Germany is stepping up its efforts to decarbonize its economy with a new hydrogen import strategy aimed at securing a sustainable and diversified supply of hydrogen and its derivatives. Here’s a quick rundown:

Key Elements of the Strategy

Germany anticipates a hydrogen demand of 95-130 TWh by 2030, with expectations for this demand to increase significantly by 2045. To meet these needs, 50-70% of the hydrogen will need to be imported. The strategy plans for a "core network" by 2032, connecting production, consumption, storage, and import points. Infrastructure expansion includes import ships, pipelines, and H2-ready LNG terminals. Both green hydrogen (renewable) and blue hydrogen (fossil with carbon capture) will be used, targeting sectors like steel, basic materials, petrochemicals, mobility, logistics, and power plants.

Industry Response

The VDI (Association of German Engineers) emphasized the need for a quick and flexible start and a standardized certification system. The BDEW (Energy Industry Association) supported the strategy but called for clear prioritization and secure demand. Zukunft Gas (Lobby Group) criticized the lack of demand growth indicators and called for a global certification system.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental Action Germany (DUH) criticized the inclusion of blue hydrogen, advocating for a focus on green hydrogen only. Greenpeace opposed the use of fossil-based hydrogen, stressing the need for imports from surplus renewable energy only.