International Dimension of the Polish Hydrogen Strategy. Conditions and Potential for Future Development

Poland is the third-largest producer of hydrogen in the EU, with around 1 million tonnes generated every year. This grey hydrogen is made almost exclusively from steam methane reforming, based on fossil gas as a feedstock, and utilised primarily by the chemical and petrochemical sectors for ammonia production and for various processes in refineries, respectively. In 2021, the Polish Hydrogen Strategy (PHS) was published as the first official government strategy for low-carbon hydrogen economy development. The document presents an optimistic and ambitious approach, with a focus on domestic production and use of hydrogen in multiple sectors. However, the cost-effective generation of low-carbon hydrogen in Poland can face significant challenges, such as the relatively low availability of clean electricity, reliance on natural gas imports and limited experience with carbon capture technologies. The aspects regarding the emerging global hydrogen market are largely omitted in the PHS. This chapter analyses the possible background of this fact and the factors influencing the future Polish position in this market. Even though Poland is not likely to be a frontrunner in these developments, it is believed to become a pragmatic participant. In fact, several Polish companies, including those state-owned, have already launched some cooperative initiatives at the European level.