Mapping the Best Routes for Renewable Hydrogen in Europe
As Europe pushes for a climate-neutral energy system, renewable hydrogen is becoming a key tool for cutting emissions. While much attention has focused on producing hydrogen efficiently, transporting it over long distances is now emerging as a bigger challenge. The question is how to move hydrogen in a way that is affordable and truly low-carbon.
A new study from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) compares different hydrogen delivery methods. It shows which routes are most cost-effective and environmentally friendly, providing clear guidance for Europe’s growing hydrogen market.
Hydrogen’s Role in Decarbonisation
Renewable hydrogen can help decarbonise sectors that are hard to electrify, including heavy industry, shipping, and long-distance transport. The EU aims to produce 10 million tonnes domestically and import another 10 million tonnes by 2030.
While electrolyser technology has made hydrogen production more efficient, large-scale transport remains complex. Hydrogen can take many forms, such as compressed gas, liquid, ammonia, methanol, or liquid organic carriers. Each method has different costs, infrastructure needs, and emissions. Choosing the wrong one could reduce the climate benefits.
Combining Economics and Environment
The JRC team used a combined techno-economic and life-cycle assessment. This approach weighs both financial costs and environmental impact. They modelled hydrogen produced in Portugal and transported about 2,500 km to the Netherlands, reflecting realistic European routes.
They assessed five delivery options and compared ship versus pipeline transport. The study looked at both infrastructure requirements and conversion steps needed to move hydrogen.
Liquid and Compressed Hydrogen Lead
Results show that liquid hydrogen shipped by sea and compressed hydrogen via pipelines are the best options. They are cheaper and produce fewer emissions. Fewer conversion steps and lower energy use make these methods stand out.
Chemical carriers such as ammonia, methanol, or liquid organic hydrogen perform worse. They are easier to handle but require extra conversion steps. This increases energy use, costs, and emissions. They also demand larger renewable electricity installations.
Distance Shapes the Choice
The optimal delivery method depends on transport distance. For very long routes—up to 10,000 km—liquid hydrogen remains competitive because of its high energy density. Compressed hydrogen becomes less attractive due to higher fuel use and more transport needs.
This shows that hydrogen infrastructure planning must consider geography and scale. A one-size-fits-all approach will not work.
Renewable Hydrogen and the Energy Transition
Hydrogen can store excess renewable power, stabilise energy systems, and cut emissions in hard-to-electrify sectors. When produced and transported sustainably, it bridges the gap between renewable energy generation and difficult-to-abate emissions.
Guiding Policy and Investment
The study helps policymakers and investors make informed decisions. It highlights trade-offs between cost, emissions, and infrastructure. Repurposing existing gas pipelines for compressed hydrogen is a promising option. Continued innovation is still needed to reduce environmental impact and improve efficiency.
As Europe scales up its hydrogen economy, research like this is vital. It ensures renewable hydrogen lives up to its promise as a sustainable, low-carbon energy solution.
