic growth.
It is the Taskforce’s view that:
- Due to its various applications hydrogen is critical for the UK to reach net zero by 2050;
- The UK holds world-class advantages in hydrogen production distribution and application;
- Other economies are moving ahead in the development of this sector and the UK must respond;
- The post pandemic economic recovery planning should reflect the need to achieve deep decarbonisation and support wider objectives such as achieving net zero and levelling up the
- economy; and
- The hydrogen sector is well-placed to play a key role in the UK’s economic recovery with the right policies and financial structures in place.
- Development of a cross departmental UK Hydrogen Strategy within UK Government;
- Commit £1bn of capex funding over the next spending review period to hydrogen production storage and distribution projects;
- Develop a financial support scheme for the production of hydrogen in blending industry power and transport;
- Amend Gas Safety Management Regulations (GSMR) to enable hydrogen blending and take the next steps towards 100 per cent hydrogen heating through supporting public trials and
- mandating 100 per cent hydrogen-ready boilers by 2025; and
- Commit to the support of 100 Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) by 2025 to support the rollout of hydrogen transport.
You can download the whole document from the Hydrogen Taskforce website here
Exploring the Evidence on Potential Issues Associated with Trialling Hydrogen Heating in Communities
Dec 2020
Publication
Replacing natural gas with hydrogen in an everyday setting – piping hydrogen to homes and businesses through the existing gas network – is a new and untested proposition. At the same time piloting this proposition is an essential ingredient to a well-managed low carbon transition.<br/>The Department of Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has commissioned CAG Consultants to undertake a literature review and conduct a set of four focus groups to inform the development of work to assess issues associated with setting up a hypothetical community hydrogen trial. This report sets out the findings from the research and presents reflections on the implications of the findings for any future community hydrogen heating trials.<br/>The literature review was a short focused review aimed at identifying evidence relevant to members of the public being asked to take part in a hypothetical community trial. Based primarily on Quick Scoping Review principles the review involved the analysis of evidence from 26 items of literature. The four focus groups were held in-person in two city locations Manchester and Birmingham in November 2019. They involved consumers who either owned or rented houses (i.e. not flats) connected to the gas grid. Two of the focus groups involved owner-occupiers one was with private landlords and the other was with a mixture of tenants (private social and student).<br/>This report was produced in October 2019 and published in December 2020.
Reaching Zero with Renewables
Sep 2020
Publication
Patrick Akerman,
Pierpaolo Cazzola,
Emma Skov Christiansen,
Renée Van Heusden,
Joanna Kolomanska-van Iperen,
Johannah Christensen,
Kilian Crone,
Keith Dawe,
Guillaume De Smedt,
Alex Keynes,
Anaïs Laporte,
Florie Gonsolin,
Marko Mensink,
Charlotte Hebebrand,
Volker Hoenig,
Chris Malins,
Thomas Neuenhahn,
Ireneusz Pyc,
Andrew Purvis,
Deger Saygin,
Carol Xiao and
Yufeng Yang
Eliminating CO2 emissions from industry and transport in line with the 1.5⁰C climate goal
To avoid catastrophic climate change the world needs to reach zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in all all sectors of the economy by the 2050s. Effective energy decarbonisation presents a major challenge especially in key industry and transport sectors.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has produced a comprehensive study of deep decarbonisation options focused on reaching zero into time to fulfil the Paris Agreement and hold the line on rising global temperatures.
Several sectors stand out as especially hard to decarbonise. Four of the most energy-intensive industries (iron and steel chemicals and petrochemicals cement and lime and aluminium) and three key transport sectors (road freight aviation and shipping) could together account for 38% of energy and process emissions and 43% of final energy use by 2050 without major policy changes now the report finds.
Reaching zero with renewables considers how these sectors could achieve zero emissions by 2060 and assesses the use of renewables and related technologies to achieve this. Decarbonisation options for each sector span efficiency improvements electrification direct heat and fuel production using renewables along with CO2 removal measures.
Without such measures energy and process emissions could amount to 11.4 gigatonnes from industry and 8.6 gigatonnes from transport at mid-century the report indicates. Along with sector-specific actions cross-cutting actions are needed at higher levels.
The report offers ten broad recommendations for industries and governments:
1. Pursue a renewables-based strategy for end-use sectors with an end goal of zero emissions.
2. Develop a shared vision and strategy and co-develop practical roadmaps involving all major players.
3. Build confidence and knowledge among decision makers.
4. Plan and deploy enabling infrastructure early on.
5. Foster early demand for green products and services.
6. Develop tailored approaches to ensure access to finance.
7. Collaborate across borders.
8. Think globally while utilising national strengths.
9. Establish clear pathways for the evolution of regulations and international standards.
10. Support research development and systemic innovation.
With the right plans and sufficient support the goal of reaching zero is achievable the report shows.
To avoid catastrophic climate change the world needs to reach zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in all all sectors of the economy by the 2050s. Effective energy decarbonisation presents a major challenge especially in key industry and transport sectors.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has produced a comprehensive study of deep decarbonisation options focused on reaching zero into time to fulfil the Paris Agreement and hold the line on rising global temperatures.
Several sectors stand out as especially hard to decarbonise. Four of the most energy-intensive industries (iron and steel chemicals and petrochemicals cement and lime and aluminium) and three key transport sectors (road freight aviation and shipping) could together account for 38% of energy and process emissions and 43% of final energy use by 2050 without major policy changes now the report finds.
Reaching zero with renewables considers how these sectors could achieve zero emissions by 2060 and assesses the use of renewables and related technologies to achieve this. Decarbonisation options for each sector span efficiency improvements electrification direct heat and fuel production using renewables along with CO2 removal measures.
Without such measures energy and process emissions could amount to 11.4 gigatonnes from industry and 8.6 gigatonnes from transport at mid-century the report indicates. Along with sector-specific actions cross-cutting actions are needed at higher levels.
The report offers ten broad recommendations for industries and governments:
1. Pursue a renewables-based strategy for end-use sectors with an end goal of zero emissions.
2. Develop a shared vision and strategy and co-develop practical roadmaps involving all major players.
3. Build confidence and knowledge among decision makers.
4. Plan and deploy enabling infrastructure early on.
5. Foster early demand for green products and services.
6. Develop tailored approaches to ensure access to finance.
7. Collaborate across borders.
8. Think globally while utilising national strengths.
9. Establish clear pathways for the evolution of regulations and international standards.
10. Support research development and systemic innovation.
With the right plans and sufficient support the goal of reaching zero is achievable the report shows.
Renewable Energy Policies in a Time of Transition: Heating and Cooling
Nov 2020
Publication
Heating and cooling accounts for almost half of global energy consumption. With most of this relying fossil fuels however it contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. In parts of the world lacking modern energy access meanwhile inefficient biomass use for cooking also harms people’s health damages the environment and reduces social well-being.
The transition to renewable-based energy-efficient heating and cooling could follow several possible pathways depending on energy demand resource availability and the needs and priorities of each country or region. Broad options include electrification with renewable power renewable-based gases (including “green” hydrogen) sustainable bioenergy use and the direct use of solar and geothermal heat.
This report developed jointly by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) outlines the infrastructure and policies needed with each transition pathway. This edition focused on renewable-based heating and cooling follows a broader initial study Renewable Energy Policies in a Time of Transition (IRENA IEA and REN21 2018).
The shift to renewables for heating and cooling requires enabling infrastructure (e.g. gas grids district heating and cooling networks) as well as various combinations of deployment integrating and enabling policies. The policy framework can demonstrate a country’s commitment to the energy transition level the playing field with fossil fuels and create the necessary enabling conditions to attract investments.
Along with highlighting country experiences and best practices the study identifies barriers and highlights policy options for renewable heating and cooling.
Key recommendations include:
The transition to renewable-based energy-efficient heating and cooling could follow several possible pathways depending on energy demand resource availability and the needs and priorities of each country or region. Broad options include electrification with renewable power renewable-based gases (including “green” hydrogen) sustainable bioenergy use and the direct use of solar and geothermal heat.
This report developed jointly by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) outlines the infrastructure and policies needed with each transition pathway. This edition focused on renewable-based heating and cooling follows a broader initial study Renewable Energy Policies in a Time of Transition (IRENA IEA and REN21 2018).
The shift to renewables for heating and cooling requires enabling infrastructure (e.g. gas grids district heating and cooling networks) as well as various combinations of deployment integrating and enabling policies. The policy framework can demonstrate a country’s commitment to the energy transition level the playing field with fossil fuels and create the necessary enabling conditions to attract investments.
Along with highlighting country experiences and best practices the study identifies barriers and highlights policy options for renewable heating and cooling.
Key recommendations include:
- Setting specific targets and developing an integrated long-term plan for the decarbonisation of heating and cooling in all end-uses including buildings industry and cooking and productive uses in areas with limited energy access.
- Creating a level playing field by phasing out fossil-fuel subsidies and introducing other fiscal policies to internalise environmental and socio-economic costs.
- Combining the electrification of heating and cooling with increasingly cost-competitive renewable power generation scaling up solar and wind use and boosting system flexibility via energy storage heat pumps and efficient electric appliances.
- Harnessing existing gas networks to accommodate renewable gases such as biogas and green hydrogen.
- Introducing standards certification and testing policies to promote the sustainable use of biomass combining efficient systems and bioenergy solutions such as pellets briquettes bioethanol or anaerobic digestion.
- Reducing investment risks for geothermal exploration and scaling up direct use of geothermal heat.
- Improving district heating and cooling networks through energy efficiency measures and the integration of low-temperature solar thermal geothermal and other renewable-based heat sources.
- Supporting clean cooking and introducing renewable-based food drying in areas lacking energy access with a combination of financing mechanisms capacity building and quality standards aimed at improving livelihoods and maximising socio-economic benefits.
Navigating Algeria Towards a Sustainable Green Hydrogen Future to Empower North Africa and Europe's Clean Hydrogen Transition
Mar 2024
Publication
Algeria richly-endowed with renewable resources is well-positioned to become a vital green hydrogen provider to Europe. Aiming to aid policymakers stakeholders and energy sector participants this study embodies the first effort in literature to investigate the viability and cost-effectiveness of implementing green hydrogen production projects destined for exports to Europe via existing pipelines. A land suitability analysis utilizing multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) coupled with geographical information system (GIS) identified that over 43.55% of Algeria is highly-suitable for hydrogen production. Five optimal locations were investigated utilizing Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Electric Renewables (HOMER) with solar-hydrogen proving the most cost-effective option. Wind-based production offering higher output volumes reaching 968 kg/h requires turbine cost reductions of 17.50% (Ain Salah) to 54.50% (Djanet) to achieve a competitive levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of $3.85/kg with PV systems. A techno-economic sensitivity analysis was conducted identifying Djanet as the most promising location for a 100 MW solar-hydrogen plant with a competitive LCOH ranging from $1.96/kg to $4.85/kg.
The Future of Gas Networks – Key Issues for Debate
Sep 2019
Publication
The Oxford Institute for Energy Studies held a Workshop on “The Future of Gas Networks” to examine decarbonisation plans and the impact of the potential growth in the use of renewable and decarbonised gases in Europe. Participants included representatives from nine European gas network companies (both transmission and distribution) technical experts in decarbonisation regulators government officials and academics. This document summarises the seven key issues for debate arising from the Workshop discussions:
- The major gas networks recognise the need to prepare for and facilitate decarbonisation.
- The route to decarbonisation can take many forms though hydrogen is likely to feature in most networks. In larger countries solutions are likely to be regional rather than national.
- There are a number of pilot projects and targets/aspirations for 2050 – there is less clarity on how the targets will be achieved or on who will lead.
- Regulation is a key issue. In most countries existing regulatory objectives may need changing in order to align with government decarbonisation aspirations and the achievement of targets.
- There is a lack of consensus on whether and how market models might need to adapt.
- Detailed stakeholder analysis – and in particular customer attitudes – will be required.
- There are a range of important technical issues including standardisation data quality and transparency verification and certification to be considered.
The Future of Gas Infrastructure Remuneration in Spain
Oct 2019
Publication
The European Union (EU) has adopted ambitious decarbonization targets for 2050.
Renewable electricity and electrification are the key drivers but are not sufficient on their own to meet the targets. A number of countries expect decarbonized gas (e.g. renewable hydrogen and biomethane) to be part of a future decarbonized energy system.
Within that context this paper examines proposals recently issued by Spain’s energy regulator (CNMC) to define the methodology for remunerating gas distribution and transmission networks and LNG regasification terminals. Their proposals would reduce significantly the remuneration of these activities. Bearing in mind the objective of decarbonization this paper analyzes key features of the proposals and concludes with recommendations. We suggest:
Link to document on OIES website
Renewable electricity and electrification are the key drivers but are not sufficient on their own to meet the targets. A number of countries expect decarbonized gas (e.g. renewable hydrogen and biomethane) to be part of a future decarbonized energy system.
Within that context this paper examines proposals recently issued by Spain’s energy regulator (CNMC) to define the methodology for remunerating gas distribution and transmission networks and LNG regasification terminals. Their proposals would reduce significantly the remuneration of these activities. Bearing in mind the objective of decarbonization this paper analyzes key features of the proposals and concludes with recommendations. We suggest:
- Adoption of a common methodology for remunerating new investment in gas and electricity infrastructure assets. The Regulatory Asset Base (RAB) approach is a suitable methodology especially for high-risk investment to integrate hydrogen.
- CNMC reconsideration of its proposals for existing assets. The aim should be to ensure that even if remuneration is reduced to some extent investors will still be compensated adequately and that the companies will continue to support the investments needed to digitalize processes deliver natural gas and eventually deliver renewable gas where it is economic to do so. This is an important signal for current and future investors whose investments will be regulated by the CNMC.
- Clarification of the methodology for remunerating renewable gas facilities. If renewable gas (especially hydrogen) requires access to regulated gas networks the CNMC methodology must provide suitable incentives to invest in network expansion and upgrading as required as well as to maintain natural gas operations. Even if no decision is made in the short-term regarding hydrogen it would be prudent to leave the door open by making the regulation compatible with future decisions involving hydrogen development.
- Consideration of potentially stranded assets. The CNMC and the Government should coordinate over the remuneration of infrastructure assets when national policy decisions may lead to the stranding of these assets.
- Decarbonization of the energy system as a whole. The CNMC and the Government should consider how best to promote the decarbonization of the energy system as a whole rather than its individual parts and what role is to be played by regulated networks and by unregulated initiatives in competitive markets especially for the development of hydrogen systems.
Link to document on OIES website
Willingness to Pay and Public Acceptance for Hydrogen Buses: A Case Study of Perugia
Sep 2015
Publication
Sustainability transportation is characterized by a positive externality on the environment health social security land use and social inclusion. The increasing interest in global warming has caused attention to be paid to the introduction of the hydrogen bus (H2B). When introducing new environmental technologies such as H2B it is often necessary to assess the environmental benefits related to this new technology. However such benefits are typically non-priced due to their public good nature. Therefore we have to address this problem using the contingent valuation (CV) method. This method has been developed within environmental economics as a means to economically assess environmental changes which are typically not traded in the market. So far several big cities have been analyzed to evaluate the perceived benefit related to H2B introduction but to the best of our knowledge no one has performed a CV analysis of a historical city where smog also damages historical buildings. This paper presents the results obtained using a multi-wave survey. We have investigated user preferences to elicit their willingness to pay for H2B introduction in Perugia taking into account all types of negative externalities due to the traffic pollution. The results confirm that residents in Perugia are willing to pay extra to support the introduction of H2B.
When and How to Regulate Hydrogen Networks?
Feb 2021
Publication
This European Green Deal Regulatory White Paper provides the views of Europe’s energy regulators represented by ACER and CEER on when and how to regulate the hydrogen networks in the future.
With the EU goal of becoming a carbon neutral continent by 2050 hydrogen is set to play a key role in decarbonising Europe's economy.
To realise the European Green Deal's ambitions for hydrogen the right regulatory framework must be created to facilitate a hydrogen economy in a cost-effective way.
European energy regulators (ACER and CEER) have published a set of recommendations on when and how to regulate pure hydrogen networks. The need and scope of hydrogen network regulation will depend on its structure and evolution.
This paper is the first in our new series of ACER-CEER European Green Deal Regulatory White Papers. This hydrogen paper examines:
The aim is to deepen understanding on the regulatory aspects of Green Deal issues and to assist the European Commission in assessing various options as part of the preparations for legislation on hydrogen and energy system integration. With the EU goal of becoming a carbon neutral continent by 2050 hydrogen is set to play a key role in decarbonising Europe's economy.
The Full report can be found on the ACER website
With the EU goal of becoming a carbon neutral continent by 2050 hydrogen is set to play a key role in decarbonising Europe's economy.
To realise the European Green Deal's ambitions for hydrogen the right regulatory framework must be created to facilitate a hydrogen economy in a cost-effective way.
European energy regulators (ACER and CEER) have published a set of recommendations on when and how to regulate pure hydrogen networks. The need and scope of hydrogen network regulation will depend on its structure and evolution.
This paper is the first in our new series of ACER-CEER European Green Deal Regulatory White Papers. This hydrogen paper examines:
- The circumstances under which regulating hydrogen networks is needed;
- How to treat existing hydrogen network infrastructure;
- How to address regulatory challenges related to the repurposing of gas infrastructure for dedicated hydrogen transport.
The aim is to deepen understanding on the regulatory aspects of Green Deal issues and to assist the European Commission in assessing various options as part of the preparations for legislation on hydrogen and energy system integration. With the EU goal of becoming a carbon neutral continent by 2050 hydrogen is set to play a key role in decarbonising Europe's economy.
The Full report can be found on the ACER website
Potential of New Business Models for Grid Integrated Water Electrolysis
Feb 2018
Publication
Grid integrated water electrolysers have the potential of coupling electric power systems subjected to high shares of renewable energy sources with sectors of hydrogen demand thus contributing to European decarbonization goals in future. We therefore investigate the business potential of future electrolyser applications in cross-commodity arbitrage trading by applying a complex power market simulation method for future scenarios and different European countries. Based on this we evaluate the potential of additional provision of grid services towards grid operators in order to increase the electrolyser utilization ratio. For this we use a method that identifies measures of transmission grid operators in order to ensure secure grid operation. In this context uncertain hydrogen prices and different sectors of hydrogen demand are addressed through sensitivities of different hydrogen sales prices. The analysis shows a high dependency of business model efficiency on the hydrogen price. While cross-commodity arbitrage trading can achieve profitability for the transportation sector applications for the industry sector and natural gas system are less efficient. The results however indicate that for these less efficient applications grid service provision can be an option of increasing the electrolyser utilization ratio thus increasing its profitability.
Role of batteries and fuel cells in achieving Net Zero: Session 2
Mar 2021
Publication
The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee will hear from leading researchers about anticipated developments in batteries and fuel cells over the next ten years that could contribute to meeting the net-zero target.
The Committee continues its inquiry into the Role of batteries and fuel cells in achieving Net Zero. It will ask a panel of experts about batteries hearing about the current state-of-the-art in technologies that are currently in deployment primarily lithium-ion batteries. It will also explore the potential of next generation technologies currently in development and the challenges in scaling them up to manufacture.
The Committee will then question a second panel about fuel cells hearing about the different types available and their applications. It will explore challenges that need to be overcome in the development of the technology and will consider the UK’s international standing in the sector.
Meeting details
At 10.00am: Oral evidence
Professor Serena Corr Chair in Functional Nanomaterials and Director of Research Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at University of Sheffield
Professor Paul Shearing Professor in Chemical Engineering at University College London
Dr Jerry Barker Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Faradion Limited
Dr Melanie Loveridge Associate Professor Warwick Manufacturing Group at University of Warwick
At 11.00am: Oral evidence
Professor Andrea Russell Professor of Physical Electrochemistry at University of Southampton
Professor Anthony Kucernak Professor of Physical Chemistry Faculty of Natural Sciences at Imperial College London
Professor John Irvine Professor School of Chemistry at University of St Andrews
Possible questions
Parliament TV video of the meeting
This is part two of a three part enquiry.
Part one can be found here and part three can be found here.
The Committee continues its inquiry into the Role of batteries and fuel cells in achieving Net Zero. It will ask a panel of experts about batteries hearing about the current state-of-the-art in technologies that are currently in deployment primarily lithium-ion batteries. It will also explore the potential of next generation technologies currently in development and the challenges in scaling them up to manufacture.
The Committee will then question a second panel about fuel cells hearing about the different types available and their applications. It will explore challenges that need to be overcome in the development of the technology and will consider the UK’s international standing in the sector.
Meeting details
At 10.00am: Oral evidence
Professor Serena Corr Chair in Functional Nanomaterials and Director of Research Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at University of Sheffield
Professor Paul Shearing Professor in Chemical Engineering at University College London
Dr Jerry Barker Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Faradion Limited
Dr Melanie Loveridge Associate Professor Warwick Manufacturing Group at University of Warwick
At 11.00am: Oral evidence
Professor Andrea Russell Professor of Physical Electrochemistry at University of Southampton
Professor Anthony Kucernak Professor of Physical Chemistry Faculty of Natural Sciences at Imperial College London
Professor John Irvine Professor School of Chemistry at University of St Andrews
Possible questions
- What contribution are battery and fuel cell technologies currently making towards decarbonization in the UK?
- What advances do we expect to see in battery and fuel cell technologies and over what timeframes?
- How quickly can UK battery and fuel cell manufacture be scaled up to meet electrification demands?
- What are the challenges facing technological innovation and deployment in heavy transport?
- Are there any sectors where battery and fuel cell technologies are not currently used but could contribute to decarbonisation?
- What are the life cycle environmental impacts of batteries and fuel cells?
Parliament TV video of the meeting
This is part two of a three part enquiry.
Part one can be found here and part three can be found here.
2020 It's Time To Get Real
Mar 2020
Publication
Gi Editor Sharon Baker-Hallam sits down with Chris Stark CEO of the Committee on Climate Change to talk about this year’s Sir Denis Rooke Memorial Lecture the economic opportunities to be found in going green and why 2020 is a critical year in the ongoing battle against rising global temperatures
Unpacking Leadership-driven Global Scenarios Towards the Paris Agreement: Report Prepared for the UK Committee on Climate Change
Dec 2020
Publication
Outline
This independent report by Vivid Economics and University College London was commissioned to support the Climate Change Committee’s (CCC) 2020 report The Sixth Carbon Budget -The path to Net Zero. This research provided supporting information for Chapter 7 of the CCC’s report which considered the UK’s contribution to the global goals of the Paris Agreement.
Key recommendations
The report models ‘leadership-driven’ global scenarios that could reduce global emissions rapidly to Net Zero and analyses the levers available to developed countries such as the UK to help accelerate various key aspects of the required global transition.
It highlights a set of opportunities for the UK alongside other developed countries to help assist global decarbonisation efforts alongside achieving it’s domestic emissions reduction targets
This independent report by Vivid Economics and University College London was commissioned to support the Climate Change Committee’s (CCC) 2020 report The Sixth Carbon Budget -The path to Net Zero. This research provided supporting information for Chapter 7 of the CCC’s report which considered the UK’s contribution to the global goals of the Paris Agreement.
Key recommendations
The report models ‘leadership-driven’ global scenarios that could reduce global emissions rapidly to Net Zero and analyses the levers available to developed countries such as the UK to help accelerate various key aspects of the required global transition.
It highlights a set of opportunities for the UK alongside other developed countries to help assist global decarbonisation efforts alongside achieving it’s domestic emissions reduction targets
Options for Multilateral Initiatives to Close the Global 2030 Climate Ambition and Action Gap - Policy Field Synthetic E-fuels
Jan 2021
Publication
Achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement requires increased global climate action especially towards the production and use of synthetic e-fuels. This paper focuses on aviation and maritime transport and the role of green hydrogen for indirect electrification of industry sectors. Based on a sound analysis of existing multilateral cooperation the paper proposes four potential initiatives to increase climate ambition of the G20 countries in the respective policy field: a Sustainable e-Kerosene Alliance a Sustainable e-fuel Alliance for Maritime Shipping a Hard-to-Abate Sector Partnership and a Global Supply-demand-partnership.
The full report can be found here on the Umweltbundesamt website
The full report can be found here on the Umweltbundesamt website
Economic and Technical Analysis of Power to Gas Factory Taking Karamay as an Example
May 2022
Publication
Power to gas (PTG) refers to the technology of converting power into energy-storage gas which can absorb excess power when there is excess power and release energy-storage gas when needed. Based on the carbon dioxide (CO2 ) emission of Karamay City in Northwest China this study designed a process flow of the CO2 absorption process and the hydrogen and CO2 methanation process in PTG technology. The results show that the efficiency of the CO2 absorption process was 91.5% and the methanation efficiency was 77.5%. The heat recovery module was set during the process and the total heat recovered was 17.85 MW. The cost of producing synthetic natural gas (SNG) in the PTG factory was 1782 USD/ton. In terms of cost the cost of hydrogen production from electrolyzed water accounted for the largest proportion. In terms of product profit the sale of pure oxygen was the largest part of the profit. At present the carbon emission reduction index profit brought by SNG production accounted for a small proportion. In the future with technological progress industrial upgrading and the improvement in the carbon trading market PTG technology is expected to become one of the ways to achieve carbon-emission-reduction targets.
Carbons Formed in Methane Thermal and Thermocatalytic Decomposition Processes: Properties and Applications
Jun 2021
Publication
The hydrogen economy will play a key role in future energy systems. Several thermal and catalytic methods for hydrogen production have been presented. In this review methane thermocatalytic and thermal decomposition into hydrogen gas and solid carbon are considered. These processes known as the thermal decomposition of methane (TDM) and thermocatalytic decomposition (TCD) of methane respectively appear to have the greatest potential for hydrogen production. In particular the focus is on the different types and properties of carbons formed during the decomposition processes. The applications for carbons are also investigated.
The Role of Hydrogen in Powering Industry: APPG on Hydrogen report
Jul 2021
Publication
The APPG on Hydrogen has published its report urging the Government to deliver beyond its existing net zero commitments and set ambitious hydrogen targets in forthcoming strategies to reach net zero by 2050.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Hydrogen’s report on the role of ‘Hydrogen in powering industry’ sets out 10 recommendations to support and accelerate the growth of the UK’s hydrogen sector and enable a sustainable energy transition.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Hydrogen’s report on the role of ‘Hydrogen in powering industry’ sets out 10 recommendations to support and accelerate the growth of the UK’s hydrogen sector and enable a sustainable energy transition.
- The Government must continue to expand beyond its existing commitments of 5GW production in the forthcoming Hydrogen Strategy.
- Any forthcoming Government and devolved policies must be complementary of the wider UK low-carbon commitments.
- Industrial clusters should be prioritised for hydrogen use and will be the key catalyst for driving forward the UK’s decarbonisation of industry.
- The Government must commit to incentivising hydrogen production within the UK as opposed to importing this.
- The Government must align hydrogen production pathways with nuclear technology to enhance hydrogen production.
- The Government must develop a UK wide hydrogen network to support the transport sector including a larger-scale implementation of hydrogen refuelling stations.
- Regulators must act quickly to update energy regulations and guidance to support hydrogen’s role in powering industry.
- For hydrogen to expand in the UK a technology neutral approach is required for all types of energy systems.
- Significant and long-term financial support is required for the development deployment and operation of hydrogen technologies.
- Ofgem must ensure the hydrogen market is subject to effective competition to drive down prices for consumers.
Technology Investment Roadmap- Global Leadership in Low Emissions Technologies
Sep 2020
Publication
Australia’s Technology Investment Roadmap is a strategy to accelerate development and commercialisation of low emissions technologies.
Annual low emissions statements are key milestones of the roadmap process. These statements prioritise low emissions technologies with potential to deliver the strongest economic and emissions reduction outcomes for Australia. They focus government investment on new and emerging technologies.
In this Statement
The first Low Emissions Technology Statement presents a vision of a prosperous Australia recognised as a global low emissions technology leader.
Annual low emissions statements are key milestones of the roadmap process. These statements prioritise low emissions technologies with potential to deliver the strongest economic and emissions reduction outcomes for Australia. They focus government investment on new and emerging technologies.
In this Statement
The first Low Emissions Technology Statement presents a vision of a prosperous Australia recognised as a global low emissions technology leader.
- priority technologies and economic stretch goals
- Australia’s big technology challenges and opportunities
- Technology Investment Framework
- monitoring transparency and impact evaluation
Technology Investment Roadmap First Low Emissions Technology Statement – 2020 Global Leadership in Low Emissions Technologies
Sep 2020
Publication
Australia’s Technology Investment Roadmap is a strategy to accelerate development and commercialisation of low emissions technologies.
Annual low emissions statements are key milestones of the roadmap process. These statements prioritise low emissions technologies with potential to deliver the strongest economic and emissions reduction outcomes for Australia. They focus government investment on new and emerging technologies.
In this Statement
The first Low Emissions Technology Statement presents a vision of a prosperous Australia recognised as a global low emissions technology leader
Annual low emissions statements are key milestones of the roadmap process. These statements prioritise low emissions technologies with potential to deliver the strongest economic and emissions reduction outcomes for Australia. They focus government investment on new and emerging technologies.
In this Statement
The first Low Emissions Technology Statement presents a vision of a prosperous Australia recognised as a global low emissions technology leader
- priority technologies and economic stretch goals
- Australia’s big technology challenges and opportunities
- Technology Investment Framework
- monitoring transparency and impact evaluation
Greenhouse Gas Abatement in EUROPE—A Scenario-Based, Bottom-Up Analysis Showing the Effect of Deep Emission Mitigation on the European Energy System
Feb 2022
Publication
Greenhouse gas emissions need to be drastically reduced to mitigate the environmental impacts caused by climate change and to lead to a transformation of the European energy system. A model landscape consisting of four final energy consumption sector models with high spatial (NUTS-3) and temporal (hourly) resolution and the multi-energy system model ISAaR is extended and applied to investigate the transformation pathway of the European energy sector in the deep emission mitigation scenario solidEU. The solidEU scenario describes not only the techno-economic but also the socio-political contexts and it includes the EU27 + UK Norway and Switzerland. The scenario analysis shows that volatile renewable energy sources (vRES) dominate the energy system in 2050. In addition the share of flexible sector coupling technologies increases to balance electricity generation from vRES. Seasonal differences are balanced by hydrogen storage with a seasonal storage profile. The deployment rates of vRES in solidEU show that a fast profound energy transition is necessary to achieve European climate protection goals.
H2ero Net Zero: Hydrogen Europe Position Paper on the Fit for 55 Package
Jun 2021
Publication
Hydrogen has seen unprecedented development in the year 2020. From innovative niche technology it is fast becoming a systemic element in the European Union’s (EU) efforts to transition to a climate-neutral society in 2050. It will become a crucial energy vector and the other leg of the energy transition – alongside renewable electricity – by replacing coal oil and gas across different segments of the economy. The rapid development of hydrogen is important for meeting the EU’s climate objectives and preserving and enhancing the EU’s industrial and economic competitiveness securing jobs and value creation in this high-tech sector.
Europe is currently leading in hydrogen technology and European companies and knowledge institutions can be instrumental in advancing technological developments and industrial scale-up. It is imperative that Europe maintains this leadership position and seizes the current momentum for hydrogen technologies. The EU is well placed to become the birthplace of a global hydrogen economy denominated in Euro currency.
It is time that hydrogen moves from an afterthought to a central pillar of the energy system. The “Fit for 55 Package” presents a unique opportunity to begin putting into place a concrete and fit for purpose framework for the development of a clean hydrogen economy. In this paper you will find Hydrogen Europe’s recommendations on how hydrogen can:
Europe is currently leading in hydrogen technology and European companies and knowledge institutions can be instrumental in advancing technological developments and industrial scale-up. It is imperative that Europe maintains this leadership position and seizes the current momentum for hydrogen technologies. The EU is well placed to become the birthplace of a global hydrogen economy denominated in Euro currency.
It is time that hydrogen moves from an afterthought to a central pillar of the energy system. The “Fit for 55 Package” presents a unique opportunity to begin putting into place a concrete and fit for purpose framework for the development of a clean hydrogen economy. In this paper you will find Hydrogen Europe’s recommendations on how hydrogen can:
- Unleash the potential of renewables.
- Bring “efficiency” to the energy “system” of the future.
- Enable a carbon-neutral transport system.
Australian and Global Hydrogen Demand Growth Scenario Analysis
Nov 2019
Publication
Deloitte was commissioned by the National Hydrogen Taskforce established by the COAG Energy Council to undertake an Australian and Global Growth Scenario Analysis. Deloitte analysed the current global hydrogen industry its development and growth potential and how Australia can position itself to best capitalise on the newly forming industry.
To conceptualise the possibilities for Australia Deloitte created scenarios to model the realm of possibilities for Australia out to 2050 focusing on identifying the scope and distribution of economic and environmental costs and benefits from Australian hydrogen industry development. This work will aid in analysing the opportunities and challenges to hydrogen industry development in Australia and the actions needed to overcome barriers to industry growth manage risks and best drive industry development.
The full report is available on the Deloitte website at this link
To conceptualise the possibilities for Australia Deloitte created scenarios to model the realm of possibilities for Australia out to 2050 focusing on identifying the scope and distribution of economic and environmental costs and benefits from Australian hydrogen industry development. This work will aid in analysing the opportunities and challenges to hydrogen industry development in Australia and the actions needed to overcome barriers to industry growth manage risks and best drive industry development.
The full report is available on the Deloitte website at this link
Hydrogen Act Towards the creation of the European Hydrogen Economy
Apr 2021
Publication
It is time that hydrogen moves from an afterthought to a central pillar of the energy system and its key role in delivering climate neutrality means it merits a dedicated framework. It becomes paramount to allow hydrogen to express its full potential as the other leg of the energy mobility and industry transitions. The proposed “Hydrogen Act” is not a single piece of legislation it is intended to be a vision for an umbrella framework aimed at harmonising and integrating all separate hydrogen-related actions and legislations. It focuses on infrastructure and market aspects describing three phases of development: the kick-start phase the ramp-up phase and the market-growth phase.
Hydrogen in Grid Balancing: The European Market Potential for Pressurized Alkaline Electrolyzers
Jan 2022
Publication
To limit the global temperature change to no more than 2 ◦C by reducing global emissions the European Union (EU) set up a goal of a 20% improvement on energy efficiency a 20% cut of greenhouse gas emissions and a 20% share of energy from renewable sources by 2020 (10% share of renewable energy (RE) specifically in the transport sector). By 2030 the goal is a 27% improvement in energy efficiency a 40% cut of greenhouse gas emissions and a 27% share of RE. However the integration of RE in energy system faces multiple challenges. The geographical distribution of energy supply changes significantly the availability of the primary energy source (wind solar water) and is the determining factor rather than where the consumers are. This leads to an increasing demand to match supply and demand for power. Especially intermittent RE like wind and solar power face the issue of energy production unrelated to demand (issue of excess energy production beyond demand and/or grid capacity) and forecast errors leading to an increasing demand for grid services like balancing power. Megawatt electrolyzer units (beyond 3 MW) can provide a technical solution to convert large amounts of excess electricity into hydrogen for industrial applications substitute for natural gas or the decarbonization of the mobility sector. The demonstration of successful MW electrolyzer operation providing grid services under dynamic conditions as request by the grid can broaden the opportunities of new business models that demonstrate the profitability of an electrolyzer in these market conditions. The aim of this work is the demonstration of a technical solution utilizing Pressurized Alkaline Electrolyzer (PAE) technology for providing grid balancing services and harvesting Renewable Energy Sources (RES) under realistic circumstances. In order to identify any differences between local market and grid requirements the work focused on a demonstration site located in Austria deemed as a viable business case for the operation of a largescale electrolyzer. The site is adapted to specific local conditions commonly found throughout Europe. To achieve this this study uses a market-based solution that aims at providing value-adding services and cash inflows stemming from the grid balancing services it provides. Moreover the work assesses the viability of various business cases by analyzing (qualitatively and quantitatively) additional business models (in terms of business opportunities/energy source potential grid service provision and hydrogen demand) and analyzing the value and size of the markets developing recommendations for relevant stakeholder to decrease market barriers.
Planning and Operational Aspects of Individual and Clustered Multi-Energy Microgrid Options
Feb 2022
Publication
With the restructuring of the power system household-level end users are becoming more prominent participants by integrating renewable energy sources and smart devices and becoming flexible prosumers. The use of microgrids is a way of aggregating local end users into a single entity and catering for the consumption needs of shareholders. Various microgrid architectures are the result of the local energy community following different decarbonisation strategies and are frequently not optimised in terms of size technology or other influential factors for energy systems. This paper discusses the operational and planning aspects of three different microgrid setups looking at them as individual market participants within a local electricity market. This kind of implementation enables mutual trade between microgrids without additional charges where they can provide flexibility and balance for one another. The developed models take into account multiple uncertainties arising from photovoltaic production day-ahead electricity prices and electricity load. A total number of nine case studies and sensitivity analyses are presented from daily operation to the annual planning perspective. The systematic study of different microgrid setups operational principles/goals and cooperation mechanisms provides a clear understanding of operational and planning benefits: the electrification strategy of decarbonising microgrids outperforms gas and hydrogen technologies by a significant margin. The value of coupling different types of multi-energy microgrids with the goal of joint market participation was not proven to be better on a yearly level compared to the operation of same technology-type microgrids. Additional analyses focus on introducing distribution and transmission fees to an MG cooperation model and allow us to come to the conclusion of there being a minor impact on the overall operation.
Challenges to the Future of LNG: Decarbonisation, Affordability, and Profitability
Oct 2019
Publication
Decarbonisation should be very much on the radar of new LNG projects currently taking FID commissioning around 2024-25 and planning to operate up to 2050. The LNG community needs to replace an `advocacy’ message – based on the generality of emissions from combustion of natural gas being lower than from other fossil fuels – with certified data on carbon and methane emissions from specific elements of the value chain for individual projects. As carbon reduction targets tighten over the coming decade LNG cargoes which do not have value chain emissions certified by accredited authorities or which fail to meet defined emission levels run the risk of progressively being deemed to have a lower commercial value and eventually being excluded from jurisdictions with the strictest standards. There will be no place in this process for confidentiality; nothing less than complete transparency of data and methodologies will be acceptable.<br/>In relation to affordability prospects for new projects look much better than they did three years ago. Cost estimates for most new projects suggest that they will be able to deliver profitably to most established and anticipated import markets at or below the wholesale prices prevailing in those markets over the past decade although affordability in south Asian countries may be challenging. But new projects need to factor in costs related to future decarbonisation requirements in both exporting and importing countries. To the extent that LNG suppliers can meet standards through relatively low-cost offsets – forest projects low-cost biogas and biomethane – this may not greatly impact their commercial viability. However any requirement to transform methane into hydrogen with CCS in either the exporting or importing country would substantially impact project economics and the affordability of LNG relative to other energy choices.
Analysis of Strategic Directions in Sustainable Hydrogen Investment Decisions
Jun 2020
Publication
This study seeks to find the appropriate strategies necessary to make sustainable and effective hydrogen energy investments. Within this scope nine different criteria are defined regarding social managerial and financial factors. A hesitant interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy (IVIF) decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methodology is considered to calculate the degree of importance of the criteria. Additionally impact relation maps are also generated to visualize the causality relationship between the factors. The findings indicate that the technical dimension has the greatest importance in comparison to managerial and financial factors. Furthermore it is also concluded that storage and logistics research and development and technological infrastructure are the most significant factors to be considered when defining hydrogen energy investment strategies. Hence before investing in hydrogen energy necessary actions should be taken to minimize the storage and logistic costs. Among them building the production site close to the usage area will contribute significantly to this purpose. In this way possible losses during the transportation of hydrogen can be minimized. Moreover it is essential to identify the lowest-cost hydrogen storage method by carrying out the necessary research and development activities thereby increasing the sustainability and effectiveness of hydrogen energy investment projects.
EU Hydrogen Vision: Regulatory Opportunities and Challenges
Sep 2020
Publication
This Insight provides an overview of the recent EU Commission Hydrogen Strategy Energy System Integration Strategy and Industrial Strategy focusing on regulatory issues impacting hydrogen. It looks at the proposed classification and preferences for different sources of hydrogen financial and regulatory support for development of hydrogen supply demand and infrastructure as well as potential regulation of hydrogen markets. Whilst the Hydrogen Strategy underlines the need for hydrogen to decarbonise the economy the Insight concludes that the EU has shown a clear preference for hydrogen based on renewable electricity at the expense of low carbon hydrogen from natural gas even though it recognises the need for low carbon hydrogen. In addition further detail is required on the support mechanisms and regulatory framework if development of new hydrogen value chain is to succeed. Lastly there is little sign that the Commission recognises the change in regulatory approach from the current natural gas framework which will be needed because of the different challenges facing the development of a hydrogen market.
Paper can be downloaded on their website
Paper can be downloaded on their website
Policy-driven, Narrative-based Evidence Gathering: UK Priorities for Decarbonisation Through Biomass
May 2015
Publication
Evidence-based policy-making has been a much-debated concept. This paper builds on various insights for a novel perspective: policy-driven narrative-based evidence gathering. In a case study of UK priority setting for bioenergy innovation documents and interviews were analysed to identify links between diagnoses of the problem societal visions policy narratives and evidence gathering. This process is illuminated by the theoretical concept of sociotechnical imaginaries—technoscientific projects which the state should promote for a feasible desirable future. Results suggest that evidence has been selectively generated and gathered within a specific future vision whereby bioenergy largely provides an input-substitute within the incumbent centralised infrastructure. Such evidence is attributed to an external expertise thus helping to legitimise the policy framework. Evidence has helped to substantiate policy commitments to expand bioenergy. The dominant narrative has been reinforced by the government’s multi-stakeholder consultation favouring the incumbent industry and by incentive structures for industry co-investment.
100% Renewable Energy in Japan
Feb 2022
Publication
Low-cost solar photovoltaics and wind offer a reliable and affordable pathway to deep decarbonization of energy which accounts for three quarters of global emissions. However large-scale deployment of solar photovoltaics and wind requires space and may be challenging for countries with dense population and high per capita energy consumption. This study investigates the future role of renewable energy in Japan as a case study. A 40-year hourly energy balance model is presented of a hypothetical 100% renewable Japanese electricity system using representative demand data and historical meteorological data. Pumped hydro energy storage high voltage interconnection and dispatchable capacity (existing hydro and biomass and hydrogen energy produced from curtailed electricity) are included to balance variable generation and demand. Differential evolution is used to find the least-cost solution under various constraints. This study shows that Japan has 14 times more solar and offshore wind resources than needed to supply 100% renewable electricity and vast capacity for off-river pumped hydro energy storage. Assuming significant cost reductions of solar photovoltaics and offshore wind towards global norms in the coming decades driven by large-scale deployment locally and global convergence of renewable generation costs the levelized cost of electricity is found to be US$86/Megawatt-hour for a solar-dominated system and US$110/Megawatt-hour for a wind-dominated system. These costs can be compared with 2020 average system prices on the spot market in Japan of US$102/Megawatt-hour. Cost of balancing 100% renewable electricity in Japan ranges between US$20–27/Megawatt-hour for a range of scenarios. In summary Japan can be self-sufficient for electricity supply at competitive costs provided that the barriers to the mass deployment of solar photovoltaics and offshore wind in Japan are overcome.
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