The French energy ministry has allocated €700 million ($737 million) for a support mechanism for hydrogen production in 2024. The funding allocation is part of a €10 billion package for ecological planning announced late Sept. 27, including €1.5 billion for nuclear in 2024.
France is planning a call for 150 MW of electrolysis for hydrogen production in 2024, followed by 250 MW in 2025 and 600 MW in 2026, according to a consultation document published earlier in September.
France is aiming for 6.5 GW of installed electrolyzer capacity by 2030, while the EU is targeting 10 million mt/year of green hydrogen production by that date, requiring over 80 GW of electrolysis.
Hydrogen can be produced through a variety of methods, including fossil fuel-based steam methane reforming, which is the most common method today. However, this method produces significant greenhouse gas emissions.
Green hydrogen is produced using water and renewable energy, such as solar and wind power. This process is called electrolysis. Electrolyzers split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, using electricity as the energy source.
The development of a green hydrogen economy has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Green hydrogen can be used to power a variety of applications, including vehicles, buildings, and industrial processes.
The development of a green hydrogen economy is also expected to create jobs and boost the economy. France is aiming to become a world leader in the green hydrogen sector.