Japan’s ‘hydrogen economy’ runs the risk of being powered by coal

It’s no secret that Japan is betting on hydrogen as a clean and green energy source.Japan was the first country in the world to launch a national hydrogen strategy, with then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe unveiling the policy in 2017.Since then, more than 30 countries and regions — including South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom and the European Union — have followed suit, demonstrating an acceleration of government interest in the role of hydrogen as part of a nation’s long-term energy goals.“Hydrogen is key for sustainable development,” says Eiji Ohira, director general of the fuel cell and hydrogen technology office at the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). “It can be produced from a variety of sources, does not emit greenhouse gasses when used and can help to power various different sectors.”Japan ultimately aims to become…

Read more…