China Launches National Hydrogen Energy Pilot Program to Accelerate Clean Energy Transition
ISSUING AUTHORITY:
National Energy Administration
DATE OF ISSUANCE:
June 4, 2025
On June 4, China’s National Energy Administration issued a notice, the Notice Organizing and Conducting Pilot Work on Hydrogen Energy in the Energy Sector (the “Notice”), which is a comprehensive pilot program for hydrogen energy development in the energy sector.
The Notice introduces a dual-track approach through project pilots and regional pilots. Project Pilots focus on applying advanced hydrogen technologies and validating standards through replicable, efficient, and low-carbon projects with clear business models. Project Pilots are submitted by project owners and should be ready for implementation. Regional Pilots aim to build cross-sector coordination and sustainable value mechanisms for hydrogen development across up to three cities. Led by a designated city, those pilots support integrated planning, infrastructure, and policy alignment across the hydrogen supply chain.
The Notice represents a milestone transition for China's hydrogen industry, moving from subsidy-dependent demonstrations to market-driven commercial applications. It positions China to seize opportunities in the global hydrogen energy competition and contributes to China’s carbon neutrality goals and clean energy system transformation.
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