May-June . 2024 | @ green Event • 15
May-June . 2024 | @ green Event • 15
Opportunities in the hydrogen energy sector
Increased interaction among industry players , policymakers , and research and development professionals displayed a positive outlook
BY ZAFIRAH ZAFRUDDIN
MALAYSIA ’ S dynamic involvement in the hydrogen energy sector not only positions the nation as a potential leader but also underscores its significant role in the global hydrogen energy market .
By 2050 , global expenditure on hydrogen energy will reach US $ 2.5 trillion .
“ There will be a large increase in hydrogen demand worldwide , going up to nearly 600 million tonnes per annum of hydrogen ,” said Malaysian Association of Hydrogen Energy ( MAHE ) President Prof Dato Dr Wan Ramli Wan Daud .
Wan Ramli underlines the pivotal role of hydrogen in achieving Net Zero 2050 objectives , stressing that it is not just a factor but the determining element for this crucial milestone .
The ASEAN Green Hydrogen Conference , a pivotal event in the hydrogen energy sector , returned for its second year after a successful debut .
The conference , held on May 13-14 in Kuala Lumpur , served as a platform for industry players , policymakers , and research and development professionals to share insights and foster collaboration .
Wan Ramli , who spoke at the conference , observed the increased
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participation from various local and international industries . The increased interaction among industry players , policymakers , and research and development professionals displayed a positive outlook .
MARKET TRENDS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Wan Ramli emphasised Malaysia ’ s potential in the global energy market and production and export potential . As part of the Southeast Asia region , Malaysia has abundant renewable energy resources to draw upon .
“ There is great potential for the production
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of green hydrogen from renewable energy like hydro , solar , wind energy , as well as geothermal and ocean thermal ,” he said .
The green hydrogen produced can be exported to East Asia , the United States , and Canada .
Hydrogen also holds great potential for low-carbon mobility solutions within Malaysia . This could reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help sustain domestic energy needs .
While the hydrogen-specific power technology is still developing , Malaysia ’ s power industry can start by co-firing
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Wan Ramli Wan Daud
hydrogen with existing fossil fuels . This transitional approach allows for the gradual integration of hydrogen until the technology becomes fully viable in five to ten years .
Wan Ramli also mentioned ammonia co-firing . Coal thermal power plants can employ ammonia , which makes it easier to manage than hydrogen . This method is still being tested and requires further support .
MAHE ’ S CURRENT ENDEAVOURS
In the meantime , MAHE is actively involved in various initiatives to support and develop the hydrogen energy sector in Malaysia . MAHE is currently prioritising the drafting of technical codes before developing a Malaysian standard . Other initiatives include :
• Promoting research and development collaborations .
• Drafting a hydrogen economy roadmap .
• Engaging with industry stakeholders .
• Supporting government initiatives to ensure the sector ’ s growth and sustainability .
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Decarbonising end-industries
HYDROGEN Yuma Ito , a renowned expert from Arthur D . Little ( ADL ), delivered a comprehensive perspective in his presentation titled , ‘ Hydrogen and Derivates for End-industries : Navigating the Challenges of End-industries Decarbonisation .’
Established in 1886 , ADL is a distinguished management consulting firm known for its global reach in major economic hubs . Notably , the firm has completed several strategic hydrogen and related projects worldwide .
THE HYDROGEN MARKET
Ito discussed the significant shift that is set to occur in the hydrogen market . Present trends , encapsulated in the term ‘ 3D + 1C ’ ( decarbonisation , decentralisation , digitalisation , and convergence ), indicate that hydrogen and clean ammonia are critical in the energy industry ’ s transition .
Ito ’ s presentation underscored the transformative potential of green hydrogen in various industries . For instance , the steel industry could see a significant carbon dioxide abatement effect , with 27.8 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent .
Similarly , carbon dioxide emissions from ammonia production are projected to decrease by 15.2 tonnes .
Ito also mentioned that converting to renewable hydrogen feedstocks can save 12.0 tonnes . Truck fuel derived from renewable hydrogen lowers emissions by 10.1 tonnes .
Another innovative application is power-to-liquid sustainable aviation fuel ( PtL SAF ), a process that converts renewable electricity into a liquid fuel suitable for aviation .
This can reduce emissions by 6.2 tonnes . Power generation can also reduce emissions by 6.5 tonnes .
CHALLENGES IN THE HYDROGEN ECONOMY
The demand for hydrogen currently needs to be increased to warrant significant investments .
This is a complex task due to several factors , including the need for economies of scale , insufficient funding , and inadequate infrastructure , all of which contribute to the current low demand .
Developing a solid hydrogen economy requires comprehensive infrastructure , which involves significant expenditures in addition to addressing a funding gap . Not to mention , the absence of clear regulations and standards diminishes its appeal to investors .
Ito ’ s insights highlighted the urgent need to address the interrelated challenges in the hydrogen economy . These issues , if left unattended , could hinder the progress of the hydrogen economy , underscoring the importance of immediate action .
MOVING FORWARD
Using the maritime industry as a case study , Ito examined possible approaches to foster the hydrogen ecosystem .
This industry is concerned with environmental issues such as shipping decarbonisation , compliance with new environmental regulations , and meeting societal sustainability demands for sustainability .
Maritime activities account for three per cent of total greenhouse gas ( GHG ) emissions . This percentage will increase unless appropriate measures are taken as global demands grow .
Yuma Ito
According to Ito , efficient decarbonisation necessitates implementing regulations , establishing supply chains , and using digital technology .
This can be accomplished by implementing a holistic approach that emphasises consistent coordination and cooperation among all stakeholders involved in the production process . – @ green