Nowadays, climate change is a major concern for many countries. An example of this is the European Union, which has committed to the modernization and transformation of its member countries to achieve an emission-neutral economy by 2050.
Achieving this goal is necessary and possible. That is why Europe has increased strategic efforts on the matter in recent years, promoting initiatives such as the commitment to hydrogen as a source of energy in different industries, like the rail sector. Renewable hydrogen is a considerable investment opportunity of 550-700,000 million euros with a potential reduction of 450-550 Mt CO 2 (or 10% of Europe’s annual emissions).
In 2018, Alstom, a French company, started operating the world’s first two hydrogen trains, named “Coradia iLint.” From 2018 to 2020, these trains traveled 180,000 kilometers in regular passenger service and proved to be a success. This project was honored with the European Railway 2021 award, organized by the European Rail Supply Industry Association (UNIFE) and the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER).
Following this line, the principal European renewable energy organizations have launched the Renewable Hydrogen Coalition to raise visibility and promote this energy. This coalition, together with the European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, presented the EU 2020 hydrogen strategy, where they established a production target of 10 million tons of renewable hydrogen by 2030 as a fundamental part of the fulfillment of the Green Pact.
To achieve this, Europe must promote the inclusion of policies and actions that help reverse the current emissions path and manage the transition to a green future. But it does not end there. Addressing global climate requires generating worldwide efforts, promoting favorable trade policies and cooperation between nations for a global transformation towards sustainable development.
Developing modern and innovative technologies lies in being aware that the key to success depends on finding the ideal balance between perseverance and agility, especially in times of uncertainty and change. Europe’s efforts are undoubtedly remarkable. Now, other countries must join them. This fight belongs to all of us.
Owner of several companies in the energy and mining sector, and inventor of the design and engineering of the Super Matroid Heater and Ultra Filtration Systems for the oil and gas industries.
