Germany's Future Green Hydrogen Imports: Analyzing Costs, Partnerships, and Sustainability
Key Ideas
  • A consortium in Germany created a global hydrogen potential atlas to analyze sustainable locations for future green hydrogen imports, focusing on partner countries like Brazil, Morocco, Canada, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates.
  • The study evaluates the techno-economic aspects of importing various Power-to-X products by ship, with liquid hydrogen emerging as the most cost-effective long-term option for pure hydrogen imports.
  • Recommendations include promoting ammonia as a short to medium-term product due to its ease and cost-effectiveness, while also accelerating the development of liquid hydrogen technologies for future import efficiency.
  • Water supply sustainability is crucial for hydrogen production, requiring 15 to 20 kilograms of fresh water per kilogram of hydrogen, with the study suggesting varied water management strategies based on regional conditions.
Germany's future green hydrogen needs are likely to be supplemented by imports, necessitating a detailed analysis of costs, partnerships, and sustainability criteria. The HYPAT project, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, has produced a hydrogen potential atlas to identify suitable locations for green hydrogen production and Power-to-X products. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE conducted a comprehensive cost analysis for importing products like liquid hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol from countries such as Brazil, Morocco, Canada, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates. The study emphasizes the importance of considering partner countries' energy needs, climate targets, and sustainability criteria in fostering cooperative development. Import costs for hydrogen products are projected to range from 3.50 to 6.50 euros per kilogram in 2030 and 2 to 4.50 euros per kilogram in 2050. Liquid hydrogen is deemed the most cost-effective option for long-term imports, while ammonia is recommended as a viable short to medium-term product. The study also highlights the significance of sustainable water supply for hydrogen production, suggesting diverse strategies like seawater desalination or pipeline transport. The research stresses the importance of early dialogue with exporting countries to mitigate potential negative impacts on their local energy transitions as export volumes rise. By addressing water supply challenges and promoting efficient import strategies, Germany aims to establish a robust and sustainable green hydrogen economy in collaboration with international partners.
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