UK joins the global Hydrogen race

The world is in a state of transformation, accelerating its transition towards a low-carbon future. In this journey, hydrogen is emerging as a game-changer, offering the potential to decarbonise industries and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Recognising this, nations across the globe are implementing ambitious strategies to establish hydrogen economies writes John Ridgeway.

The recent news that Costain was awarded a multi-million-pound contract by BP to design a new hydrogen pipeline network in the Teesside area signifies the UK's commitment to joining the global hydrogen race, but it still has a long way to go to catch up with other nations. However, this project aligns perfectly with the UK government's plan to be a world-leading hydrogen economy, initially announced in 2021.

The UK, like other nations, recognises the importance of infrastructure development in establishing a strong hydrogen economy. Costain's project to design a 31km onshore pipeline network for transporting purified hydrogen from BP's new production facility to industrial end-users in the Teesside area is a crucial first step. This dedicated pipeline infrastructure will be vital for efficiently delivering hydrogen and enabling its utilisation across various sectors.

The Teesside project, alongside the UK's broader hydrogen strategy, holds immense potential for decarbonisation efforts. By displacing natural gas consumption for industrial end users, the blue hydrogen produced by H2Teesside (part of the East Coast Cluster) will contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the region. This project and others like it, can pave the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future for the UK.

Learning from global leaders

While the UK's commitment to a hydrogen economy is commendable, there's much to be learned from the leading players in the global race. Germany has established itself as a frontrunner in the hydrogen race. Their ambitious national hydrogen strategy, unveiled in 2020, aims to solidify their position as a global leader in hydrogen production, infrastructure development and research.

From heavily investing in electrolysers for clean hydrogen production using renewable electricity - to funding the development of a nationwide hydrogen pipeline network - Germany is taking a multifaceted approach. They are actively researching cost-effective hydrogen storage solutions and supporting the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles through subsidies and infrastructure development. This comprehensive approach positions Germany to become a major exporter of hydrogen technology and expertise in the years to come.

While not a significant producer, Japan is a leading advocate for hydrogen use. Their national strategy sets ambitious targets for hydrogen adoption across various sectors like transportation, power generation and industrial decarbonisation. They envision replacing petrol and diesel vehicles with hydrogen fuel cells, utilising the gas as a clean and flexible source of energy, particularly for peak demand periods and are targeting it it to decarbonise sectors like steel production and chemical manufacturing.

By actively promoting hydrogen-based technologies, Japan aims to create a vibrant domestic hydrogen economy while simultaneously pushing for international collaboration to ensure a global market for clean hydrogen.

South Korea is also making significant strides in developing a hydrogen economy, with a particular focus on hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). The country boasts a rapidly growing network of hydrogen refuelling stations, strong government support for FCV manufacturers like Hyundai, and ambitious targets for FCV adoption in the coming years. This strategic focus on transportation allows South Korea to decarbonise a key sector while establishing itself as a leader in FCV technology.

The Hydrogen production powerhouse

Currently, China reigns supreme as the world's largest hydrogen producer. However, most of this hydrogen is "grey hydrogen" produced from fossil fuels. Nevertheless, China recognises the potential of clean hydrogen and is taking steps to expand its leadership by investing in large-scale green hydrogen production facilities, developing a national hydrogen pipeline network and supporting research and development for advanced hydrogen storage technologies. China aims to become a dominant player in the global hydrogen market, exporting both clean hydrogen and related technologies.

The US is also actively participating in the hydrogen race, investing in research and development to explore cost-effective methods for clean hydrogen production using renewable energy sources. Additionally, they are striving to create innovative hydrogen storage solutions by fostering collaboration through initiatives like the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs programme. This focus on clean hydrogen production and infrastructure development positions the US to be a major player in the future hydrogen economy, with a focus on domestic decarbonisation and potential future exports.

While the potential of the gas as a clean energy carrier is undeniable, the path to a global hydrogen economy is still fraught with challenges. Currently, the production of green hydrogen, particularly through electrolysis, is more expensive than traditional methods. Significant technological advancements and economies of scale are needed to reduce costs to make green hydrogen competitive.

Building a robust hydrogen infrastructure, including production facilities, pipelines and refuelling stations, requires substantial investment and time. Hydrogen is also a highly flammable gas, necessitating rigorous safety standards and regulations for its production, transportation and storage. Furthermore, public perception and acceptance of hydrogen as a safe energy carrier also needs to be addressed.

As green hydrogen production relies heavily on renewable energy sources, the intermittency of these resources poses additional challenges for ensuring a stable hydrogen supply. Storing hydrogen efficiently and cost-effectively is another critical challenge. Developing advanced storage technologies is essential for the widespread adoption of hydrogen.

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of a hydrogen economy are substantial. By decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors, creating new jobs and enhancing energy security, hydrogen can play a vital role in achieving a sustainable future.

To overcome these challenges, international collaboration is essential. Sharing knowledge, technologies and best practices among countries can accelerate the development of the hydrogen economy. Additionally, governments, industry and research institutions need to work together to invest in research and development, infrastructure development and public awareness campaigns.

By addressing these challenges and capitalising on the opportunities, the global hydrogen economy has the potential to become a reality, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable world. – and at last it seems to becoming a reality.