Europe must move faster to enable its major industries to adopt large-scale green hydrogen at an affordable cost according to new analysis from the Transhyde alliance, a coalition that includes Fraunhofer institutes universities and energy research organisations. The alliance said, Europe can still build a reliable and cost-effective hydrogen supply system if governments make clear decisions without delay. Mario Ragwitz head of the Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geotechnologies and a lead author of the report emphasised that Europe’s hydrogen outlook depends heavily on actions taken before the decade ends.

Green hydrogen produced using renewable electricity is viewed as essential for decarbonising heavy industry. However, Germany’s progress has lagged expectations. Despite sizeable public funding, both supply and demand remain far below planned levels. The report notes that the steel and chemical industries will account for most future hydrogen consumption although long-term demand will depend on global competitiveness CO₂ prices and green hydrogen production costs. Researchers estimate that industrial demand could reach 779 terawatt hours across the EU, Great Britain, Norway and Switzerland.

Renewable expansion and policy clarity are critical

The analysis stresses that rapid expansion of renewable-energy capacity is vital to secure sufficient green hydrogen supplies. Failing to meet renewable targets would increase hydrogen prices and force Europe to rely more heavily on imports. The alliance argues that stronger policy mechanisms are needed to accelerate industrial adoption. 

Researchers also highlight the importance of planning for hydrogen imports delivered through repurposed natural gas pipelines. Pipeline infrastructure linking Europe with regions such as North Africa and South-Eastern Europe could provide the most cost-effective long-term supply option. Converting existing networks would significantly lower transport costs and reduce the need for extensive new infrastructure but the report stresses that early coordination will be essential.

The findings underscore Europe’s narrowing window to secure an affordable and resilient hydrogen future. Without decisive action the continent risks missing its industrial decarbonisation goals and losing competitiveness in global hydrogen markets.

Source:
https://bioenergytimes.com/europe-must-speed-up-shift-to-large-scale-green-hydrogen-use-report/