Abstract:

Hydrogen is a potentially transformative multi-functional fuel that could help many countries achieve ambitious decarbonisation targets. High concentrations of heavy industries and rising transport emissions make hydrogen’s potential particularly enticing in Asia. However, hydrogen’s widespread deployment requires assessing multiple dimensions of its feasibility. This paper analyses the environmental, economic and geopolitical feasibility of making hydrogen mainstream in Asia. That analysis suggests that relevant policies in Asia need to prioritise green hydrogen over blue and grey hydrogen; create financial incentives that facilitate transitions from grey and blue to green hydrogen; and commit to infrastructure that eases the import and export of fuels, raw materials and related technologies. A regional cooperative framework that is led by Japan and places a mutually beneficial co-innovation process at its core could also help make the hydrogen economy a reality in Asia.