If we hear it often hydrogen is the solution of the future to replace cars with internal combustion engines (or even electric ones), these ambitions do not materialize. It’s true, hydrogen is quickly removing all limitations of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Full of hydrogen done in 5 minutes, autonomy easily reaches more than 600 kilometers, and hydrogen tanks weigh much less than batteries for BEVs.

In France, the only models available on the market are sedans Toyota Mirai and SUV Hyundai Nexo. Very well thought out cars, but only successful in a few pro fleets so far, particularly taxi/VTC. People are less inclined to turn to hydrogen, and this technology is still in its infancy here. But then what stuck?

Energy that has more than just advantages

It’s already hydrogen production per se, which is discussed. The method of obtaining hydrogen – very polluting – prevents the generalization of the use of this energy, since no means of producing “green hydrogen” have been found. Because we use hydrogen for production electrolysis of water. The operation that consists in the separation of hydrogen atoms from oxygen atoms present in water. An electric current is passed through the water to separate the molecule and release the hydrogen.

Here’s the problem with this process: electrolysis consumes a lot of electricity. Which comes mainly at the moment non-renewable energy sources. A shortcoming that already inhibits the ambitions of this technology. But there is also of course infrastructure that raises questions. Unlike gasoline or electric charging stations, there are hydrogen stations very expensive to build and develop slowly. We do not take into account than 31 in Franceof which some are reserved for professionals.

France, the new hydrogen champion?

Aware of this delay, The European Union wants to intensify the development of stations throughout Europe. Having decided to ban heat engines in 2035, he wants in this sense promote alternative fuels. In addition to electricity, hydrogen is one of its priorities. Project competition with the general budget 188.8 million euros was conducted with industry players. 26 of them were selected for construction 63 hydrogen stations across Europe. This is TotalEnergies which will win the largest contract with EU funding of 26 million euros.

The French group will be responsible for the development of 15 hydrogen stations in five European countries. France, Belgium, Germany, Austria and the Netherlands. The French group Hype will develop 18 stations (18 million euros of investments) in France, Belgium, Spain and Portugal. 9 additional stations will appear thanks to other selected French players. with 42 stations out of 63 requested the European Union, France specializes in hydrogen?