In the global pursuit of net-zero emissions by 2050, hydrogen infrastructure is emerging as a critical piece of the puzzle. A recent study published in the journal *Combustion* (formerly known as ‘Fuels’) offers a comparative analysis of hydrogen infrastructure development across four diverse nations: the United States, Canada, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. The research, led by Myo Myo Khaing from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Waterloo, sheds light on the unique approaches and shared challenges these countries face in their hydrogen strategies.
Each nation is tackling hydrogen infrastructure with a strategy tailored to its geographic and economic realities. Canada, for instance, is leveraging its abundant natural resources to produce hydrogen on a large scale, retrofitting existing natural gas pipelines and integrating carbon capture technology to reduce emissions. “Canada’s approach is about maximizing its natural advantages while ensuring that infrastructure is adaptable and scalable,” Khaing explains.
The United States, on the other hand, is fostering regional hydrogen hubs through federal investment and intersectoral collaboration. This decentralized model aims to create localized solutions that can be replicated across the country. Meanwhile, Singapore, constrained by its limited land area, is focusing on an innovation-driven, import-dominant strategy. The city-state is investing in hydrogen-compatible infrastructure and positioning itself as a hub for hydrogen imports.
Sri Lanka, with its developing economy, is taking a more cautious approach, focusing on pilot-scale projects facilitated by donor funding and foreign collaboration. “Sri Lanka’s strategy is about learning by doing, using small-scale projects to build expertise and infrastructure,” Khaing notes.
Despite their differences, all four countries face common challenges, including hydrogen embrittlement, leakages, and the scalability of infrastructure. The study highlights the importance of localized solutions supported by strong international cooperation. “The key to success lies in adaptability, partnership, and policy architecture,” Khaing emphasizes.
The findings of this research could significantly shape future developments in the hydrogen sector. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, countries can better design their own hydrogen strategies. The emphasis on international collaboration and digitalization also points to a future where hydrogen infrastructure is not only technologically advanced but also globally interconnected.
As the world moves towards a net-zero future, hydrogen infrastructure will play a pivotal role. This study provides valuable insights into how different countries are navigating this complex landscape, offering lessons that could accelerate the global transition to clean energy.