France

Stratégie nationale pour le développement de l’hydrogène décarboné en France

This strategy is an update of an original version published in 2020. This updated strategy aims to enhance industrial autonomy, while focusing on the utilisation of the country's low-carbon electricity. The strategy sets targets for electrolysis capacity, aiming for 4.5 GW by 2030 and up to 8 GW by 2035, with plans to meet domestic hydrogen needs without relying on imports up to 2035. It emphasises the development of various electrolyser technologies, integration with nuclear power to improve efficiency, and substantial financial support for national hydrogen production. Additionally, the strategy focuses on sector-specific hydrogen use in industry, maritime, and aviation, while promoting the export of French equipment and international collaboration through technical expert positions. The development of hydrogen transport networks and storage infrastructure is also a key priority, supported by regulatory frameworks and financial mechanisms. 

PRODUCTION

The key target for production of hydrogen is 4.5 GW of electrolysis capacity installed by 2030, rising to 8 GW by 2035. The tools proposed to develop the French hydrogen production will mainly support high-capacity projects in infrastructure zones to increase demand and scale-up to profitability.

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

Hydrogen hubs in industrial zones are recognised as being crucial for developing the French hydrogen network, as this is where consumers and producer of hydrogen are located. France aims to develop 500 km of hydrogen pipelines by 2030, with a regulatory framework aligned with the EU’s 4th Gas Package. The Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) will oversee hydrogen infrastructure and market regulation. Large-scale underground storage, especially in salt caverns, will be needed in the medium term (from 2025). A national study on geological hydrogen is expected to conclude in early 2025.

CROSS-CUTTING

The strategy proposes support for pooling demand in the industry and transport sectors, through territorial hydrogen hubs. From 2035, France may begin to import hydrogen-derived products, particularly if there is an increased demand for synthetic fuels in the aviation and maritime sectors.

EDUCATION, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

To remain a leader in the field, R&D efforts in the hydrogen sector will be supported. The country will see the creation of International Technical Expert (ETI) positions dedicated to hydrogen within government ministries over the next three years. These positions aim to share knowledge with third countries to support their decarbonisation efforts. This initiative underscores France's commitment to global collaboration and the dissemination of expertise in hydrogen technology and decarbonisation strategies. Additionally, the strategy emphasises the importance of education and training to develop a skilled workforce capable of advancing hydrogen technology and supporting the growing hydrogen industry.

END-USES

Transport

France's updated hydrogen strategy places a strong emphasis on the role of hydrogen in decarbonising the transport sector, with a particular focus on aviation and maritime. Demand across these transport sectors is estimated to bey between 0.15 and 0.18 Mt/ yr by 2030. By the year 2030, France aims to produce its initial volumes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which will bolster energy sovereignty and build national expertise in this crucial area. Regulatory support is expected to be the main driver behind the growth of SAF production. In the maritime sector, hydrogen-derived fuels such as e-methanol, methane, and ammonia are considered essential for reducing emissions from shipping. The demand for these electro-fuels in maritime transport is projected to be substantial by the year 2050. While electrification is the preferred method for decarbonising road transport, hydrogen is anticipated to play a significant role in heavy-duty vehicles, as well as in aviation and maritime sectors.

Industry

The role of hydrogen in decarbonising the industrial sector, particularly in chemical refineries, steel production, and the chemical industry is emphasised. Refineries will use renewable and low-carbon hydrogen, supported by the TIRUERT tax mechanism. The steel industry will be decarbonised through thermochemical and electrolytic hydrogen. The chemical sector aims to produce methanol domestically to reduce imports. By 2030, these sectors will significantly contribute to France's goal of achieving carbon-free hydrogen usage across various industries. Demand by 2030 is estimated to be between 0.05-0.19 Mt/yr for steel, fertilisers & chemical and between 0.12 to 0.15 Mt/yr for refineries.

Manufacturing

France aims to become a key player across the entire electrolyser manufacturing value chain, including components like PGMs for PEM technologies. The government is placing a strong emphasis on exporting French-made electrolysers and will mobilise €100 million in subsidies to support this effort. The French state is currently providing €600 million in funding for 5 electrolyser plants through IPCEI.