China Surpasses Japan in Green Hydrogen Innovation and Patents
China is rapidly emerging as the global leader in green hydrogen technologies, overtaking Japan in the number and competitiveness of related patents. According to Japanese research firm Astamuse, Chinese companies now dominate green hydrogen innovation, backed by strong government support and massive investments, especially since China’s announcement of its carbon peak targets in 2020.
Between 2013 and 2022, Astamuse analyzed 180,000 patents related to green hydrogen, evaluating them across five categories: production, storage, transport and supply, safety management, and end use. Chinese firms ranked first overall and led in four of the five categories, marking a major shift from an earlier 2011–2020 study where Japan had led.
China’s 2022 national hydrogen strategy elevated hydrogen to the same level of importance as solar and wind energy. The strategy set a target to produce 100,000–200,000 tons of green hydrogen annually by 2025—a goal that has already been surpassed. The rapid development has also drastically reduced hydrogen equipment costs in China, now estimated at just a quarter of those in Europe. This cost advantage has driven strong local demand, making China the world’s largest hydrogen market, accounting for 30% of global demand, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Major Chinese clean energy firms, such as LONGi and Sungrow, are now leveraging their dominance in solar and wind sectors to expand into hydrogen. This growth strategy is focused more on capturing market share than short-term profitability.
Chinese progress is also becoming visible in hydrogen transportation. Toyota executives warn that China is building out hydrogen truck infrastructure at a fast pace and that hydrogen fuel costs in China are about one-third of those in Japan. Without stronger international investments, Chinese companies may soon dominate the global hydrogen vehicle supply chain, just as they have with electric vehicles.
In response, Japan is offering subsidies to reduce the cost gap between hydrogen and fossil fuels and is increasing collaboration with the United States and South Korea on advanced hydrogen technologies. The European Union is also taking action, considering restrictions on Chinese components in hydrogen-related projects to protect its domestic industry… (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
https://www.reccessary.com/en/news/china-surges-ahead-in-green-hydrogen-innovation-patents
Multi-party effort to accelerate hydrogen adoption in Japan
On 6 June 2025, a strategic partnership was established in Tokyo between JPNH₂YDRO, BeHydro, DAIHATSU INFINEARTH, and Mizuno Marine to introduce hydrogen-powered marine engines in Japan.
This collaboration focuses on deploying BeHydro’s dual fuel and 100% hydrogen engines in Japanese ports and coastal areas to support the country’s zero-emission shipping goals. The engines, already in use in Europe, will be adapted to meet Japanese standards with local testing and service support.
As part of the initiative, two V12 dual fuel hydrogen engines will be installed on a tugboat under construction at Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, scheduled for delivery in July 2025. Additionally, three inline 6-cylinder 100% hydrogen engines will power a zero-emission vessel planned by JPNH₂YDRO. The project is supported by the Nippon Foundation Zero Emission Ships Project.… (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
https://safety4sea.com/multi-party-effort-to-accelerate-hydrogen-adoption-in-japan
Japan Backs Hydrogen-Powered Commercial Vehicles with Major Subsidies
Japan shifts from funding hydrogen stations to offering new incentives for hydrogen-powered transport operators.
To promote hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCV) adoption, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is introducing new subsidies focused on reducing hydrogen fuel costs, particularly for commercial trucks and buses. The initiative targets six high-demand regions: Tokyo, Kanagawa, Fukushima, Aichi, Hyogo, and Fukuoka.
These areas were selected for their strong local demand and willingness of local governments to support hydrogen vehicle deployment. For instance, Aichi aims to have 7,000 hydrogen-powered trucks and buses in operation by 2030.
Unlike previous strategies that emphasized vehicle purchase incentives and hydrogen station construction, this new approach prioritizes operational cost reduction. METI plans to subsidize hydrogen fuel at 90 refueling stations, aiming to close the price gap between hydrogen and diesel. The subsidy could cover up to three-quarters of the fuel price difference—about ¥700 (USD $4.83) per kilogram—saving roughly ¥21,000 (USD $144) per refueling for large trucks.
Fuel cell vehicles are particularly well-suited for long-distance transportation due to their fast refueling times and longer range (up to 600 km), compared to battery-electric vehicles.
Major automakers like Toyota, Isuzu, and Hino are developing FCVs, while logistics companies such as Yamato Transport and Japan Post have already integrated them into their fleets. Currently, Japan has about 160 commercial hydrogen vehicles, but the government aims to expand this number to over 17,000 by 2030 to support its decarbonization goals.
Despite global challenges and rising costs in hydrogen production, Japan remains committed to hydrogen as a key clean energy source. At a recent forum in Singapore, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation’s Chief Sustainability Officer reaffirmed Japan’s long-term commitment to hydrogen, expressing optimism about future cost reductions… (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
First offshore hydrogen-ammonia-methanol platform begins trial operation
The first offshore platform for the integrated production of green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol has been constructed in Yantai, China, and is set to commence the trial operation, state-owned energy enterprise China Energy Investment Corporation revealed.
China has unveiled its first comprehensive offshore platform for the production, storage, transportation, and use of clean fuels such as hydrogen, methanol, and ammonia. The project is a collaboration between China Energy, CIMC Raffles, and Guoneng Hydrogen Innovation Technology and is being hailed as the world’s first of its kind.
The semi-submersible platform stands over 50 meters tall and weighs more than 20,000 tons. It is powered by photovoltaic (solar) systems and features electrochemical energy storage, allowing it to operate independently. The platform includes three hydrogen production units using both seawater and freshwater electrolysis, supported by a desalination system that generates five tons of freshwater daily.
To overcome challenges related to hydrogen storage and transport, the platform converts hydrogen into methanol and ammonia—both of which can be used as clean marine fuels and valuable industrial chemicals.
Construction of the project began in September 2024, and the design passed review by the China Classification Society (CCS) in January 2025. China Energy emphasized that the project sets a technical benchmark for offshore hydrogen production and helps establish critical industry standards and regulations … (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
China tests non-nuclear hydrogen bomb, research says
Chinese researchers have successfully conducted a controlled field test of a non-nuclear, hydrogen-based explosive device, unleashing powerful chemical chain reactions, the South China Morning Post reported Sunday.
According to a recent study, the 2kg (4.4lbs) hydrogen-based bomb generated a fireball exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius (1,832 degrees Fahrenheit) and sustained it for more than two seconds. The blast lasted 15 times longer than a comparable TNT explosion and was conducted without the use of any nuclear material.
The device was developed by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation, a key player in underwater weapons development. It uses a magnesium-based solid-state hydrogen storage material to achieve its explosive effect.
Triggered by conventional explosives, the material underwent rapid thermal decomposition, releasing hydrogen gas that ignited into a prolonged, high-temperature fireball, according to the study published in the Chinese-language Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance.
“Hydrogen gas explosions ignite with minimal ignition energy, have a broad explosion range, and unleash flames that race outward rapidly while spreading widely,” the study said.
“This combination allows precise control over blast intensity, easily achieving uniform destruction of targets across vast areas.”
The research noted that the hydrogen bomb can cause extended thermal damage due to its white-hot fireball, capable of melting aluminum alloys. By comparison, TNT explosions typically produce a flash that lasts only about 0.12 seconds.… (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/china-tests-non-nuclear-hydrogen-bomb-research-says/3543648
India Rolls Out Most Powerful Hydrogen Train in Trials
India has launched trial runs of its first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, marking a major milestone in its green transportation ambitions. The train, developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, features a record-breaking 1,200-horsepower engine—double that of European hydrogen trains—and can carry up to 2,638 passengers at speeds of up to 110 km/h.
Despite early success, technical adjustments are needed to optimize the hydrogen fuel cell’s load-bearing capacity. These issues may delay full commercial deployment, especially on the Kalka-Shimla heritage route, until mid-2025 instead of the original December 2024 target.
Part of India’s “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative, the project combines green innovation with cultural tourism. The government has allocated ₹2,800 crore $72 million) for building related infrastructure. A total of 35 hydrogen-powered trains are planned, including an 8-coach unit that would be the world’s longest hydrogen passenger train.
These trains are intended for use in hilly and heritage regions where electrification is difficult, helping reduce diesel dependency and emissions. The initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 and showcases its commitment to embedding clean energy into national infrastructure.
Once operational, the hydrogen trains are expected to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions and modernize India’s rail network in an environmentally sustainable way .… (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
Green Hydrogen Projects Gain Momentum Across Europe, USA, and India
Hydrogen is rapidly evolving from a futuristic idea into a practical energy solution, with significant progress across Germany, France, the U.S., and India. In Germany, Tyczka Hydrogen has received CertifHy RFNBO certification, validating that its hydrogen meets the European Union’s strict renewable standards. This certification strengthens trust in green hydrogen and facilitates cross-border trade in clean energy. In France, the government has approved €149 million in funding for a new green hydrogen plant in Forbach, aiming to revitalize an industrial region and support the country’s net-zero targets by utilizing its nuclear-powered grid for low-carbon hydrogen production.
Meanwhile, in the United States, Plug Power and Olin Corporation have inaugurated a hydrogen liquefaction plant, helping to build a complete supply chain for delivering liquid hydrogen to sectors like transportation and off-grid energy. This project signals a move from pilot projects to real-world deployment. In India, BHEL and BARC have joined forces to develop advanced electrolysis technology, particularly alkaline water electrolysis, to produce affordable, domestically made hydrogen systems. This collaboration plays a crucial role in India’s ambitions to lead in green hydrogen technology on a global scale.
CertifHy certification is becoming a cornerstone of the hydrogen industry by providing transparent, verifiable proof of hydrogen’s renewable origin. This boosts buyer confidence, enables international trade, and unlocks government incentives. Despite ongoing challenges such as high costs and complex permitting, these developments reflect a clear shift from policy discussions to practical implementation. With expanding infrastructure, certification systems, and industrial partnerships, hydrogen is steadily becoming a critical part of the global clean energy transition… (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
Jeju Leads South Korea’s Green Hydrogen Push with First Commercial Station
Jeju Island in South Korea is taking significant steps toward becoming a green hydrogen leader by opening the country’s first commercial green hydrogen refueling station and production facility. With support from both the central government and private sector, the island already operates a 3.3 MW facility that produces 600 kg of green hydrogen daily and includes a 2 MWh battery storage system. The local government aims to expand production capacity to 30 MW by 2030.
Jeju currently generates about 20% of its electricity from renewable sources, the highest in South Korea. However, excess wind and solar energy often exceeds grid capacity, leading to temporary shutdowns. To address this, the government is investing in hydrogen as an energy storage and balancing solution. By converting surplus electricity into green hydrogen, Jeju can store energy for periods of high demand, especially in the evenings when power use spikes due to tourism and residential needs.
To encourage adoption, Jeju offers subsidies covering up to 50% of hydrogen vehicle costs. In 2024, it opened its first hydrogen fueling station, offering hydrogen at around $10 per kilogram—cheaper than gasoline in some cases, but still more expensive than EV charging. Although current green hydrogen production costs exceed retail prices, officials are committed to building a full hydrogen ecosystem and positioning Jeju as a global hydrogen hub.
Experts like Thomas Koller from DNV believe green hydrogen will become more economically competitive as technologies mature and scale up. In times of energy oversupply, green hydrogen offers an efficient and sustainable way to store and use renewable electricity, supporting Jeju’s broader clean energy goals … (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).
The Hydrogen Stream: Hyundai Motor plans fuel cell plant in South Korea
Hyundai Motor says it plans to build its first hydrogen fuel cell systems plant in South Korea by 2028, pending union consultations, expanding beyond its existing facility in China.
Hyundai Motor plans to build its first hydrogen fuel cell systems plant in South Korea, the company’s labor union claimed Tuesday, as reported by the country’s news agency Yonhap. According to the report, operations should start in 2028. “To push ahead with the plan, there should be consultations between the company and the union,” a spokesperson reportedly said. The South Korean company operates a hydrogen fuel cell systems plant in China.
Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence said that the hydrogen fuel cell vehicle market should grow at a CAGR of 19.78% between 2025 and 2030 to reach $20,495 billion by 2030. “In January 2024, Stellantis Pro expanded its existing hydrogen fuel cell offer with in-house production starting on mid-size and large vans in Europe,” said the Indian data company, mentioning investments from Tata Motors, Hyundai, and Toyota.
The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, a €400 million ($366,35 million) Austrian State aid scheme and a €36 million Lithuanian State aid scheme to support the production of renewable hydrogen through the European Hydrogen Bank’s “Auctions-as-a-Service“ tool for the auction closing in 2025. “The approved schemes will support the production of up to 112,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen in Austria, and 13,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen in Lithuania. The aid will be awarded through a competitive bidding process to be concluded in the first quarter of 2025,“ said the European executive body.
Fortescue Green Pioneer, the world’s first dual-fueled ammonia-powered vessel, started in London as its first stop on a global tour of ports aimed at fast-tracking international shipping’s transition to green fuels. “Fortescue Green Pioneer’s UK visit comes at a pivotal moment for the future of global shipping, with the UN International Maritime Organization considering the single most important regulatory change in shipping in a generation. Key IMO meetings in April 2025 will determine whether a global carbon levy is adopted, according to Fortescue. The metal mining company headquartered in Australia advocates for the early adoption of zero-emission fuels such as green ammonia, bypassing “transitional fuels such as biofuels and LNG.“ … (you can find the rest of the news at the address below).