World Hydrogen North America Conference: Navigating Regulatory Roadblocks and Political Headwinds

World Hydrogen North America 2024 took place in Houston from May 21-23 bringing together over 900 senior level clean hydrogen professionals. The six content-rich tracks covered diverse topics including hydrogen production methods, hydrogen derivatives, end-use, finance, risk, infrastructure and export markets.

The event kicked off with a popular pre-conference intelligence day, featuring an insightful session unpacking the latest developments on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), where the ongoing debate over 45V tax credits were discussed along with 45Q. There is still a lot of uncertainty for projects as they wait for further announcements from the Department of Energy, there is concern that the elections will hold up announcements even further. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in interactive group discussions under Chatham House rules, providing a platform for open and candid discussions.

While a wide range of topics were covered during the main two days of the event, one overriding theme emerged – policy and regulation. With the looming presidential elections in the USA, political uncertainty looms large over the country. During the keynote speech by Carol Browner, the potential implications of the election's outcome on the future of hydrogen were explored, highlighting the resilience of the industry regardless of the political landscape.

Some key takeaways across the main two days include:

• Simple, cost-effective regulations are needed; overly complex rules could diminish tax credit effectiveness.
• Call for global policy and certification harmonization to enable cross-border coordination.
• Community engagement, workforce development, collaboration and trust-building are critical enablers.
• Global coordination is required to unify fragmented demand and supply of low-carbon fuels like hydrogen.
• Projects need policy stability and consistency to reach FID; political uncertainty breeds delays.
• Some major projects progressing without IRA incentives, demonstrating viability. Over $46B in direct hydrogen investments planned through 2030.

Despite some stagnation in hydrogen projects this year due to increasing costs, lack of clear regulatory guidance, and difficulties defining incentives, the momentum in the industry remains strong. Attendees and speakers at World Hydrogen North America demonstrated a resolute ambition to overcome these challenges and make these projects a reality.

Save the date: 4th Annual World Hydrogen North America, March 31– April 2, 2025, Houston, Texas. www.worldhydrogennorthamerica.com