30 June 2026
Hydrogen and hydrogen-based products are regarded as important building blocks for a greenhouse gas-neutral energy system. Forschungszentrum Jülich contributes extensive expertise to this strategically important field of energy research - from the development of new technologies to the analysis of future energy systems. This expertise has now also been incorporated into the latest Global Hydrogen Review 2026 published by the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Several large cylindrical tanks are connected by a network of pipes, surrounded by trees and solar panels. (Mistral: Mistral Medium 3.5, 2026-06-30)
Scientists from the Institute of Climate and Energy Systems - Jülich Systems Analysis (ICE-2) at Forschungszentrum Jülich contributed their analyses to the latest report. Together with the Jülich Systems Analysis team, group leader Christoph Winkler and research associate Maximilian Stargardt investigated the costs and system configurations under which renewable hydrogen could be produced in the future. Their findings were incorporated into assessments of hydrogen, green ammonia, and synthetic fuels, among other topics.
The Global Hydrogen Review is published annually and brings together international developments in the field of hydrogen and hydrogen-based products. It provides an overview of production and demand, infrastructure, trade, investment, innovation, and policy frameworks. The report is therefore considered an important basis for decision-making in politics, industry, and the energy sector.
The International Energy Agency, headquartered in Paris, is an autonomous organisation within the framework of the OECD, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. It supports governments and other stakeholders with analyses, data, and policy recommendations on energy supply, energy security, and the energy transition.
Hydrogen research is firmly established at Forschungszentrum Jülich. Jülich Systems Analysis investigates technologies, infrastructures, resources, and transformation pathways for future energy systems. Based on scientific models and data, it supports the assessment of possible development pathways for energy supply, climate action, and industrial transformation.
The contributions to the Global Hydrogen Review build on a longer-term collaboration with the IEA. Christoph Winkler had previously supported the organisation as an analyst and modeller in the field of hydrogen and alternative fuels during a stay of almost one year in Paris.
The scientists also presented their work at the World Hydrogen Energy Conference 2026 in Singapore. The international conference took place from 22 to 26 June.
