Lower Saxony has important prerequisites for a hydrogen economy – from wind energy and extensive storage capacities to import infrastructure. A new study uses scenario analysis to show the effects that the development of a hydrogen economy would have on the economy and industry, particularly in Lower Saxony and its regions. The potential is remarkable: By 2040, cumulative value added could increase by almost €200 billion and up to 60,000 additional jobs could be created.

However, extensive conditions for success are required to realize the hydrogen scenario and overcome the economic challenges faced by companies in adapting hydrogen technology. The following have been identified as necessary for the successful establishment of a hydrogen economy in Germany and Lower Saxony:

• Expanding infrastructure
• Making hydrogen more affordable
• Creating sales markets for hydrogen
• Training and mobilizing the workforce
• Advancing import plans
• Improving time coordination

The study was funded by the Hans-Böckler-Foundation and conducted in cooperation with the DGB Lower Saxony, dem Lower Saxony Hydrogen Network (NWN), dem Network of Cooperation Centers for Universities and Trade Unions in Lower Saxony and Bremen (K-NDS) und der Lower Saxony Alliance for Sustainability (NAN).