China has surpassed Japan in terms of competitiveness in hydrogen energy patents, becoming the global leader. According to a recent study cited by Nikkei News, China is consolidating its position in the zero-carbon energy sector, leveraging its technological advantages in solar and wind energy.
As reported by United News, the study conducted by Astamuse analyzed approximately 180,000 patents in the hydrogen energy sector from 2013 to 2022. This analysis covered five key areas: production, storage, transportation, supply, safety management, and application, with ratings based on factors such as feasibility and legal protection periods. China ranked first overall in patent competitiveness and maintained the top position in critical areas such as production, storage, and safety.
In comparison, during the previous statistics from 2011 to 2020, Japan held the leading position while China was in second place. Currently, China dominates the solar panel and wind power equipment markets and is using this foundation to accelerate its entry into the hydrogen energy industry. Major solar companies like Longi Green Energy and Sungrow Power are steadily establishing their presence in green hydrogen through the funds and customer networks they’ve built in the renewable energy sector.
The report highlights that, unlike Japan and Europe, which primarily focus on the application of hydrogen energy in end-use sectors like fuel cell vehicles, Chinese companies are concentrating on industrial applications in fields such as chemicals and steel.
As the cost of hydrogen production equipment decreases, domestic demand in China continues to rise. Data from the International Energy Agency indicates that in 2023, China’s hydrogen consumption reached 28 million tons, accounting for nearly one-third of global consumption, making it the largest consumer worldwide.
A report from China’s National Energy Administration previously stated that by 2024, the total production and consumption scale of hydrogen energy in China is expected to exceed 36.5 million tons, securing its position as the world leader. By the end of 2024, the cumulative production capacity of global renewable energy hydrogen production projects is projected to exceed 250,000 tons per year, with China accounting for over 50%, gradually becoming a leading nation in the development of renewable energy hydrogen production and related industries.
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