January 31, 2023
Hydrogen: A Catalyst for Decarbonization!
An in-depth look with Bénédicte Amiel, Director of Hydrogen Development at Equans France
As hydrogen industry players gather in Paris for the Hyvolution trade show, Equans, a global leader in the energy and services sector, reaffirms its ambitions for this virtuous and promising energy source to address the climate challenge. The increase in hydrogen’s share of industrial energy consumption from 5% to 30% by 2023 underscores the strength of this trajectory.
Why is hydrogen the energy of the future?
Because it is poised to play a key role in the decarbonization of industry and our economy. While the market and the sector are currently experiencing rapid growth, it is essential to continue moving forward methodically to support stakeholders—including local governments and manufacturers—by helping them ask the right questions. It is precisely the analysis of processes and applications that makes it possible to chart a decarbonization path enabled by the use of hydrogen. It is therefore not just a matter of discussing energy, but also its use as an “energy carrier,” since, once produced, it can be stored, transported, and used at a later date as part of a long-term strategy.
To ensure the design, construction, and maintenance of hydrogen production and distribution facilities, it is necessary to draw on a range of expertise that continues to evolve every day. Predictive maintenance and the possibilities offered by digital solutions are helping to accelerate the use of hydrogen in industry, public infrastructure, and mobility... This growth requires rapid responses to additional considerations such as fire protection, safety measures to prevent leaks from electrolyzers, and cybersecurity to protect the data essential for real-time monitoring of facilities and their operations.
Drawing on its experience and expertise, Equans is now able to support local governments and industrial companies through every stage of the process: from design to maintenance, including piping, electrical systems, and—in the future, thanks to the Bouygues Group’s expertise—civil engineering.
How can we accelerate our progress despite significant constraints?
While we at Equans believe that hydrogen is a key driver of decarbonization, we are aware of the challenges related to the availability of the primary resources needed for production. Securing a reliable electricity supply at acceptable costs is fundamental. And despite reasonable water consumption, it is essential to take this factor into account, particularly in areas facing water stress such as the south of France.
The hydrogen sector is gradually taking shape. It requires stable regulatory and standards frameworks to support its development.
Finally, all stakeholders must come together to address the challenges of employment and skills development. Engineering schools and training centers are already developing curricula tailored to the specific requirements of the hydrogen sector, particularly in the areas of safety and chemistry. Having well-trained employees to fill all positions is key to the sector’s growth.
Should the industry's goals be raised?
The traditional markets are refining, as well as the production of ammonia and fertilizers. We are beginning to see the possibilities offered by hydrogen in the chemical industry and e-fuels: e-kerosene and e-methanol. Applications in the aviation and maritime sectors are also expected to drive a market in which Equans is already active, particularly in the operational readiness and maintenance of civilian and military vessels.
Working alongside local governments to optimize their energy performance and to design and implement sustainable mobility solutions, we are supporting the development of hydrogen for buses, dump trucks, and rail transport. The development of hydrogen-powered regional trains confirms this positive trajectory.
Our ambitions also extend beyond France’s borders. We have the capacity to work in numerous countries to develop synergies through a shared vision and a proven methodology. The coming years will be crucial for integrating hydrogen’s full potential into the decarbonization strategy and successfully achieving the triple transition—energy, industrial, and digital. Equans is ready to make this ambition a reality.
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