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International trade of green hydrogen, ammonia and methanol: Opportunities of China's subregions

Author

Listed:
  • Wan, Yanming
  • Li, Yanfei
  • Wang, Di
  • Yang, Dongxiao
  • Huang, Tuofu
  • Zhang, Yan
  • Zheng, Longye
  • Liu, Chang

Abstract

Global initiatives to reduce carbon emissions are stimulating the demand for green hydrogen, ammonia and methanol. By 2023, the total low-carbon hydrogen production capacity from announced projects worldwide is projected to reach 38 million tonnes. China is experiencing a surge in green hydrogen projects, with a growing number targeting international markets in addition to domestic demand. This study delves into a systematic modeling analysis to uncover the pivotal roles that China's subregions can play in shaping the future global trade of green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol. Utilizing a dynamic programming model, complemented by an array of supply chain models for detailed cost estimations, the study highlights the unique advantages and vast potential of subregional engagement in both domestic and international trade. Furthermore, the research explores the essential infrastructure demands and assesses the impact of renewable energy costs and policy shifts on the evolving trade landscape.

Suggested Citation

  • Wan, Yanming & Li, Yanfei & Wang, Di & Yang, Dongxiao & Huang, Tuofu & Zhang, Yan & Zheng, Longye & Liu, Chang, 2024. "International trade of green hydrogen, ammonia and methanol: Opportunities of China's subregions," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 235(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:235:y:2024:i:c:s0960148124013624
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.121294
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Jingsi Huang & Wei Li & Xiangyu Wu, 2022. "Forecasting the Hydrogen Demand in China: A System Dynamics Approach," Mathematics, MDPI, vol. 10(2), pages 1-24, January.
    5. Shaojie Song & Haiyang Lin & Peter Sherman & Xi Yang & Chris P. Nielsen & Xinyu Chen & Michael B. McElroy, 2021. "Production of hydrogen from offshore wind in China and cost-competitive supply to Japan," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-8, December.
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    1. Zhao, Chuandang & Song, Xiaoling & Yuan, Meng, 2025. "Mitigating resource mismatches-oriented optimal cross-regional green hydrogen supply strategy considering cost and risk," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 204(C).
    2. Shuang, Shuyan & Wang, Junfeng & Zhang, Junjie & Wang, Jiale & Zhang, Yadong & Li, Bin & Xu, Haojie & Zhang, Wei, 2025. "Enhanced hydrogen production from methanol decomposition using liquid-phase plasma discharge with porous electrodes," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 247(C).

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