A transport and energy group says Ireland is missing out on millions of euro in potential EU hydrogen funding.
Hydrogen Mobility Ireland has carried out research that shows how Ireland can deploy hydrogen to create hundreds of jobs, cut carbon emissions, boost economic growth and achieve energy security in transport.
The group is calling for the development of an indigenous, all island hydrogen energy industry, but says it is lacking supporting policy and commitments on matching funding from government.
The Chair of HMI, Des Phelan, says the industry is ready to deliver.
"For this potential to be fully realised, it is imperative that the next Government prioritises the implementation of policies creating demand for hydrogen and e-fuels," he said.
"Our industry is ready to deliver, but we need the Government to match our commitment with clear policies and funding to turn these plans into reality," he added.
The research finds that phasing in hydrogen in the road, rail, aviation and maritime sectors could attract €6 billion worth of investment.
It also found it has the potential to create 650 new long term jobs and to cut carbon transport emissions by 260,000 tonnes a year.
And, according to the study, phasing in hydrogen could develop homegrown expertise for export, and opportunities for inward investment.
"Other European nations are already investing heavily in hydrogen, and Ireland must act swiftly to ensure we do not miss out on these transformative opportunities," said Mr Phelan.
Germany has allocated over €14 billion of investment in clean hydrogen, followed by the Netherlands with €10 billion, and France with €6 billion.
We need your consent to load this rte-player contentWe use rte-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content.Manage Preferences
Mr Phelan says €4 billion in funding is available from the EU in 2025, but commitment from the next government is needed to secure match funding.
The research highlights Ireland's infrastructure gap compared to neighbouring countries.
There is currently only one hydrogen refuelling station on the island of Ireland, while just 1% of all newly registered heavy-duty vehicles in Ireland are alternatively fuelled.
The three part report commissioned by HMI includes a demonstration phase, an early commercial phase and an industrialisation phase.
HMI has set out a 10 year plan (2025-2035) to commence the decarbonisation of the national fleet, including heavy duty trucks and buses, shipping and aviation.
Members say they are ready to initiate the projects required to develop a hydrogen mobility industry within Ireland.
However, HMI says this can only be achieved if the next government prioritises the implementation of EU mandates for hydrogen mobility.
They say the urgent delivery of mobility projects is required to meet policy targets and ensure Irish trading capability is not impacted.
