Harmonizing Hydrogen Colour Codes: Need for an Economic Policy Framework for a Global Hydrogen Market

This paper presents an economic policy framework designed to harmonize hydrogen colour codes for the nascent global hydrogen sector, since the current colour code systems suffer from inconsistencies, causing confusion and misinterpretation among industry stakeholders and consumers. This study seeks to contribute to the development of a transparent and well-informed hydrogen market, empowering businesses enhance competitiveness, and foster long-term sustainability through a standardized approach to labelling hydrogen based on its carbon dioxide emissions across different production pathways, i.e., hydrogen production technologies. The proposed policy framework, based on reliable qualitative data, aims to enhance the scientific underpinning in assigning colours, ensuring that hydrogen colour codes accurately reflect their environmental impact. By offering a clear and consistent classification, the proposed harmonized colour code system facilitates market access for businesses, it enables strategic decision-making, effective market positioning, and fosters consumer trust. It also supports businesses in differentiating their products based on environmental credentials.