Developing a “green” hydrogen economy, according to one expert, might result in the creation of up to 50,000 new employment provided the government develops an appropriate strategy for the fuel.
Numerous European Union member states have published programs for producing green hydrogen for use in heavy transport, industry, large-scale heating, and energy generation.
Dr James Carton, associate professor of sustainable energy at Dublin City University, cautioned over the weekend that the Republic risks missing an opportunity if the Government does not soon disclose its policy.
He observed that a green hydrogen sector could employ five times as many people as the wind energy industry. Wind energy, according to industry estimates, has the potential to create 10,000 jobs.
The Government is expected to release its strategy later this year.
Hydrogen is created by electrically charging water and separating hydrogen from oxygen. To be considered “green,” electricity must be generated from renewable sources.
Because hydrogen is recombined with oxygen to form water vapour, it creates little or no greenhouse gas when burned.
The EU has pledged €150 billion over the next decade to support the development of the fuel, which is even being considered as a possible replacement for kerosene in aviation.
Dr Carton highlighted that wind farms that are not connected to the national grid or whose energy is not required could be used to generate hydrogen.
He stated that one organization, Mercury Renewables, is already moving through with plans to develop a wind-powered green hydrogen factory in Firlough, County Mayo.
Mercury estimates that the project will require a €200 million investment and will produce 20 full-time employment when completed in early 2025.
Dr Carton contended that this demonstrated the possibility for additional comparable investments throughout Ireland.
He stated that Ireland’s wind resources might be used to generate enough hydrogen to export and help offset over €5 billion in fuel imports.
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