The Role of Hydrogen in Achieving Long Term Japanese Energy System Goals

Abstract

This research qualitatively reviews literature regarding energy system modeling in Japan specific to the future hydrogen economy, leveraging quantitative model outcomes to establish the potential future deployment of hydrogen in Japan. The analysis focuses on the four key sectors of storage, supplementing the gas grid, power generation, and transportation, detailing the potential range of hydrogen technologies which are expected to penetrate Japanese energy markets up to 2050 and beyond. Alongside key model outcomes, the appropriate policy settings, governance and market mechanisms are described which underpin the potential hydrogen economy future for Japan. We find that transportation, gas grid supplementation, and storage end-uses may emerge in significant quantities due to policies which encourage ambitious implementation targets, investment in technologies and research and development, and the emergence of a future carbon pricing regime. On the other hand, for Japan which will initially be dependent on imported hydrogen, the cost of imports appears critical to the emergence of broad hydrogen usage, particularly in the power generation sector. Further, the consideration of demographics in Japan, recognizing the aging, shrinking population and peoples’ energy use preferences will likely be instrumental in realizing a smooth transition toward a hydrogen economy.

The Role of Green and Blue Hydrogen in the Energy Transition—A Technological and Geopolitical Perspective

“…Hydrogen is increasingly being considered as a potential player in national and international strategies, to be applied to different sectors from industry to transport. Dedicated hydrogen strategies and roadmaps are being developed by major world economies, including Japan [1], Germany [2], Australia [3] and the European Union [4]. Research projects and industrial applications are addressing different components of the hydrogen pathway, which include generation, transmission, storage, distribution and final uses.…”

Research and Development Investment and Collaboration Framework for the Hydrogen Economy in South Korea

“…The regional variations were caused by the differences in the development paths of the regions [26]. Thus, it was challenging for the regions to adopt different development pathways because of the limited relevant skills and assets in technology and organizations [13]. To effectively reduce such limitations for regions with less-favored research and innovation systems, it was necessary to grasp the R&D projects that have been conducted therein and the responsible organizations in the specific research fields.…”

The Impact of Economic, Energy, and Environmental Factors on the Development of the Hydrogen Economy

“…In addition, they work with Air Liquide to strengthen the national refueling network [94]. The potential of hydrogen to create emission-free transport, industry, and energy generation is recognized, which will initiate a new phase of growing economy in Japan [95].…”