In the coming weeks, the Global Renewables Congress will be launching a Master Class style series on Green Hydrogen. The energy transformation is comprised of a system of different options – from solar to wind to geothermal to hydro to hydrogen, to name a few – and it is hard to know everything about all of these options.
We have curated a group of experts to share their insights on important questions related to Green Hydrogen – and how it could fit into the just energy transition.
We will be launching this series soon, so stay tuned!
As the world transitions towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, green hydrogen has emerged as a potential solution. Produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy, green hydrogen is being considered as a way to reduce carbon emissions across multiple sectors. However, its development raises various questions related to equity, feasibility and impact, particularly for countries in the Global South. Examining the potential benefits and challenges of green hydrogen can provide a clearer picture of its role in the future energy landscape.
Green Hydrogen´s Role in a Renewable-based Future
Green hydrogen is a potential element in the shift to a renewables-based future. Unlike grey or blue hydrogen, which are derived from fossil fuels, green hydrogen is produced without emitting carbon dioxide. Some proponents argue that it could help decarbonise sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as heavy industry, long-haul transport, and steel production. Others indicate that green hydrogen´s role should be carefully assessed, as direct electrification could be a more efficient solution in some cases.
Furhter, green hydrogen can act as energy storage, with the potential to help balance supply and demand in renewable energy grids potentially reducing fluctuation. By storing surplus energy from wind and solar sources, it could contribute to grid stability. Still, questions remain about its cost-effectiveness and whether improvements in battery storage could serve as a more viable alternative.
Equity and Justice Considerations in Green Hydrogen Development
The expansion of green hydrogen also brings considerations of equity and fairness. Developing economies with abundant renewable energy resources may have the opportunity to become key players in the hydrogen market. However, concerns exist that they could be relegated to resource suppliers to advanced economies rather than becoming beneficiaries of long-term economic development. Additionally, green hydrogen production requires significant amounts of water and energy, which may present challenges for regions already experiencing resource constraints.
Perspectives from the Global South
Countries in the Global South have expressed varying views on the potential role of hydrogen in their economies. While for some, it is seen as a potential opportunity to attract investment, create jobs, and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Others raise concerns about whether the infrastructure investments required would provide sufficient local benefits or primarily serve export markets.
There are also questions about how international hydrogen markets will be structured: If green hydrogen is predominantly exported to wealthier nations, local populations may not see significant improvements in energy access or economic development. A key area of discussion around green hydrogen´s potential revolves around creating inclusive decision-making with all relevant stakeholders in global hydrogen initiatives.
Achieving Net-Zero Goals – Opportunities and Challenges for Green Hydrogen
As discussions continue around achieving net-zero emissions, green hydrogen is considered one of several potential tools. Green hydrogen could complement other renewable energy sources well and will support a quicker pivot away from fossil fuels. At the same time, large-scale deployment will require significant infrastructure investments and advances in efficiency to become competitive with other low-carbon energy options.
Developing a competitive hydrogen industry could bring potential benefits such as job creation, increased energy security, and opportunities for technological innovation. Certainly, these benefits will depend on strong and predictable supportive policies, international collaboration, capacity building, and ensuring that environmental and social concerns are addressed effectively.
