Low-emission hydrogen is seen as a growth area
IEA’s Menendez hopeful of hydrogen jump but warns economic case not made
The agency’s hydrogen expert says the fuel needs to account for 12–13pc of the global energy mix by 2050 to reach net zero, but hurdles remain
Hydrogen’s ability to play a crucial role in the energy mix is tied up with fossil fuels, at least in the near term. Low-emission hydrogen is seen as a growth area, but significant barriers remain. Hydrogen Economist interviewed the IEA’s top hydrogen expert, Jose Bermudez Menendez, on what needs to be done to unlock hydrogen’s massive potential and what areas of the energy world may remain off limits. How big a role is hydrogen likely to play in the global energy mix by 2030 and 2050? Estimates range from c.3pc to 20pc. How do you see it? Jose Bermudez Menendez, IEA hydrogen expert Menendez: Our vision of what is a feasible pathway to
Also in this section
4 February 2026
Europe’s largest electrolyser manufacturers are losing patience with policymakers as sluggish growth in the green hydrogen sector undermines their decision to expand production capacity
2 February 2026
As a fertiliser feedstock, it is indispensable, but ammonia’s potential as a carbon-free energy carrier is also making it central to global decarbonisation strategies
28 January 2026
The development of hydrogen’s distribution system must speed up if the industry is to stand any chance of grabbing a meaningful slice of the low-carbon energy market
14 January 2026
Continent’s governments must seize the green hydrogen opportunity by refining policies and ramping up the development of supply chains and infrastructure
