Hydrogen energy in BRICS-US: A whirl succeeding fuel treasure

Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere have grown rapidly (by 50% since the 1750 industrial revolution) due to natural processes, the use of fossil fuels, deforestation, and other factors. Carbon dioxide contributes to global warming, which causes climate change and extreme weather events. Because of technological advancement and use, the world's energy consumption has skyrocketed. The novelty of the study as it focuses on the present state of carbon emissions (in terms of sectors and fuel) as a result of current hydrogen production projects, applications, cost, and delivery, as well as government policy and structural changes in the BRICS-US (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and the United States) relationship throughout time. A conceptual model has been established for multi-dimensional debate for logical comparison analysis in institution-economic-technology-behavior (IETB). This paper has three main findings. First, in terms of horizontal comparison, each country has its advantages but distinct underlying driving causes. Second, in terms of vertical comparison, each country's hydrogen energy development is still in the quantitative stage, with the qualitative inflection point still to be reached. Third, in terms of a strategic goal, producing hydrogen energy benefits the energy transition from a primary mission aspect. However, studies have revealed that China is the leader in CO2 emissions, followed by the US. China is the largest producer and consumer of hydrogen (24 million tonnes). Even though the world's largest green hydrogen plant is being developed in California (United States) (11,000 kg of green hydrogen per day and 3.8 million kilograms per year). This study highlights potential future development despite existing challenges and opens doors for enlightening the core researchers for establishing programs in transition (emerging and frontier) economies to strengthen state energy, efficiency, and conservation policies.