- Hydrogen demand could increase fivefold by 2050, while clean production may rise to 60% by 2035, driven by significant investments and planned projects globally.
- While market potential for hydrogen is very high, there are lots of unknown variables and risks for setting up a robust and secure infrastructure.
- The insurance sector has an important role to play in the hydrogen economy, addressing risks across the supply chain, from construction and production through to the end user, and through direct investment.
While the potential of hydrogen is undoubtable, there are still challenges and headwinds to overcome. The potential size and scope of the hydrogen economy will depend on a range of factors including the evolving political, trade, and economic environment, as well as demand. Policymakers and regulators need to address costs for the development of the infrastructure, so that scaling up at a competitive level towards other energy sources is possible. Across all industries, stringent safety measures will be vital to manage hydrogen’s inherent risks. This is where the insurance industry comes into play. As hydrogen becomes integrated into the global economy, insurers can expect to see a significant increase in demand for coverage, with Allianz Commercial expecting the insurance market for hydrogen project coverage to grow to over US$3 billion in premiums by 2030.
“Insurers have a key role to play in the development of the hydrogen economy, enabling investment and innovation, and providing risk management advice and guidance. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing within this industry are essential for developing best practices and building expertise. By addressing these multi-faceted challenges, the insurance sector can support the growth of the hydrogen economy and help facilitate the transition to net-zero emissions,” says Anthony Vassallo, Global Head of Natural Resources at Allianz Commercial.
Hydrogen offers great potential in Asia Pacific, but challenges and risks remain
While it holds much promise and has been used in the chemical and refinery sectors for many decades, with risks such as fire, explosion and embrittlement being already well-known, the integration of hydrogen into other industries brings a range of challenges with currently planned mega projects requiring a scale-up of risk management. Energy production facilities will involve hydrogen storage and high-temperature combustion, which can lead to leaks and explosions. In transport, applications like hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will also face risks of hydrogen embrittlement and leaks. Port operators, bunkering facilities and fuel handlers will need to manage highly flammable and cryogenic hydrogen fuels, bringing accident and contamination risks.
“Hydrogen holds significant promise in driving the energy transition across the Asia Pacific region, and we are already seeing power generation projects being developed that are designed to run with hydrogen as a potential fuel source. Further collaboration between countries can also be expected, in areas such as storage and transportation infrastructure, that will help to accelerate the deployment of hydrogen in the region. Allianz Commercial, with its proven expertise in low-carbon and energy sectors, is dedicated to supporting clients on their sustainability journey,” adds Trent Cannings, Regional Head of Natural Resources & Construction and Head of Specialty Hub at Allianz Commercial Asia Pacific.
Risk management and mitigation are crucial for hydrogen projects
Given hydrogen’s unique properties and high combustibility, ensuring safety throughout the value chain is crucial. Analysis of hydrogen-related incidents shows that undetected leaks can easily lead to explosions; equipment design, maintenance and training can help prevent the escape of flammable hydrogen gas, while the risks of ignition can also be reduced by locating hydrogen facilities in the open. Embrittlement risks can be managed using hydrogen-compatible materials and specifically designed resistant coatings. In addition to preventing incidents, organizations can take steps to limit the extent of property damage, business interruption, and third-party liability. Buildings and facilities should be designed and constructed to withstand natural hazards, fire and explosion, and limit damage to adjacent property and equipment. Robust hydrogen leak detection and isolation systems are also paramount. Human error is also a common factor in large losses. Operational, safety, emergency procedures, and training should be frequently updated, including having robust and well-rehearsed plans in place for accidental releases.
“Given
the
wide
reach
of
the
hydrogen
value
chain
and
its
potential
uses,
the
implications
for
insurance
could
be
far-reaching,
touching
on
multiple
sectors
and
lines
of
business
over
the
next
decade.
However,
from
an
exposure
and
potential
claims
perspective,
product
lines
such
as
Energy,
Natural
Resources
and
Liability
are
likely
to
see
the
biggest
impact
from
hydrogen
risks
over
the
next
five
to
10
years,
followed
by
Property
and
Marine,”
explains
Vassallo.
https://commercial.allianz.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianz-commercial/
Hashtag: #allianzcommercial
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate