Japan is spearheading advancements in hydrogen technology, infrastructure, and applications, with Australia following closely behind, recently pledging AUD8 billion to boost its hydrogen industry. Strategically positioned between the two, Taiwan is leveraging its geographic advantage as local firms integrate into the Japan-Australia hydrogen supply chain.
Japan plans to implement a new hydrogen law in May 2024, aimed at accelerating the sector's growth. Industry giants such as Toyota, Eneos, and Iwatani are driving innovation in hydrogen technologies. Concurrently, Australia is focusing on green hydrogen production, harnessing its vast natural resources and renewable energy potential for exports.
Several Taiwanese companies, including HD Renewable Energy and Green Harvest Holdings, are establishing partnerships with Japanese and Australian counterparts to capitalize on hydrogen opportunities. Earlier this year, the inaugural Taiwan-Japan-Australia Hydrogen Forum convened in Tainan, bringing together industry leaders to discuss collaboration possibilities.
Japan's longstanding expertise in automotive manufacturing gives it an edge in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, while Taiwan's emerging capabilities in fuel cell production position it as a promising partner. Additionally, Australia's rapid progress in green hydrogen production opens doors for cooperation, as Taiwan faces challenges in producing hydrogen domestically. Importing green hydrogen from Australia could be crucial to bridging this gap.
However, obstacles persist. Producing true green hydrogen requires renewable energy, and transporting hydrogen internationally presents significant logistical challenges. Currently, hydrogen is stored in gas form and transported by trucks or cylinders, with large-scale shipping still years away from realization.
In Taiwan, progress is gradual. The nation's first hydrogen refueling station is set to begin operations in southern Taiwan by late 2024. Concurrently, Taiwan's first hydrogen-powered trailer is expected to debut. Despite ongoing discussions, the country's hydrogen infrastructure remains in its nascent stages.
Looking ahead, hydrogen applications will likely focus on heavy-duty transport, such as buses and trailers, where battery weight in electric vehicles reduces load capacity. Hydrogen, in contrast, offers greater efficiency for large vehicles.
Residential and commercial uses are also advancing. In the UK, hydrogen-powered boilers and heaters are undergoing testing, while Japan and the EU push forward with infrastructure projects. The next phase of hydrogen technology will likely concentrate on combined heat and power systems and high-power industrial applications.
