The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government’s plan to develop the hydrogen fuel industry is a significant step toward reducing the city’s reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate change. The use of hydrogen fuel cells is a promising alternative to traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles as it produces zero greenhouse gas emissions and emits only water vapor.

The HKSAR government plans to introduce hydrogen fuel cell double-decker buses and heavy-duty vehicles and install hydrogen refueling stations in 2023. The 2022 Policy Address also proposed the development of a long-term strategy for the use of hydrogen in land transport by 2025 or earlier. To achieve these goals, a cross-departmental working group is currently assessing and reviewing regulations related to this initiative.

In recent years, many countries have adopted hydrogen energy development strategies, as well as related laws and certification standards. For example, Japan launched its Basic Hydrogen Strategy in 2017, which aims to establish a “hydrogen society” by 2050, with hydrogen playing a central role in the country’s energy mix. The European Union has also set ambitious targets for the deployment of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and the production of low-carbon hydrogen. Singapore released Charting the Energy Transition to 2050 in 2022, which outlines nine transitions, including the use of low-carbon hydrogen for power generation. The South Korean government published a Hydrogen Economy Roadmap in 2019, and signaled that it will make every effort to develop the hydrogen industry. The HKSAR government should also formulate a comprehensive road map for the development of a hydrogen industry in the city.

Moreover, the HKSAR government needs to explore closer cooperation with the Chinese mainland in the development of a hydrogen-related industry in order to better align with the country and the international community in this field. Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan responded to Legislative Councilor Hoey Simon Lee’s motion “Comprehensively promoting the development of a hydrogen energy industry in Hong Kong” in the Legislative Council on March 29, stating that Hong Kong must shoulder greater responsibilities and missions in the overall national development, and jointly promote high-quality development. The HKSAR government should adopt the basic principles proposed in the national Hydrogen Energy Plan and refer to the experiences and research results of other cities both on the mainland and overseas to explore and promote the development of the hydrogen energy industry in Hong Kong. By doing so, Hong Kong can position itself as a major regional player in the development of the hydrogen industry and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change.

To achieve these goals, the HKSAR government needs to consider the use of hydrogen vehicles and develop timelines and road maps to provide sufficient resources and enhance coordination among different departments. The government must effectively develop and execute an interconnected road map to realize the full potential of the hydrogen fuel industry in Hong Kong.

The development of the hydrogen industry in Hong Kong is a promising opportunity for the city to reduce its carbon emissions and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change. The government should take a comprehensive approach that includes legislative and infrastructure work, research and development, social and economic considerations, and international cooperation

One of the biggest challenges facing the development of the hydrogen industry in Hong Kong is public perception. Many residents are skeptical about the safety of hydrogen, with some considering it too dangerous to use. The government needs to invest in promoting and explaining the benefits of hydrogen fuel cells, as well as dispelling any misconceptions about the technology.

Hong Kong has a significant advantage in developing the hydrogen industry as it is one of the busiest ports in the world. Hydrogen can be produced from renewable energy sources and transported through the port to other regions. The government should consider developing Hong Kong’s port as a hydrogen hub to facilitate the import and export of hydrogen fuel.

One key advantage of hydrogen fuel cell technology is that it can be used in a variety of applications, including transportation, power generation and industrial processes. This versatility makes it an attractive option for many countries looking to diversify their energy sources and reduce their carbon emissions.

Hong Kong can learn from these experiences and develop a comprehensive plan for the development of the hydrogen industry that takes into account the unique characteristics of its economy and society. For example, the city’s dense urban environment may require different approaches from other places to the deployment of hydrogen refueling stations and the use of hydrogen-powered vehicles. The government should engage with stakeholders from the private sector and civil society to develop a plan that is inclusive and takes into account the concerns and needs of different groups.

Another important aspect of developing the hydrogen industry is research and development. Hong Kong has world-class universities and research institutions that can contribute to the development of new materials, technologies and processes related to hydrogen energy. The government should provide funding and support for research in this area and encourage collaboration between academia and industry. The development of the hydrogen industry can be an important area of cooperation between Hong Kong and the mainland. By working together, the two sides can leverage their respective strengths and contribute to the development of a sustainable and low-carbon economy.

In conclusion, the development of the hydrogen industry in Hong Kong is a promising opportunity for the city to reduce its carbon emissions and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change. The government should take a comprehensive approach that includes legislative and infrastructure work, research and development, social and economic considerations, and international cooperation. By doing so, Hong Kong and the mainland can position themselves as leaders in the development of the hydrogen industry in the region and contribute to a more sustainable future for all. 

The author is deputy director of the policy committee of the Youth of Guangzhou and Hong Kong Association.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.