Clean hydrogen pathways : expert projections from Australia and implications for the world

Hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources or with carbon capture and storage is an important pillar for reducing global emissions. Using structured interviews, we collect and analyze expectations of 47 industry, science, and government experts on hydrogen pathways and policy needs in Australia. A detailed picture emerges of expectations for how hydrogen will be produced, traded, or used domestically, including projections of future production cost and quantities. Experts also shared views on key obstacles and factors that could support hydrogen deployment. While a large majority anticipates a transition to renewable hydrogen by 2050, there are some notable divergences in expectations, including among different stakeholder groups and levels of experience. For instance, carbon capture and storage pathways remain contested. While the experts were largely optimistic that technical and environmental barriers could be overcome, the main policy gaps identified relate to regulatory and market uncertainties.