In an era of relentless search for sustainable energy solutions, hydrogen is opening new avenues for the commercial trucking industry. The industry is gradually moving towards the use of hydrogen fuel cell technology, valued for its rapid charging capacity and suitability for long-distance journeys. This new trend solves the critical problem of battery weight in electric vehicles, pointing to a greener horizon for heavy transportation.
Aviation enters the hydrogen race
Following the example of the trucking industry, aviation is also embarking on the path to decarbonization. Amid growing concerns over the high weight of electric batteries, hydrogen is emerging as a viable alternative for airlines striving to reduce their carbon footprint. The recent announcement by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry marks an important step in this direction.
“Our goal is to move the aviation industry from being a component supplier to a supplier of value-added products,” says Kazuchika Iwata, Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.
The path to hydrogen flight
With a considerable investment of 5 trillion yen ($33 billion), Japan aims to launch a next-generation hydrogen airliner around 2035. This ambitious project is not limited to Japan’s borders; Major aviation players like Airbus, EasyJet and Rolls-Royce have set their sights on hydrogen and aim to fly emissions-free within the next two decades.
Optimism meets realism, however: industry experts stress the need for substantial funding. It is clear that the transition to hydrogen flight will require “colossal” investments from both the public and private sectors.
An ambitious leap for a greener horizon
Governments around the world will play a crucial role in the shift to hydrogen, with political and financial support proving essential to the transition.
A united front for hydrogen aviation
In September, aviation giants Airbus, Rolls-Royce and EasyJet came together to form the Hydrogen in Aviation (HIA) initiative. Their goal? Lay the foundation for the infrastructure, policy, regulation and safety frameworks essential to the advent of hydrogen-powered aircraft. The collaboration has also welcomed other industry leaders under its wing, including GKN Aerospace and Danish renewable energy company Orsted.
The IHA is driven by a vision in which government engagement is paramount in developing the regulations and standards needed to safely achieve hydrogen flight over the next decade. Johan Lundgren, CEO of EasyJet, highlighted the critical nature of policy preparation, suggesting it would be “unforgivable” if regulatory gaps delayed the operation of hydrogen aircraft that are technically ready to fly.
This month, the IHA called on the government to prioritize investment in hydrogen flights, highlighting the rapid technological progress in this area. Mr Lundgren hopes that with the right support, hydrogen flights could become a reality by the end of the 2030s, positioning the UK as a leader in this green aviation revolution. The initiative reflects a clear call to action for government to align with industry efforts, facilitating the shift to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation sector.