Sustainability dimensions of imported hydrogen

To achieve the climate neutrality target in Germany for 2045, large quantities of hydrogen will have to be imported from regions outside the EU. This report analyses the expected far-reaching and multi-layered impacts on importing countries. It focuses on the production of hydrogen based on renewable electricity (green hydrogen) and its import into the EU. Ambitious and clearly defined sustainability criteria avoid negative effects of hydrogen production abroad, provide investment security for companies and are the basis for a long-term recognition of imported hydrogen as a climate protection instrument. This report presents a first set of criteria that could help secure sustainability in the emerging international market for green hydrogen.