Global Experts Gather at Beijing Forum to Promote Green Hydrogen

From October 27 to 29, 2025, the 2025 World Science and Technology Development Forum took place at the China Hall of Science and Technology in Beijing, focusing on the theme “AI for Science and Development (AI4SD).” As part of the “International Month 2025: Openness, Cooperation, Trust” organized by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the forum served as a significant platform for discussing pressing scientific issues and fostering international collaboration.

Among the highlights was a parallel forum on October 28 titled “Promoting Green Hydrogen Applications to Provide an Ideal Pathway for Deep Decarbonization in Modern Production and Life.” Co-organized by the International Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association (IHFCA) and China SAE, the event attracted over 100 experts, scholars, and corporate representatives from various countries. The forum also garnered attention online, with more than 4,000 views during the livestream.

Key Insights on Green Hydrogen Development

The opening session was led by Ms. Zou Wei, Director of the Events and Communication Department at IHFCA. A keynote address from Ms. Wang Ju, Secretary General of IHFCA and Member of the UN Council of Engineers for the Energy Transition (CEET), emphasized hydrogen energy’s critical role in combating climate change and achieving carbon neutrality. She proposed four initiatives to promote the global green hydrogen industry:

• Encouraging hydrogen industrialization through diverse application scenarios.
• Driving technological innovation.
• Exploring varied investment and financing mechanisms.
• Strengthening international cooperation to foster a shared global hydrogen ecosystem.

Additionally, Ms. Lindsay Margenau, Counselor and Senior Trade Commissioner at the Embassy of Canada to China, praised China’s advancements in green hydrogen. She highlighted Canada’s leadership in water electrolysis and hydrogen transportation, suggesting substantial potential for collaboration between the two nations in clean energy initiatives.

Technological Innovations and Future Directions

Professor Ouyang Minggao, Chairman of IHFCA and Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, offered insights into China’s progress in hydrogen technology. He noted that China’s automotive fuel cell technologies have achieved international standards, particularly in membrane electrode assemblies and catalysts. He identified fuel cell heavy-duty trucks as a critical area for future development, advocating for enhancements in range, hydrogen efficiency, and cost reduction.

Professor Ouyang further stressed the importance of supply chain innovation, suggesting new models such as hydrogen cylinder leasing and integrated hydrogen-electric refueling stations to lower overall costs. He projected that by 2035, China’s renewable energy capacity could reach 3.6 billion kilowatts, significantly decreasing green hydrogen production costs.

Mr. Wang Hao, Vice Chairman of the First Standardization Working Committee of IHFCA, detailed Sinopec’s comprehensive hydrogen strategy, including the Kuqa Green Hydrogen Project, which is the world’s largest photovoltaic-powered hydrogen production facility. He reported that in 2024, Sinopec’s hydrogen consumption had reached 4.41 million tons, representing 12% of China’s total hydrogen use.

Looking forward, Mr. Wang indicated plans to establish a hydrogen transmission network across China and to create a Hydrogen Industry Standardization Committee to streamline industry standards.

During the forum, Mr. Mikaa Blugeon-Mered, International Senior Advisor of IHFCA, discussed the significance of innovation in renewable hydrogen production technologies. He highlighted that 2023-2024 is a pivotal period for renewing global confidence in the green hydrogen sector, with China positioned as a leader in electrolyzer manufacturing.

As the discussions progressed, various panelists, including representatives from Daimler Truck China and Shanghai Hydrogen Propulsion Technology Co., Ltd., shared their insights on advancing hydrogen mobility and commercial applications.

Collaboration and Future Prospects

The forum culminated in the joint unveiling of a report by IHFCA and KPMG China titled “Research on the Application of AI Technology in the Hydrogen Energy Sector.” Mr. Li Jing, a KPMG partner, presented findings on how AI can optimize efficiency and safety throughout the hydrogen value chain.

Forum participants agreed on the essential role that green hydrogen plays in achieving deep decarbonization and propelling the global energy transition. In the future, IHFCA aims to collaborate with governments, research institutions, and industrial partners worldwide to spur technological innovation, standard harmonization, and international cooperation.

The gathering not only showcased significant advancements in hydrogen technology but also fostered dialogue essential for the sustainable development of the global hydrogen industry.