Germany's Ambitious Green Hydrogen Import Plans by 2035
Key Ideas
- Germany aims to cover a significant portion of its energy needs with imported green hydrogen by 2035, boosting its energy transition.
- The study highlights the importance of green hydrogen for industrial sectors like steel and chemicals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- To achieve its goals, Germany needs to secure cost-effective renewable hydrogen through pipeline imports and quick agreements with involved countries.
- The study envisions potential hydrogen corridors from various European countries, emphasizing the importance of political support and production potential.
A recent study by Berlin-based Agora Energiewende and Agora Industry think tanks revealed Germany's potential to import up to 100 terawatt-hours (TWh) of green hydrogen annually via pipelines by 2035. This import could cover a significant share of its energy demand, especially for industries like steel and chemicals that are challenging to electrify.
Green hydrogen, produced from solar and wind power, is crucial for Germany's energy transition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The study projects that by 2035, hydrogen could account for 11.2% of the country's total energy demand. However, due to limited renewable resources, Germany will need to import 50% to 70% of its hydrogen.
By 2030, Germany aims to produce 11 TWh of hydrogen domestically and import additional 17 TWh of green hydrogen and 15 TWh of blue hydrogen via pipelines. To achieve this, leveraging existing natural gas infrastructure in Europe will be essential.
Simon Mueller from Agora Energiewende emphasized the importance of securing a cost-effective supply of renewable hydrogen for climate neutrality. He highlighted the need for a financing model and quick agreements with involved countries to meet the hydrogen import potential. The study identified potential pipeline corridors from countries like Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Tunisia, and others.
In conclusion, Germany's ambitious plans for green hydrogen imports signal a positive step towards decarbonizing its industries and transitioning to a more sustainable energy future.
Topics
Europe
Energy Transition
Pipeline Infrastructure
Renewable Resources
Climate Neutrality
Industrial Decarbonization
European Cooperation
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