Clean Hydrogen for Decarbonisation: Beyond the ‘Next Oil’ Narrative

Aliaksei Patonia, MSc in Sustainable Development (2017)

Clean hydrogen is often presented as the “next oil” and a cornerstone of the global energy transition. But how realistic are these expectations?

This book provides an evidence-based assessment of hydrogen’s potential contribution to decarbonisation. It examines the key technologies and costs of hydrogen production, policy support mechanisms, transportation and storage infrastructure, and the challenges associated with scaling hydrogen deployment.

The book also explores hydrogen’s role across a range of sectors, including power generation, road and rail transport, maritime shipping, aviation, steel, cement, chemicals, and other hard-to-abate industrial processes.

Drawing on the latest research and industry developments, the book offers a balanced perspective on both the opportunities and limitations of hydrogen. It argues that while clean hydrogen is unlikely to become the “next oil”, it can play an important role in achieving a credible, cost-effective, and sustainable pathway to net-zero emissions.

Written for policymakers, industry practitioners, investors, researchers, and students, the book aims to separate realistic opportunities from overly optimistic expectations and contribute to a more informed discussion about hydrogen’s role in the global energy transition.

ISBN: 978-3-032-19441-1