A net-zero world would require 306 million tonnes of green hydrogen to be produced annually by 2050, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). That would require something in the region of 3,000GW of electrolysers and 6,000GW of renewable energy, based on current technology.

Considering the world had only installed 3,371GW of renewables by the end of last year (according to the International Renewable Energy Agency [Irena]) — and that the planet will need about 30,000GW of renewable energy to decarbonise the global electricity supply, that’s a fairly tall order.

Based on the notion that economies of scale would reduce the cost of green hydrogen production, several developers have announced massive and extremely ambitious projects that aim to meet much of the world's future demand for clean H2. But what is the current situation? Is the strong expansion of green hydrogen projects succeeding worldwide? Do we even need them for a sustainable, future-proof energy industry? We talk about this with Dr. Thomas Hillig, Founder of THEnergy.

Timeline:

• 02:13 Hydrogen seems to be all about Gigawatt projects – if we read the latest news. Is this true or fiction
• 04:00 Less than one percent of the hydrogen produced worldwide still comes from renewable sources and can therefore claim to be "green". Can green hydrogen even be economically viable in the long term?
• 06:09 Why are so few projects being realized? A few years ago, we read in the media about numerous major projects in the hydrogen sector; it seemed to be the next big thing?
• 10:13 Is hydrogen comparable to solar 15 years ago (when it was still more of a niche product)?
• 15:18 Which are the most promising applications for green hydrogen?
• 19:13 Where will green hydrogen be produced? And what about electrolyzers?

About The smarter E Podcast

The smarter E podcast is all about the current trends and developments in a renewable, decentralized and digital energy industry. Our moderators Tobias Bücklein and Zackes Brustik welcome and interview personalities who shape our industry and drive developments forward. A new episode is published every Thursday.

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About Thomas Hillig and THEnergy

THEnergy, led by Dr. Thomas Hillig, is a premier boutique consultancy specializing in innovative renewable energy solutions for off-grid and remote areas. The focus is on sectors such as solar-diesel and wind-diesel hybrid systems, microgrids, and renewable energy applications for industries including mining, hospitality, telecommunications, and agriculture. Expertise extends to rural electrification and enhancing energy access in underserved regions.

The consultancy provides strategic support in market entry, due diligence, and identification of M&A opportunities. Services include market intelligence, financing solutions, and marketing strategies tailored to renewable energy projects. Additionally, THEnergy facilitates partnerships and effective communication in off-grid markets, ensuring successful project implementation and sustainable energy solutions.

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