EU and Japan vow to intensify hydrogen cooperation

The European Union and Japan have signed a memorandum of cooperation to stimulate innovation and development of the international hydrogen market.

Calling the parties "leaders in hydrogen technology," the EU said they will work together to produce, trade, transport, store, distribute and use green and low-carbon hydrogen in a sustainable and affordable way.

“Cooperation will help create a rules-based and transparent global market for hydrogen without distortions in trade and investment,” the EU added.

Under an agreement signed by EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson and Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, governments aim to create 100 hydrogen valleys by 2030. and the development of global targets for renewable and low-carbon hydrogen.

Among other things, the cooperation also focuses on an open market without export restrictions and standards for qualifying hydrogen as renewable or low-carbon, as well as related certification.

Japan is one of the world's largest importers of natural gas and is a strong advocate for hydrogen. The EU notes that both sides have already committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2040 and accelerating the transition to clean energy, as envisaged by the EU-Japan Green Alliance.

Now the European bloc is emphasizing that hydrogen can make a crucial contribution to both the green transition and energy security, and is looking to step up cooperation with Japan. These efforts will include governments, industry players, research institutions and local governments in areas ranging from policy, regulation and incentives to best practices, project development, education and skills development.