The Israeli Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has announced the launch of a comprehensive national plan to incorporate hydrogen into the country’s energy system.
This strategic move aligns with Israel’s goal of transitioning to a low-carbon energy economy by 2050 and recognizes hydrogen as a versatile solution for various sectors, including transportation, industry, electricity, and storage.
The multi-year plan focuses on several key aspects, including research and development (R&D), the establishment of regional hydrogen valleys, flexible regulation to integrate hydrogen into the energy sector, and active participation in the global hydrogen community.
Research and development initiatives and demonstration projects will address critical challenges in the hydrogen field, such as cost reduction, logistical optimization, safety enhancements, and efficiency improvements in the production, storage, and utilization cycle. By investing in R&D, Israel aims to foster innovation and develop sustainable solutions that will accelerate the adoption of hydrogen technologies.
The hydrogen valleys concept aims to create localized hubs that cover the entire hydrogen value chain. This includes the development of efficient production technologies, storage solutions, transportation infrastructure, and the utilization of hydrogen in the industrial, transportation, and energy sectors. The establishment of these hydrogen valleys will serve as testbeds for innovative applications and help drive the scalability and commercial viability of hydrogen technologies.
To support the infrastructure necessary for hydrogen integration, Israel plans to establish dedicated hydrogen fueling stations, encourage regional production of green hydrogen, explore underground hydrogen storage options, and assess the feasibility of utilizing existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport. These infrastructure developments will lay the foundation for a robust hydrogen ecosystem and facilitate the widespread adoption of hydrogen-based solutions across Israel.
International collaborations will play a crucial role in Israel’s hydrogen strategy. By partnering with other countries and organizations, Israel aims to leverage shared knowledge, accelerate technology development, and reduce costs throughout the hydrogen value chain. Additionally, these collaborations will open up new avenues for trade relations and diversify Israel’s energy sources, contributing to energy security and sustainability.
According to the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the projected hydrogen demand in Israel by 2050 could reach up to 5.2 million tonnes, driven by the need for clean electricity, heavy transportation, industry, aviation, and shipping. By proactively embracing hydrogen as an integral part of its energy landscape, Israel positions itself as a leader in sustainable energy solutions and contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
