Hydrogen has garnered interest in the decarbonization discussion as the world seeks net zero emissions by 2050. Hydrogen is supported politically and regulatory throughout Europe.
In 2020, the EU launched a hydrogen plan to lead the momentum. Make renewable and low-carbon hydrogen a main energy commodity in Europe. Such steps should boost green hydrogen consumption by mid-2030s.
Two prominent marine economists believe the globe should discuss green hydrogen’s possible effects and opportunities on seaports in light of the fast-growing hydrogen economy.
Professors Theo Notteboom and Hercules Haralambides found that seaports are crucial to the global adoption of green hydrogen and its competitiveness.
Port authorities must prepare for a fossil-fuel downturn, which is challenging. Rotterdam and Houston thrive on big fossil fuel imports and exports.
Green hydrogen will transform ports. This includes cargo volumes and the energy-related industrial ecology that will grow around seaport complexes.
Nottenboom and Haralambides advise ports seeking hub status in the global hydrogen network to connect their commercial and marketing efforts with energy flow adjustments. Thus, ports might work with major commercial enterprises and municipal, regional, and national governments to strengthen ties with hydrogen economy nations. Chile, Morocco, and Namibia, net energy importers, are green hydrogen exporters. Australian, Oman, Saudi, and UAE fossil fuel exporters are also considering green hydrogen to diversify their economies.
Seaports will help green hydrogen compete by lowering production costs. Hydrogen generation costs 70% of renewable electricity. Scalability, which ensures large-scale production, affects green hydrogen cost.
Seaports excel in these two areas. Seaports are connected to offshore wind and have lots of area for hydrogen generation and storage.
Seaports have considerable green hydrogen demand. Large ports have become industrial and logistics hubs. They can generate initial enthusiasm for green hydrogen supply and the desire to absorb it.
