Cautious start for hydrogen power take-up

Secretary for the Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan said there is a need for a cautious approach to the development of hydrogen power, citing its early-stage applications worldwide.

Hong Kong is preparing to announce its strategy for hydrogen development next month.

Tse said the scale and speed of hydrogen power development would depend on whether its economic benefits surpass those of other green and low-carbon technologies.

In his blog yesterday, he cited recent progress made in the local hydrogen energy sector, such as the introduction of the first double-decker bus and the construction of public refueling stations.

He expressed optimism about hydrogen's potential, citing growing demand for green and low-carbon technologies as part of the global carbon-neutral goal.

Tse underscored the broader impact of hydrogen energy development, saying "it will stimulate the construction of related technologies and facilities, create job opportunities, and promote economic growth.

"Hong Kong is a leading international city and financial center that can showcase low-carbon green technology while offering green financing and professional services."

However, Tse cautioned against excessive aggressiveness in hydrogen power development due to the early stage of its applications worldwide.

"Green hydrogen, which is generated from renewable energy sources, is limited in supply and its costs are high, and there is uncertainty surrounding its future cost advantage," he said, adding that it is important to maintain flexibility in the scale and speed of local hydrogen energy strategies.

Tse also said the SAR has been studying China's hydrogen energy industry as the Environment and Ecology Bureau currently formulates its strategy on hydrogen development.

"The strategy, incorporating industry and expert input, is scheduled to be announced in the following month, reflecting the government's commitment to early preparations for the wider application of hydrogen energy in the future."