In the hydrogen battlefield, Europe tries to stay ahead of China

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on POLITICO or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Europe is working to stay ahead of China in the green hydrogen market, fearing Beijing might dominate it as it did with solar energy
• The EU is considering imposing "Made in Europe" requirements and seeks Japan's collaboration to secure the hydrogen supply chain

🔭 The context: Germany initially led solar energy innovation, but China’s economies of scale and subsidies captured the market
• Europe now aims to prevent a similar scenario in the hydrogen sector by partnering with Japan, a tech giant and strategic ally, to develop and standardize hydrogen technology

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Green hydrogen, produced by splitting water molecules without emitting CO2, is seen as a crucial clean energy source for heavy industries
• Ensuring a stable and politically secure hydrogen supply chain is essential for achieving Europe's net-zero emissions goal by 2050

⏭️ What's next: The EU and Japan will collaborate on regulatory standards, technology sharing, and supply chain resilience to mitigate risks of over-reliance on China
• Brussels is also securing hydrogen agreements with other regions, aiming to diversify and stabilize its energy sources

💬 One quote: "We want to cooperate with Japan to develop high-standards regulations and ensure a level playing field," said European Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson

📈 One stat: Nearly 97% of solar panels in the EU are imported, mostly from China

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