In the race to decarbonize our global energy landscape, clean hydrogen has emerged as a vital contender. To discuss its role in meeting climate goals and rapidly scaling up to meet surging demand, World Hydrogen Leaders are set to convene for an extended and enhanced World Hydrogen Week, scheduled from October 9th to 13th, 2023, in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
World Hydrogen Week is renowned as one of the most significant gatherings in the industry. This five-day extravaganza will welcome over 3,000 attendees representing 800 organizations hailing from 50 countries. It’s more than just a conference; it’s a global convergence of minds and actions. This year’s event comprises four major components: the prestigious World Hydrogen Congress, the enlightening World Hydrogen Intelligence Day, the pivotal Global Hydrogen Projects Summit, and an exciting new addition – the “World Hydrogen Derivatives.”
The “World Hydrogen Derivatives” program breaks new ground by exploring the diverse roles hydrogen can play beyond its traditional applications. It delves into hydrogen’s potential as an energy carrier, a direct fuel for mobility applications, and a source for clean supply chains in the fertilizer and chemical sectors. This inaugural event is a testament to the evolving landscape of hydrogen innovation.
Nadim Chaudhry, Chief Executive Officer of World Hydrogen Leaders, emphasizes the urgency of the moment. He states, “It is vital that the industry comes together to address the critical issues remaining around clean hydrogen in what is an increasingly narrow window to transition to a decarbonized energy system.” Clean hydrogen, including its derivative molecules, is emerging as a viable solution for hard-to-abate sectors. However, several challenges must be surmounted for full commercialization and widespread integration.
World Hydrogen Week is not just a gathering of experts; it’s a congregation of decision-makers. A striking 70 percent of speakers and attendees hold key roles at the vice-president, director, or C-level within their organizations. This mix of expertise and executive authority ensures that discussions lead to actionable outcomes. Notable participants this year include industry giants like Airbus, bp, ExxonMobil, Engie, and TotalEnergies, to name a few.
The event’s keynote speakers are luminaries in the hydrogen arena. Nicola de Blasio, Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center Harvard Kennedy School; Michael Liebreich, CEO & Chairman of Liebreich Associates; Valerie Ruiz, Group Hydrogen Vice President at Engie; Henrik Solgaard Andersen, Vice President Global Hydrogen at Equinor; and Dominika Ermitsch, Director Valuation, Modelling & Economics at EY, are among the notable figures set to enlighten the audience.
As the world confronts the challenges of climate change and the imperative to transition to cleaner energy sources, World Hydrogen Week 2023 in Rotterdam emerges as a beacon of hope. It’s a platform where visionaries, innovators, and decision-makers unite to shape the future of clean hydrogen and steer humanity toward a sustainable and decarbonized energy system. The conversations and collaborations that unfold during these five days have the potential to impact the course of history. Stay tuned for the revelations and solutions that may well define our clean energy future.
