In order to achieve the decarbonisation targets set by the Paris agreements, a real energy transition must be carried out. The problem of integration of renewable sources within the energy system, to date, remains unresolved especially for those sectors difficult to electrify (so-called hard to abate) such as, for example, the heavy transport sector. This is why hydrogen can be the molecule that will help us to win this challenge, contributing to solve the triple paradox of energy: clean, safe and competitive energy. Institutional estimates show that by 2030 about 28% of consumption will be enabled by this vector.
In fact, it is now recognized that hydrogen is an enabling factor for the transition to a carbon-free economy thanks to its distinctive features (able to disprove the most common criticisms), now attentively considered by all the most advanced countries in the world, which have already defined a national strategy for its development.
In the heavy transport sector, hydrogen is a real "game changer" representing a safe, reliable and competitive key to decarbonisation. In addition, hydrogen can be a key to industrial reconversion on which to focus for the competitiveness of the European automotive industry, called to face the slow, inexorable, banning of traditional engines.
If it undertakes this path, Italy will be able to consolidate an industrial chain associated with the development of hydrogen with important spin-offs between 64 and 111 billion euros of production value to 2050 between direct, indirect and induced effects if it will be impressed a decisive accelerator on this side.
In order to seize these important environmental and industrial opportunities, the development of hydrogen and its industrial chain must be supported by a clear strategic vision and a medium to long term roadmap of action involving institutions and companies.