Global Opportunities and Challenges in Hydrogen Trade Certifications
Key Ideas
  • Hydrogen trade presents an emerging energy transition priority and economic opportunity worldwide.
  • Certification schemes are crucial to ensure international hydrogen trade meets sustainability expectations and de-risks markets.
  • Derivative commodities like low emission ammonia and methanol are expected to drive global trade flows in the hydrogen sector.
  • Regulatory frameworks may evolve to set emission intensity standards for green hydrogen derivatives.
The global interest in hydrogen trade is currently on the rise as countries seek to transition towards cleaner energy sources. Competitive advantages in renewable resources are driving the emergence of global markets for hydrogen, especially in regions with abundant land and water resources that enable cost-effective green hydrogen production. Certification schemes are seen as essential to provide confidence to consumers and regulators regarding the sustainability of internationally traded hydrogen. Additionally, the focus is shifting towards derivative commodities like low emission ammonia and methanol, which are anticipated to become key players in global hydrogen trade. These derivatives are considered easier to transport over long distances compared to gaseous hydrogen due to the latter's low energy density. As a result, regulatory frameworks are expected to evolve to include standards for greenhouse gas emission intensity associated with the production of these derivatives. This report by IRENA aims to analyze the global certification and regulation landscape related to hydrogen trade and its derivatives, highlighting the importance of aligning schemes and frameworks to ensure the sustainable growth of the hydrogen economy.
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