In view of the climate crisis, an energy transition is indispensable. As part of this energy transition, hydrogen is currently very popular in the German and European transformation plans. The German government adopted a National Hydrogen Strategy (NWS) in 2020. The goal is to build a hydrogen economy as a pillar of the energy transition. However, Germany's foreseeable high hydrogen demand can only be provided domestically to a very small extent. Germany is therefore striving for hydrogen cooperation with countries on all continents in order to import large quantities.
There are dangers such as a threat to the energy supply and energy transition in the exporting countries, increased water scarcity especially in the course of the climate crisis, land grabbing and violation of indigenous rights and land rights as well as profit accumulation in the hands of a few. This could exacerbate injustices and environmental-social burdens. Also, green hydrogen is not automatically 100. % climate neutral. In addition, there is a large gap between planned, realistic expansion and the required renewable energy capacities. This could create fossil lock-ins if hydrogen continues to be produced with gas or coal for lack of renewable energy.
Therefore: Hydrogen must be produced 100% from renewable energies and targeted in sectors where there is no more sustainable alternative. In doing so:
the conditions of production and trade must be fair and responsible. Further criteria on how hydrogen should be used and which socio-ecological standards are relevant are mentioned in this publication.
