Unlocking Green Hydrogen Financing: The Role of Banks in Bridging the Investment Gap
Key Ideas
- Green hydrogen market booming with 522 projects, $460 billion funding gap. Private finance crucial for transition.
- SPV and portfolio financing methods utilized. Choice depends on renewable electricity access and cost efficiency.
- Renewable electricity sourcing impacts financing. Additionality concept ensures green hydrogen boosts renewable energy availability.
- Financial covenants critical for green hydrogen projects. Conservative assumptions, higher equity ratio expected compared to traditional renewables.
The global green hydrogen market is experiencing significant growth, with 522 projects lined up until 2030. However, a substantial $460 billion funding gap remains, despite $240 billion being pledged. Private finance is seen as essential in bridging this gap and driving the green hydrogen transition forward. Financing for these projects typically involves special purpose vehicles (SPVs) or portfolio financing, with the choice influenced by factors like renewable electricity access. In countries with developed renewable energy infrastructure, green hydrogen projects can be financed independently, while developing nations may need to integrate renewable energy generation. The sourcing of renewable electricity is crucial, and lenders focus on ensuring sustainability and additionality. Financial covenants for green hydrogen projects are tailored to address unique risks. Lenders are likely to require higher equity ratios and operate based on conservative assumptions due to the newness of the green hydrogen market.