Hydrogen Patents for a Clean Energy Future

Hydrogen Patents for a Clean Energy Future

Foreword

The European Patent Office (EPO) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) have collaborated to produce this third study on hydrogen innovation trends since 2020. This report aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date review of patenting trends across various hydrogen technologies, including production, storage, distribution, and end-use applications.

Table of Contents

• Foreword
• List of Tables and Figures
• List of Abbreviations
• List of Countries
• Executive Summary
• Key Findings
• Introduction
  • Why Hydrogen?
  • The Need to Ramp Up Supply and Demand for Low-Emission Hydrogen
  • Why This Report?
  • Structure of the Report
• Hydrogen Patents: An Overview
  • Geography of Hydrogen Innovation

Key Findings

1. Global Energy Crisis and Hydrogen Innovation

   • The global energy crisis, exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, underscores the urgency to address energy security, access, climate change, and economic recovery.
   • Hydrogen produced from low-emissions sources can reduce reliance on fossil fuels in critical sectors such as long-haul transport and fertilizer production.
   • Near-term policies are needed to develop and improve hydrogen technologies and establish value chains for investment, equipment, and trade.

2. Patenting Trends Across the Hydrogen Value Chain

   • The report highlights the contribution of Europe to the emergence of new hydrogen technologies.
   • Start-ups play a significant role in hydrogen innovation, relying heavily on patents to bring new technologies to market.
   • However, there are areas requiring more innovation, especially in end-use applications, to unlock new applications of green hydrogen.

3. Competitive Landscape and Commercialization

   • Competition to lead in hydrogen innovation is intensifying, with the potential to drive commercialization.
   • The economic opportunity for countries that can translate research excellence into industrial competitiveness is substantial.
   • Installations of electrolysers could reach 380 gigawatts by 2030 in the IEA's Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, highlighting the economic potential.

4. Geographical Distribution of Innovation

   • Activity remains concentrated in a few regions, limiting the exchange of ideas.
   • Specific national challenges need to be addressed, such as helping Africa tap into low-cost clean energy.

Conclusion

The report provides a valuable guide for policymakers and decision-makers to assess comparative advantages, identify innovative companies and institutions, and direct resources towards promising technologies. Continued cooperation between the EPO and the IEA will help track progress in the transition to a new hydrogen economy.

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This summary captures the main points and key data from the provided text, focusing on the rationale for the report, the current state of hydrogen innovation, and the areas needing further attention.