THE HYDROGEN REVOLUTION: LEADING THE WAY FOR A CLEANER, HEALTHIER THAILAND  

The rise of hydrogen

In the quest for a sustainable future, hydrogen has emerged as a promising zero-carbon energy source with the potential to revolutionise the global energy landscape. With nations worldwide recognising the urgency of decarbonising their economies, Thailand stands at the precipice of an energy transition that promises a greener, more sustainable future. At the heart of this transformation lies hydrogen - an element that has the potential to redefine energy and pave the way for a cleaner, more prosperous Thailand.

The Market Outlook

Thailand's energy transition is a strategic response to the environmental challenges. The country is actively steering toward a future powered by renewable energy. Solar and wind sources were emerging as mainstays in the national energy mix, and the government had set ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and lower the country's dependence on fossil fuels.

However, the pursuit of a more sustainable energy future is not a task for the government alone. The private sector, with its innovation, investment, and expertise, is an equally vital player. This synergy between the public and private sectors is the cornerstone of Thailand's energy transition journey.

Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, has long been hailed as a clean energy carrier with the potential to mitigate climate change and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. And it is emerging as the linchpin of Thailand's energy transition strategy.

Hydrogen's Strategic Role

This incredible element has a spectrum of colors - grey, blue, and green - each signifying its origin and environmental impact. But it's the green hydrogen, derived from renewable sources such as wind and solar energy, that holds the key to a sustainable and cleaner future.

An intriguing and promising aspect is the intention to use hydrogen as a pivotal element in Thailand's journey towards achieving net-zero emissions. This strategic choice to leverage hydrogen suggests a deliberate and forward-thinking approach to managing the country's energy future.

Grey Hydrogen: Traditionally produced from fossil fuels with associated CO2 emissions, grey hydrogen has found its place in industrial applications and remains relevant, especially in the short term. However, Thailand's objective is to advance carbon capture and storage techniques to mitigate the environmental footprint.

Blue Hydrogen: Thailand is also exploring the possibilities of blue hydrogen, produced from natural gas with carbon capture and storage, which represents a cleaner alternative, bridging the transition to fully green hydrogen.

Green Hydrogen: The shining star of Thailand's energy transition, green hydrogen, is produced from renewable energy sources. Thailand's abundant solar and wind resources position it as an ideal candidate for large-scale green hydrogen production. This form of hydrogen is set to revolutionise not only industrial processes but also serve as a clean fuel for vehicles, homes, and businesses.  

Shifting from grey to blue hydrogen production and investing in green hydrogen are crucial steps in reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainability. It becomes evident that the utilisation of hydrogen in the country is currently on the lower side, and there is a lack of a clear direction in the broader energy transition.  

The Demand For Hydrogen

What exactly is driving this surge in demand, and what does the future hold for Thailand's hydrogen economy?

The demand for hydrogen in 2022 was about 95 million tons of hydrogen and is expected to hit 614 million tons by 2050.  Supporting net-zero policies and leveraging hydrogen for long-term mobility is vital.

Decarbonisation: One of the primary drivers of hydrogen demand in Thailand is the commitment to decarbonize the energy sector. Hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen, is seen as a vital tool in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Energy Security: As an energy-importing nation, Thailand has sought to enhance its energy security by diversifying its energy sources. Hydrogen presents a valuable opportunity to reduce dependence on energy imports.

Transportation: The burgeoning interest in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) is also fueling the demand for hydrogen. Thailand is studying the adoption of FCEVs to reduce emissions in the transportation sector.

Industrial Applications: Hydrogen's use in various industrial applications is expected to increase. It offers the potential to replace fossil fuels in sectors such as petrochemicals, thereby reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency.

The Future Of Hydrogen

The future of hydrogen in Thailand appears promising, and several factors point to a robust hydrogen economy. With green hydrogen projects that are primarily led by major enterprises currently underway, this strategic focus on green hydrogen production is not just a noteworthy development; it is a testament to the commitment towards achieving carbon neutrality.  

Infrastructure Development: Thailand needs a clear direction in the development and investment of hydrogen refueling stations network to support FCEV adoption. This infrastructure will be vital for expanding the use of hydrogen in transportation.

Collaborative Ecosystem: The government and private sector are collaborating to advance hydrogen technologies and drive investment in production, distribution, and utilisation. This collaborative ecosystem is set to accelerate the growth of the hydrogen economy.

Green Hydrogen Production: Thailand's abundant solar and wind resources provide a solid foundation for green hydrogen production. The development of renewable energy projects is expected to bolster green hydrogen generation.

Economic Growth: The growth of the hydrogen sector is not just environmentally advantageous; it also holds the potential for job creation, economic growth, and a thriving hydrogen industry.

The Government And Private Sector Must Collaborate

To make hydrogen a mainstay in Thailand's energy transition, both the public and private sectors are actively engaged in a collaborative effort. The Thai Government's forthcoming Alternative Energy Development Plan in 2024 holds promise for providing clear direction and goals for hydrogen management, aligning with the country's sustainable energy transition. Here's an outline of an Alternative Energy Development Plan for Thailand, with hydrogen at its core:

Emphasise Green Hydrogen Production: Prioritise the development of green hydrogen, which is produced from renewable energy sources. Thailand's ample solar and wind resources provide a solid foundation for large-scale green hydrogen production.

Renewable Energy Expansion: Continue investing in and expanding the capacity of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to power the electrolysis process for green hydrogen production.

Hydrogen Infrastructure Development: Establish a comprehensive network of hydrogen refueling stations for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) across the country. Encourage partnerships with private sector companies to create an extensive and accessible refueling network.

Research and Development: Invest in research and development initiatives to advance hydrogen technologies, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the cost of green hydrogen production. Collaborate with universities, research institutions, and private companies for innovation.

Incentives and Policy Framework: Create a policy framework that provides financial incentives and tax benefits to companies involved in hydrogen production, distribution, and utilisation. These incentives can attract private sector investment.

Collaboration with International Partners: Collaborate with countries at the forefront of hydrogen technology, such as Japan and China, to exchange knowledge, best practices, and encourage international investment in Thailand's hydrogen sector.

Industrial and Transportation Transition: Encourage the industrial sector to adopt green hydrogen for manufacturing processes, such as petrochemicals and steel production, reducing carbon emissions. Also, promote the use of fuel cell technology in public transportation and commercial fleets, including buses and delivery vehicles.

Integration with the Power Grid: Explore the integration of hydrogen production facilities with the national power grid. Hydrogen can be produced during periods of surplus renewable energy and used during high energy demand, contributing to grid stability.

Economic Growth and Job Creation: Recognise the economic growth potential of the hydrogen sector. Job creation and economic development can result from investments in green hydrogen production, infrastructure, and research and development.

Education and Public Awareness: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the benefits of hydrogen and FCEVs. Encourage consumer adoption and acceptance of clean hydrogen technologies.

Clearly, the development of Thailand's Alternative Energy Plan centered around hydrogen offers a path to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved energy security, and economic growth.

The Role Of Testing, Inspection And Certification

As this transition unfolds, the role of global leaders in testing, inspection, and certification services (TIC) cannot be understated as they are at the forefront of ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of hydrogen-related technologies. Their expertise is instrumental in accelerating the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy solution and ushering in a sustainable and carbon-neutral future. As we continue to invest in hydrogen technologies, collaboration between industry leaders, policymakers, and TIC experts will be essential in realising the full potential of this remarkable energy source.

As a global leader, Bureau Veritas has developed a holistic certification scheme for renewable hydrogen, thus supporting the growing renewables sector and accelerating the energy transition. This certification scheme is in line with Bureau Veritas’ commitment, through its BV Green Line, to provide services and solutions that accelerate the energy transition, and are dedicated to sustainability, notably in resources and production.

1.    Safety Certification: We have developed rigorous safety standards and certification processes for hydrogen production, transportation, and storage systems, ensuring they meet the highest safety standards.

2.    Quality Assurance: Stringent quality control measures are essential for the production of high-purity hydrogen. Providing quality assurance for hydrogen production processes, Bureau Veritas ensures that the end product meets strict purity criteria.

3.    Performance Testing: Hydrogen fuel cells and other hydrogen-based technologies require precise performance testing to ensure efficiency and reliability. We develop and conduct these tests to guarantee optimal performance.

4.    Compliance with Regulations: Hydrogen projects must adhere to a complex web of international, national, and local regulations. Bureau Veritas helps companies navigate these regulations & codes, ensure in verification and compliance.

5.    Environmental Impact Assessment: We evaluate the environmental impact of hydrogen projects to ensure they align with sustainability goals.

A Vision Of A Sustainable Tomorrow

The journey to a sustainable future, powered by hydrogen, is a shared one. Thailand's energy transition outlook is underpinned by a collaborative vision, where the public and private sectors unite to bring about a cleaner, more prosperous nation. This dynamic partnership between the government's vision and the private sector's innovation and investment is the driving force behind Thailand's hydrogen-powered future.

As we stand on the brink of a new era, where clean and sustainable energy reigns supreme, it is hydrogen that will play the role of the catalyst, igniting change and propelling Thailand toward a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow. Together, we are steering our nation toward an energy horizon where sustainability isn't just a dream; it's our shared reality. Thailand's energy transition, with hydrogen at its core, is a testament to our commitment to a cleaner, greener future.