As the European Union (EU) strives to meet its ambitious climate goals, green hydrogen emerges as a critical component of its renewable energy strategy.
A new paper “How Can Green Hydrogen from North Africa Support EU Decarbonisation?” explores the potential of importing green hydrogen from North Africa to support the EU’s energy transition.
The huge potential for Green Hydrogen as a Solution to our Energy Needs
North Africa, with its abundant solar and wind resources, is ideally positioned to become a major producer of green hydrogen. This research from Italy and Portugal examines its potential contribution to the EU’s decarbonisation efforts by supplying green hydrogen.
Key insights
Renewable Energy Potential:
- North Africa’s vast deserts and coastal regions provide optimal conditions for solar and wind power generation. By harnessing these resources, North Africa can produce green hydrogen at a competitive cost, leveraging economies of scale and technological advancements.
Infrastructure and Logistics:
- Establishing a robust infrastructure for green hydrogen production and transport is crucial. The study outlines potential logistical solutions, including pipelines and shipping routes, to efficiently deliver green hydrogen to Europe. It also discusses the need for international cooperation and investment to develop this infrastructure.
Economic and Environmental Benefits:
- Importing green hydrogen from North Africa could significantly reduce the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions. The paper highlights the economic benefits for both regions, including job creation in North Africa and energy security for the EU. Additionally, the environmental benefits of reduced emissions align with the EU’s climate targets.
Intercontinental Partnerships
The successful implementation of this strategy requires strong partnerships between the EU and North African countries. Collaborative efforts in technology transfer, investment, and policy development are essential to overcome challenges and realise the full potential of green hydrogen. This could profoundly accelerate the transition to cleaner energy systems and achieving ambitious climate goals.
Source
How can green hydrogen from North Africa support EU decarbonization? Scenario analyses on competitive pathways for trade, International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2024-08-19
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