Editorial

The inaugural Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe in Hamburg at the end of October impressively demonstrated that the international hydrogen community is growing. This will allow important areas of our economy to become climate neutral in future. From measuring-equipment manufacturers through certification providers, tank producers and terminal operators to fuel cell suppliers, more than 800 domestic and international exhibitors demonstrated the entire hydrogen value chain and presented an impressive range of products.

Together with 20 co-exhibitors, the Renewable Energy Hamburg Cluster Agency spent two days welcoming an almost non-stop stream of visitors. There was a fantastic atmosphere and a great deal of public interest. Even if some developments in the hydrogen economy will take a little longer than was expected a few years ago, the positive momentum is discernible in both products and (international) projects. This situation is reminiscent of that of offshore wind energy shortly after the turn of the century: most of the regulatory and technical foundations have been laid. These are now culminating in a range of pilot projects that are important for completing the inevitable learning curve within just a few years and are leading to a mass market for fully developed products.

All of these are familiar phenomena from innovation theory. Our Cluster Agency and our team thoroughly enjoyed being part of this pivotal moment in hydrogen development at Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe in Hamburg. We’re confident that this positive momentum will continue in 2025 and beyond!