Financing the hydrogen industry: exploring demand and supply chain dynamics

Harichandan, S., Kar, S.K. (2023). “Financing the hydrogen industry: exploring demand and supply chain dynamics.” Environmental Science and Pollution Research. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-023-30262-9

Abstract

The hydrogen industry has garnered substantial attention as a pivotal solution in addressing the intricate challenges of energy transition and achieving decarbonization across diverse sectors. The efficacy of deploying hydrogen technologies hinges upon the availability of robust financing mechanisms that can adequately support the dynamic demands and intricate supply chain intricacies inherent in the hydrogen sector. This comprehensive study is underpinned by a rigorous and systematic review of prior research on the hydrogen economy, leveraging authoritative databases including Web of Science, Scopus, and a range of consultancy-based reports. The study meticulously assesses the escalating interest in hydrogen as a paramount clean energy alternative, emphasizing its significance in propelling the multifaceted development and expansion of hydrogen supply chain dynamics. Furthermore, this research critically scrutinizes the intricate financial facets of the hydrogen sector, with a specific focus on delineating the drivers of demand and unraveling the complexities interwoven within the supply chain. Building upon this analysis, the study offers a forward-looking perspective on hydrogen financing, which considers emerging technologies, evolving policy landscapes, and dynamic market trends. In the face of existing global constraints within the hydrogen supply chain, innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds, project financing underwritten by risk guarantees through public–private partnership paradigms, venture capital-equity models, and carbon pricing mechanisms emerge as indispensable tools poised to address these challenges effectively.