Governments Must Take Bolder Action to Stimulate Low-Emissions Hydrogen Demand – IEA
A Growing Role for Hydrogen in the Global Energy Transition
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that governments must take stronger action to stimulate demand for low-emissions hydrogen if the world is to meet its climate change goals. The agency’s latest report highlights the potential of hydrogen to play a key role in the global energy transition, but notes that significant progress is needed to unlock its full potential.
Challenges and Opportunities
The IEA notes that while there has been significant growth in the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency in recent years, the pace of progress is not yet sufficient to meet the 2°C target set by the Paris Agreement. Hydrogen, as a low-carbon energy carrier, has the potential to play a crucial role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. However, the technology is still in its early stages, and significant investment is required to overcome the challenges and barriers that hinder its development.
Policies and Incentives
The IEA recommends a range of policies and incentives to stimulate the development and deployment of low-emissions hydrogen. These include:
- Subsidies for early deployers to help reduce the high costs associated with building the first-of-a-kind infrastructure and production facilities.
- Pinders for low-emissions hydrogen production to provide a low-carbon source of energy for industrial processes and power generation.
- Incentives for consumer adoption to encourage the use of low-emissions hydrogen in transportation and industry.
- Rules and standards to ensure safety, compatibility, and interoperability across different systems and regions.
Emerging Opportunities
The IEA identifies several emerging opportunities for low-emissions hydrogen, including:
- Transportation – Hydrogen-powered vehicles, such as fuel cell electric vehicles, have the potential to replace traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
- Industrial processes – Low-emissions hydrogen can be used to power industrial processes, such as cement production and steel manufacture, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Dispatchable power – Hydrogen can be used to generate electricity, providing a low-carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
Conclusion
The IEA is clear that governments must take bold action to stimulate low-emissions hydrogen demand if the world is to meet its climate change goals. With the right policies and incentives in place, the potential of hydrogen to play a key role in the global energy transition can be unlocked. As the world continues to transition to a low-carbon economy, hydrogen is likely to play an increasingly important role in reducing emissions and mitigating climate change.
FAQs
- Q: How much would it cost to produce low-emissions hydrogen?
A: The cost of producing low-emissions hydrogen varies depending on the method of production. However, estimates suggest that the cost could be as low as $2-3 per kilogram.
Q: What is the current status of hydrogen infrastructure?
A: While some hydrogen infrastructure exists, it is still in its infancy. Significant investment is needed to build out the necessary production, storage, and distribution infrastructure.
Q: How would you use low-emissions hydrogen?
A: Low-emissions hydrogen can be used in transportation, industrial processes, and power generation, providing a low-carbon alternative to traditional fuels.
