2025
Jorge Fernández Gómez
https://doi.org/10.18543/TRVQ8033
Basque Institute of Competitiveness - Deusto Foundation
Abstract
In this report we analyze the current prospects for the development of international trade in renewable hydrogen and related products and their implications for shipping ports. In order to do this, we conducted a non-systematic review of academic and non-academic literature (with special emphasis on relevant international institutions). The preliminary literature review allows us to identify the most relevant challenges for the development of a global hydrogen market, including (a) the expected evolution of demand and supply of renewable hydrogen in the medium to long term; (b) production costs; (c) the economic feasibility of long-distance, maritime transport; (d) the development of the regulatory framework; (e) the development of port infrastructures; (f) transport-related environmental impacts and other risks (on health, safety, etc. ); and (g) the difficulty of financing projects. Despite the uncertain evolution of the global renewable hydrogen market, this energy vector is expected to play a relevant role in regional industrial hubs, with a limited volume of international trade and generally confined to continental regions.
Outlook for the development of international trade in hydrogen and related products. Potential implications for shipping ports.
