Hydrogen Policies in Major Countries: Comparative Analysis with Implications for Korean Policy

This study analyzes hydrogen policies in key countries and uses the implications carried by the analysis to formulate a strategic framework for the development of the domestic Korean hydrogen industry. A comprehensive national hydrogen strategy is crucial if Korea is to achieve a swift and effective transition to a hydrogen-based economy. The prevailing concerns surrounding climate change and environmental issues have prompted a significant shift in the global energy landscape. Consequently, numerous countries have embraced policies aimed at augmenting the proportion of renewable energy sources in order to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This pursuit of an energy transition and efforts toward carbon neutrality have emerged as central tenets of national energy and environmental agendas across the globe. Korea too is a part of this international movement toward cleaner energy and carbon neutrality, exemplified by the Korean government’s promulgation of the Energy Transition Roadmap in 2018. Hydrogen energy addresses a major shortcoming of many renewables: their intermittent nature. They hydrogen sector also contributes to the decarbonization of industries and transportation, and can stimulate economic growth as a burgeoning green sector. Recognizing the pivotal role that the hydrogen industry will play in facilitating the transition toward carbon neutrality, this study ascertains the distinctive features of domestic and international hydrogen industry policies, and proposes a suite of domestic policy strategies based on these findings specifically tailored to the Korean context.