@ green | March-April . 2024

Hydrogen-based economy bolsters energy security by lessening reliance on foreign energy sources

BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO

As the world gravitates towards cleaner energy alternatives , Malaysia stands at the forefront of this transition , strategically positioning itself to harness the potential of hydrogen for a brighter , greener future .

For Malaysia , the shift towards a hydrogen economy heralds many benefits , both in economic terms and environmental sustainability . Hydrogen ’ s versatility allows it to be utilised across various sectors , from transportation to power generation and heating , reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions .

Additionally , a hydrogen-based economy bolsters energy security by lessening reliance on foreign energy sources , ensuring stability amidst global uncertainties .

“ Take Sarawak as an example . They began using hydroenergy at an early stage . Now , Peninsular Malaysia aims to expand , solar-wise ,” said Science , Technology and Innovation ( MOSTI ) Minister Chang Lih Kang .

“ The benefit is that there is also a significant demand for our green hydrogen from other countries such as Japan , Korea , Australia and even Singapore .

“ They have allowed us to position ourselves as exporters of green hydrogen to these nations - resulting in a monetary gain .”

ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS

According to the Hydrogen Economy & Technology Roadmap ( HETR ), Malaysia ’ s gross domestic product ( GDP ) can exceed RM12 billion by 2030 .

This growth is due to various economic advantages , such as enhanced energy security , revenue productivity , job creation , and reduced greenhouse gas emissions . Malaysia , which is geographically central to the Asia-Pacific region and is near countries such as Korea , Japan , and Singapore , has a high demand for this commodity in those nations .

Furthermore , MOSTI , in collaboration with affiliated organisations such as NanoMalaysia , will actively participate in cooperative endeavours with diverse stakeholders to expedite the progress and acceptance of the hydrogen economy .

Stakeholders include domestic and foreign entities , including SEDC Energy , Gentari , H2X Global , and Hydrexia .

Malaysia also has several prominent oil and gas companies , including Petronas and Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad . MOSTI believes that utilising natural gas pyrolysis for hydrogen production will facilitate the transfer of these companies into the hydrogen economy .

REVENUE GENERATION AND EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES

The Hydrogen Economy & Technology Roadmap ( HETR ) charts a visionary course for Malaysia ’ s hydrogen sector , forecasting substantial economic gains by 2030 .

Chang mentioned : “ As society moves towards cleaner energy sources , it is crucial to anticipate this shift and develop a new energy strategy . This is where the HETR comes into play . It aligns with the current global trend , I would say .”

Some of the ways it is being achieved are :

• Climate change mitigation - Hydrogen technologies are being developed and integrated by Malaysia ’ s HETR to minimise carbon emissions in transportation , industry , and power generation , supporting climate change efforts .

• International collaborations - Malaysia ’ s HETR hopes to accelerate its hydrogen economy transition by partnering with global governments , industry , and research institutes .

• Investment and funding - Global investment in hydrogen research , development , and infrastructure is increasing through platforms like the UK ’ s ISPF and Luxemborg ’ s EIB Green Hydrogen Trust Fund . Malaysia ’ s HETR acknowledges this need for significant investments and plans financial incentives and support programs to attract investment and spur growth in the hydrogen sector .

• Policy support - Countries like China , the USA , and the UK have pro-hydrogen policies . Malaysia ’ s HETR highlights the need for similar policies to support the hydrogen economy transition .

• Technological innovation - The hydrogen sector is constantly innovating globally . Malaysia ’ s HETR values innovation and research to improve hydrogen technology and reduce costs .

• Energy security - Hydrogen is a strategic energy carrier that may diversify sources and reduce fossil fuel imports . Malaysia ’ s HETR promotes domestic hydrogen production by utilising compressed gas , ammonia , and solid-state technologies to boost energy security .

• Market expansion - Clean energy demand is driving the worldwide hydrogen market . Malaysia ’ s HETR hopes to expand the industry domestically and worldwide by leveraging rising hydrogen demand in Japan , China , and South Korea .

Chang Lih Kang

PILOT PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES

Chang revealed that MOSTI had been working with partners from the private sector to develop a hydrogen refuelling station .

“ We are looking at launching it by the end of this year . It will be the first hydrogen refuelling station in Peninsular Malaysia ,” he said .

On the other hand , NanoMalaysia has developed innovative hydrogen technology solutions and ecosystem building through its venture builder ( VB ) model , engaging with industries , universities , ministries , and international government agencies .

Their pilot project , “ Hydrogen EcoNanoMY ”, aims to advance Malaysia ’ s hydrogen technology .

The programme ’ s key areas of focus include :

• Anion Exchange Membrane ( AEM ) - Development Hydrogen EcoNanoMY concentrates on enhancing the efficiency and affordability of electrolysers by developing anion exchange membranes .

• Direct Photochemical - A new 3D-printed nano-catalyst allows sunlight to be used directly to make hydrogen without the need for solar cells , using very little energy .

• Pyrolysis - Plasma breaks methane up to make “ green graphene ” and hydrogen .

• H2SS and Solid-State - H2SS uses lithium-ion batteries , ultracapacitors , and a proprietary solid-state hydrogen technology ( based on sodium borohydride ) to manufacture hydrogen on-site and on-demand . Motorcycles and autos use H2SS , a zero-emission range extender .

POSITIONING MALAYSIA AS A LEADER

Looking forward , Malaysia aspires to lead the international hydrogen market , leveraging its technological prowess , infrastructure , and strategic partnerships- positioning Malaysia as a frontrunner in the hydrogen economy by 2050 .

Chang assured : “ MOSTI is focused on building a comprehensive ecosystem beyond production and export . We aim to ensure that our own country also benefits from having users . We seamlessly execute the roadmap , ensuring a harmonious balance between production and demand .”

ASEAN GREEN HYDROGEN CONFERENCE 2024

The ASEAN Green Hydrogen Conference 2024 , on May 13-14 this year , presents a pivotal platform for Malaysia and Southeast Asian nations to accelerate their hydrogen agendas .

As one of the speakers for the event , Chang believed it will be an excellent platform , especially for Malaysians .

“ Malaysians are unfortunately still not exposed . Fortunately , this event aims to raise awareness about green hydrogen and highlight its potential as the future of our industry . It will provide valuable exposure for our people and help them understand the importance of green hydrogen in building a sustainable economy .

“ Additionally , it serves as a platform for fostering collaboration between agencies like NanoMalaysia and various private sector partners . So as a future goal , we aspire to bring together players from various sectors - private , government , and academia - to build a more complete ecosystem collaboratively ,” Chang concluded .

With a focus on reducing carbon emissions , enhancing energy security , and seizing export opportunities , MOSTI is poised to lead Malaysia in the global hydrogen market- contributing significantly to a cleaner and more resilient future . – @ green