Coal-mining regions in the Czech Republic have signed a “hydrogen memorandum” aimed at increasing cooperation on the development of hydrogen technologies. The Usti, Karlovy Vary, and Moravia-Silesia regions will collaborate on developing hydrogen production and storage, as well as its application to selected types of transport. The Czech Ministry of the Environment is supporting the initiative with CZK 13 billion ($607 million) from the Modernization Fund, and the development of hydrogen technologies is expected to help the country become more energy self-sufficient and meet its climate goals.

Hydrogen is seen as a promising energy source that can be sustainably generated from local sources of water and electric power. Companies in the participating regions are already equipped for hydrogen production, and universities will participate in research to further develop hydrogen technologies.

The Usti region has already prepared some projects, including hydrogen mobility in the regional capital Usti nad Labem and a plan to launch hydrogen-powered trains. The Karlovy Vary region has completed a study indicating possible areas for expansion in the use of hydrogen and is planning to introduce hydrogen as a source of energy for public transport. The Moravia-Silesia region’s governor, Ivo Vondrak, believes that hydrogen mobility will be of essential importance for the future, as the country can generate its own electric power and hydrogen, making it free and independent of Russian gas and oil.

Hydrogen has been touted as a potential solution to decarbonization in the transport sector, with fuel cell electric vehicles using hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity to power the vehicle. While hydrogen is a clean-burning fuel, its production and transport must be carefully managed to ensure it is truly sustainable. The Czech Republic’s focus on developing hydrogen technologies from local sources of water and electric power indicates a commitment to creating a sustainable hydrogen economy. The development of hydrogen technologies will also offer opportunities for innovation, research, and job creation in the participating regions.

Article by Prague Forum