Europe's Future Hydrogen Demand and Infrastructure: Insights from Research Results
Key Ideas
  • Europe's hydrogen demand in 2050 is projected to be at least 700 TWh, with steel and chemical industries being the main drivers.
  • The transportation sector, particularly aviation and shipping, is expected to have a substantial demand for green fuels based on hydrogen.
  • The role of electrolysis in sector coupling is crucial for the evolution of the hydrogen market, ensuring a secure supply for industrial use.
  • The establishment of a hydrogen backbone network across Europe is essential to connect production, storage, and consumption centers efficiently.
A recent white paper from the BMBF's hydrogen flagship project TransHyDE System Analysis, coordinated by Fraunhofer IEG and DECHEMA e.V., highlights Europe's future hydrogen demand and infrastructure needs. The research projects a minimum requirement of 700 TWh of hydrogen in 2050, driven primarily by the steel and chemical industries. The transportation sector, especially international aviation and shipping, is also expected to heavily rely on hydrogen-based green fuels. The study emphasizes the importance of aligning hydrogen availability with specific industry needs and the establishment of a pan-European hydrogen backbone network. Electrolysis is identified as a key technology for ensuring a continuous hydrogen supply for industrial processes. The research also underlines the potential role of repurposing natural gas pipelines and the importance of imports, particularly from the MENA region, to meet hydrogen demand. A collaborative effort involving various research institutions and organizations is essential to shape Europe's hydrogen economy and infrastructure for a sustainable energy transition.
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