National hydrogen strategies and other policies for promoting hydrogen economy

Hydrogen as an energy carrier is one of the most viable options to replace fossil fuels in the energy sector considering the current status quo that requires effective decarbonizing solutions. Commercializing hydrogen could curb many issues such as dependence on fossil fuels, lack of energy storage, air pollution, limitations on energy security, and inefficiency in energy production. Therefore, all countries must come up with effective strategies and policies to upscale the hydrogen economy. As most of the hydrogen is produced globally through steam-methane reforming and coal gasification, cleaner hydrogen production alternatives such as electrolysis and thermal water splitting powered by renewable sources are being considered. The transition toward low-carbon hydrogen can only be made possible by implementing policies that introduce financial incentives, regulations, collaboration, research, and development. Reviewing successful case studies from different parts of the world paved pathways to build roadmaps on hydrogen strategies. However, administrating hydrogen as a leading energy source comes with many challenges and limitations, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries. Thus, this chapter presents constructive information that provides opportunities and recommendations associated with promoting the hydrogen economy.