Comment by Daniela Montaño, Incubation Manager at Energy Systems Catapult

As the world increasingly turns its focus towards renewable energy, hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution to our growing commercial and industrial energy needs. Being the most abundant element in the universe, hydrogen has the potential to transform how we produce and use electricity. Recognising this potential, the UK government has identified hydrogen as a key industrial component in achieving its Net Zero targets by 2050.

But what makes hydrogen such a game-changer, and why is it attracting so much attention?

The star of the show: hydrogen

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), achieving Net Zero will require a combination of energy efficiency, electrification, and renewable energy. ‘While these can achieve 70% of the necessary emissions reductions, hydrogen is crucial for decarbonising sectors where other options are limited, such as heavy industry, long-haul transport, and seasonal energy storage. In these areas, hydrogen could contribute up to 10% of the required emissions reductions and 12% of final energy demand.’

It’s important to note that hydrogen is not an energy source but a versatile energy carrier. It can be produced from multiple feedstocks and can be used across multiple applications including industrial processes as a rocket fuel and in fuel cells for electricity generation and powering vehicles.

The challenge

Despite its promising potential, hydrogen faces several barriers that prevent it from being fully realised. To gain a deeper understanding of these obstacles, the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative (HII) utilised Energy Systems Catapult to conduct an in-depth investigation. This involved interviewing 18 hydrogen-focused small to medium sized companies and hosting a collaborative session where participants shared insights and discussed the challenges they face.

Key challenges identified include:

• Bridging the hydrogen knowledge gap: There is a widespread lack of understanding and expertise in hydrogen technologies. Addressing this gap requires coordinated efforts, such as education and training programmes, centralised platforms for regulatory information, and public awareness campaigns to increase the understanding and adoption of hydrogen technologies.
• Enhancing testing facilities: A significant barrier to commercialising hydrogen innovations is the lack of large-scale testing facilities. More collaboration is needed to establish a centralised database that helps companies find the right testing and piloting facilities for their technology, product, or service.
• Hydrogen mapping: The complexity of hydrogen manufacturing, infrastructure, and applications can be overwhelming. A detailed hydrogen infrastructure map would simplify strategic planning and attract investment. Further collaboration is needed to comprehensively map the sector, its stakeholders, and their roles.

The opportunity

Energy Systems Catapult, together with the Catapults and partners in HII, is uniquely positioned to bridge the gaps between public organisations and the private sector. By facilitating connections, providing crucial data, and opening up market opportunities, we are committed to supporting hydrogen innovators. We are actively exploring various ways to advance the hydrogen sector, strengthen the innovation ecosystem, and ensure the UK meets its decarbonisation targets, paving the way for a robust hydrogen economy.

All stakeholders in the hydrogen sector are encouraged to collaborate and engage with us to support the recommended initiatives. Together, we can drive the commercialisation of hydrogen technologies and create a sustainable, resilient energy future.

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