Europe's green hydrogen ambitions face risks due to heavy reliance on Chinese materials for electrolyser production, according to EU-backed research. China supplies over one-third of raw materials for key technologies (alkaline, SOEC, AEM), as well as significant processed materials. This dependency, alongside cheaper Chinese electrolysers, creates, according to ING THINK analysis, strategic challenges.
Europe's green hydrogen ambitions face risks due to heavy reliance on Chinese materials for electrolyser production, according to EU-backed research. China supplies over one-third of raw materials for key technologies (alkaline, SOEC, AEM), as well as significant processed materials. This dependency, alongside cheaper Chinese electrolysers, creates, according to ING THINK analysis, strategic challenges.
Key findings from the research and current market analysis include:-
High Dependency Rates: -
Over 40 raw materials and 60 processed materials are required, with China supplying over 37% of these materials.
Cost Disparities: -
Chinese-made electrolysers are significantly cheaper—around one-quarter of the price of Western alternatives—due to established manufacturing capabilities.
Strategic Risks: -
The reliance extends across the supply chain, potentially undermining Europe's goal to achieve 10 GW of domestic hydrogen production by 2030.
Policy Response: -
To mitigate risks, the EU is focusing on the Critical Raw Materials Act, aiming to diversify sources, increase recycling, and secure supply chains.
The European Union Institute for Security Studies suggests that the EU must balance these dependencies with its green energy goals, potentially through, according to the European Union Institute for Security Studies, targeted procurement and, as discussed by the European Union Institute for Security Studies, stricter standards.
Amid a green hydrogen backlash in the US, and Europe's ongoing challenges to stimulate hydrogen demand, global attention is shifting to China.
MJF Lion ER YK Sharma
Comments
Post a Comment