Hydrogen sector holds huge potential for Hamburg, EEHH survey finds

"As a port and centre of industry and innovation, the Hamburg Metropolitan Region has a unique opportunity to establish new structures and to network even more closely with regional and international partners," said Jan Rispens, Managing Director of EEHH. Developing a cross-sector hydrogen branch is a joint task. Everyone involved can benefit from those synergies. However, policymakers must provide clear framework conditions and intelligent incentives, Rispens added. 

The companies surveyed had identified a concrete need for action, especially in completing the value chain in Hamburg, answering questions about distribution networks and building permits. Improved regulation and the ability to plan as well as a stable customer structure are particularly important for the ramp-up phase of a hydrogen sector. More than 80 per cent of respondents said north German collaboration on hydrogen is "important" or "essential".

Respondents came out in favour of environment-friendly hydrogen produced from renewable energy, according to EEHH. However, many companies still consider a juxtaposition of green and blue hydrogen, i.e. hydrogen produced from natural gas, legitimate until the demand for green hydrogen can be met. In reference to importing hydrogen, most respondents came out in favour of importing green hydrogen preferably from EU countries and Norway and Britain as well. Hydrogen imports by ship are likely to play a key role in future. If most of companies surveyed had their way, Hamburg would prepare to ship imported hydrogen by 2025. However, an alternative could lie in raising Germany's own hydrogen production or importing by pipeline instead of ship.
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