EU Commission Defends Hydrogen Goals
The European Commission remains committed to its ambitious target of significantly increasing ‘green’ hydrogen production by 2030, despite the European Court of Auditors (ECA) expressing doubts about the feasibility of these goals. The ECA report, released on July 17, suggests that these targets are more aspirational than realistic.
Auditors Call for a Reality Check
Lead author Stefan Blok emphasized that the EU is unlikely to meet its 2030 hydrogen targets, calling for a “reality check” four years after the Hydrogen Strategy’s publication. The REPowerEU plan, developed in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, includes a significant boost in hydrogen production and imports, which the ECA believes lacks a robust analysis.
Commission Stands Firm
Despite the auditors’ skepticism, the European Commission is standing by its objective to produce and import 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen by 2030. A Commission spokesperson acknowledged the challenges in scaling up the hydrogen value chain but highlighted the ongoing efforts and projects across Europe to stimulate the hydrogen market.
Divergent Views on Hydrogen Demand
Blok argued that the current hydrogen demand would not reach the projected 10 million tonnes by 2030, let alone the 20 million tonnes envisaged by the Commission. However, the EU executive dismissed the ECA’s recommendation to revise the Hydrogen Strategy, citing the numerous projects and funding initiatives already underway to develop the hydrogen sector.
Industry and Policy Reactions
The climate think tank E3G and Hydrogen Europe, a trade association, have echoed the call for a realistic approach and clearer definitions of green and low-carbon hydrogen. While some member states support developing low-carbon hydrogen, the Commission has been criticized for delays in creating a legal framework that would facilitate investments and boost hydrogen use.
As the debate continues, the EU Commission’s unwavering stance on hydrogen targets highlights its commitment to decarbonizing various industries, despite the significant challenges and differing opinions within the sector.
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