Comparative analysis on the development potential of green hydrogen industry in China, the United States and the European Union

Green hydrogen is an ideal option for decarbonizing energy systems. This article examines the status and policies of the green hydrogen industry in the world's top three energy-consuming economies. An entire industry chain-technology, economy, and roadmap assessment framework has been adopted to make a multi-dimensional discussion. The results show that: (1) China's hydrogen application potential for 2050 is 112 Mt/year (82% of which will be green hydrogen), the United States' is 93 Mt/year (similar to 100% green hydrogen), and the European Union's is 71 Mt/year (similar to 100% green hydrogen). (2) By 2030, green hydrogen is targeted to reach competitive costs in China (US$2.18/kg), the United States (US$1/kg), and the European Union (US$2.16/kg). (3) The most noticeable limitations in China, the U.S., and the EU are pipelines, raw materials for SOEC, and raw materials for PEM, respectively.