3561 Research report: Understanding stakeholder needs and integration challenges across the hydrogen value-chain

Overview:

This report covers the range of stakeholders involved in the entire low-carbon hydrogen value chain, their relationships, needs, integration issues, and challenges. The increase in developmental activities in the entire low-carbon hydrogen value chain has led to a growing number of stakeholders with diverse interests, making understanding their roles crucial for the advancement of the hydrogen economy.

This study presents insights into stakeholders based on literature review and engagement in various projects across the hydrogen value chain, including production, transportation/distribution, storage, and utilisation. Projects range from hydrogen clusters to standalone production and storage initiatives, as well as natural gas pipeline re-purposing.

About 55 stakeholder categories were identified and grouped into three Tiers based on their level of impact:

• Tier 1: Stakeholders crucial for any hydrogen development project to proceed, including government at all levels and regulatory bodies.
• Tier 2: Stakeholders whose engagement ensures the development of safe and reliable hydrogen facilities, such as technology licensors, engineering consultants, and utility suppliers.
• Tier 3: Relevant stakeholders whose engagement may not be critical but could contribute to the project's success, including lobby groups, NGOs, etc.

This research report highlights the importance of understanding stakeholders for guiding the development and integration of the hydrogen economy, crucial for successful implementation of hydrogen projects towards a sustainable future.