In theory, everyone wants it, whether they work in industry or transportation. The energy transition’s champagne is (still) uncommon, and it isn’t a panacea for all energy problems on its own.
As a result, the following holds true: Those that plan ahead of time are better advised. The Austrian government revealed its hydrogen strategy, led by Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) and Economics Minister Martin Kocher (VP). These are “guidelines for our usage of hydrogen,” according to the Minister of Climate Protection. The policy emphasizes both domestic production and hydrogen imports.
First in the industry
Green hydrogen, as previously said, will not be available in unlimited numbers in the future, thus distribution must be carefully studied. As a result, the distribution’s prioritization is likewise determined in the strategy. “Green hydrogen is a significant and useful source of energy; it assists us in replacing fossil natural gas, particularly in industry,” adds Gewessler, citing one of the energy source’s prioritized applications. The use of green hydrogen in the domain of material utilization (chemical industry) and in the steel industry, for example, is highlighted in the industry sector. Use in maritime and aviation traffic is becoming more essential in the field of mobility. It is not, however, intended for use in automobiles or for room heating.
Austrian hydrogen is still being utilized in the industry today. However, thus far, natural gas has been used exclusively to manufacture this. The yearly usage, according to the Federal Minister, is estimated to be over 150,000 tons. Green hydrogen should be able to replace 80% of this by 2030.
produced in Austria
On the one hand, the focus is on creating local production, which the climate protection minister describes as an “essential building stone for independence.” By 2030, Austria should have a one-gigawatt electrolysis capacity for hydrogen generation. Four terawatt-hours of natural gas should be replaced. This figure was also noted in the end-of-April study on the phase-out of Russian natural gas as a crucial domestic source of green hydrogen. The Renewable Energy Sources Expansion Act (EAG) allocates 40 million euros each year to promote green hydrogen production plants.
It won’t function unless it’s imported
However, Austria will not be able to supply itself with green hydrogen on its own. That’s not going to happen. As a result, relationships are required, both domestically and internationally. This is something that the strategy’s authors are also aware of. These collaborations will be developed at both the state and business levels. Minister Gewessler of the Federal Republic of Germany announced proper platforms for this. Furthermore, from the start, a diverse supply strategy should be pursued. Tunisia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), among others, are already in discussions. “We have to be careful not to fall into the next dependence,” the climate minister added.
In addition, the necessary infrastructure for gas distribution is required. According to the Ministry of Climate Protection, the existing natural gas pipeline network can be utilized in some circumstances.
technology should be promoted
When something is new, though, it has the ability to open doors to new possibilities. When it comes to creating the necessary green hydrogen technologies, Austrian enterprises are no exception. As a result, a study in this field should be encouraged. According to Federal Minister Gewessler, the IPCEI will provide Austria with a total of 125 million euros over the next few years (Important Projects of Common European Interest).
