APEC Strengthens Collaboration on Low-Carbon Hydrogen as a Clean Energy Carrier

Lima, Peru, 13 August 2024 – APEC member economies are intensifying efforts to harness clean and low-carbon hydrogen as a critical component of the region’s sustainable energy future.

During a workshop hosted by APEC Peru 2024 in Lima this past Sunday, policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers gathered to share best practices, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities for integrating hydrogen into the energy mix. The focus of the discussions was on developing roadmaps that set clear targets, establish market-driven indicators, and outline actionable steps to scale up the production of clean and low-carbon hydrogen.

“In the face of the immediate challenges posed by the energy and climate crisis, our economies have taken on an increasingly crucial role in global trade and renewable energy supply chains,” said Rómulo Mucho, Peru’s Minister of Energy and Mines, in his opening remarks. “At the same time, we are tasked with transitioning toward more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive development.”

Minister Mucho emphasized the continued importance of energy resources in this transition, stating, “The demand for secure, affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy will foster collaborative dynamics that push our economies to address the challenges within our energy matrix.”

The workshop featured a panel of experts who discussed projects aimed at shifting from fossil fuels to clean energy sources. The session underscored the need for harmonized regulatory frameworks and innovative financing mechanisms to support the adoption of hydrogen technologies, considering all stages of the sector’s value chain, including transportation and electricity generation.

Despite the growing focus on clean and low-carbon hydrogen, Dr. Kazutomo Irie, President of the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre (APERC), highlighted the uncertainty surrounding its future viability as a low-emission energy source. Dr. Irie pointed to cost competitiveness and delays in infrastructure development as key challenges that could hinder the widespread adoption of hydrogen.

“Technological advancements, economies of scale, and cumulative production will help reduce costs,” Dr. Irie explained. “However, until substantial cost reductions are achieved, the commercial development of a clean, low-carbon hydrogen market will heavily depend on supportive government policies, including subsidies, which vary widely among economies.”

Participants also discussed the development of domestic hydrogen strategies, stressing the importance of cross-border collaboration to achieve regional energy goals. Representatives from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Chinese Taipei, and Thailand shared diverse perspectives on the challenges and successes of hydrogen initiatives in their respective economies.

A special session highlighted the pivotal role women play in the hydrogen and renewable energy sectors. Speakers explored how women are breaking barriers and shaping policies that promote sustainable practices and clean technologies.

“APEC’s commitment to advancing hydrogen technologies demonstrates the region’s leadership in promoting innovative solutions to global challenges and driving sustainable economic growth,” said Ariadne BenAissa, lead shepherd for the APEC Energy Working Group.

The workshop concluded with a call to action for APEC economies to continue collaborating on hydrogen initiatives, ensuring that the region remains at the forefront of the global clean energy transition.

Later this week, Minister Mucho will host his counterparts for the APEC Energy Ministerial Meeting in Lima on 15-16 August. They will further discuss strategies and technologies to ensure just, inclusive, and sustainable energy transitions, as well as policies and actions for hydrogen development within APEC economies.