Sep 7, 2020
France's national strategy emphasizes the pivotal role of decarbonised hydrogen in its ecological transition, planning to invest €7bn by 2030. The strategy prioritizes decarbonising the industrial sector, promoting hydrogen-based heavy-duty mobility, and bolstering research and innovation, with the aim of installing 6.5 GW of electrolysers by 2030 and creating up to 150,000 jobs.
The document titled "National strategy for the development of decarbonised and renewable hydrogen in France" outlines France's vision and commitment to advancing the hydrogen sector as a pivotal component of its ecological transition. Here's a summary:
Introduction and Editorial:
France views decarbonised hydrogen as a revolutionary technology for the 21st century, essential for decarbonising the industrial sector, promoting emission-free mobility, and addressing the intermittent nature of renewable energies.
France aims to invest €7bn by 2030, focusing on technological development and ecological transition.
Priority for France:
Decarbonised hydrogen is crucial for France due to its environmental, economic, energy sovereignty, and technological independence stakes.
France aims to reduce its dependence on oil and gas imports and leverage its low CO2 electricity mix for hydrogen production.
Support for Hydrogen Development:
France has been proactive in supporting the hydrogen sector, with investments exceeding €100m through the Investments for the Future programme (PIA) and other agencies.
A broad consultation identified barriers and opportunities, resulting in over 160 applications representing €32.5bn in investments.
Goals of the Strategy:
The strategy aims to install 6.5 GW of electrolysers by 2030, promote clean mobility, especially for heavy-duty vehicles, and establish a robust industrial sector, creating between 50,000 and 150,000 jobs.
Three Priorities:
Decarbonising Industry: Develop a French electrolysis sector, targeting 6.5 GW by 2030. Replace fossil hydrogen in industries like refining and chemical production.
Heavy-duty Mobility: Hydrogen technologies are ideal for heavy-duty vehicles, offering a solution for long-range and high-power needs. The focus is on vehicles like buses, trucks, and non-electrified trains.
Research, Innovation, and Skills Development: The strategy emphasizes supporting research and innovation to foresee future applications of hydrogen.
Investment Breakdown:
Of the €3.4bn allocated for 2020-2023, 54% is for decarbonising the industry, 27% for developing professional hydrogen mobility, and 19% for research, innovation, and skills development.
This strategy aligns with France's broader vision of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and establishing itself as a global leader in the hydrogen sector.
Read the strategy here: