The Working Group on Hydrogen Value Chains (H2-VAL), composed of representatives from 11 NEA member countries along with a representative from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), held its inaugural meeting at NEA headquarters on 9-10 April 2024. During this meeting, participants explored a broad range of topics related to producing hydrogen with nuclear technology and discussed potential activities the group could pursue within the scope of its mandate.
H2-VAL is to provide a forum for discussion of development strategies for nuclear-based hydrogen value chains, including hydrogen production, transport, storage and distribution. It also works to assess the feasibility, market potential and competitiveness of different nuclear-hydrogen systems to produce low-carbon fuels such as ammonia, syngas (carbon monoxide and hydrogen) and synthetic fuels.
The H2-VAL aims to discuss and validate key technical and economic assumptions, as well as other considerations to inform NEA analyses on nuclear-hydrogen value chains.
The H2-VAL members meet as often as needed to carry out activities to support the Nuclear Development Committee (NDC) in meeting its objectives. Some meetings may be held virtually, at the discretion of the Chair and the NEA secretariat. All reports, publications and products of the H2-VAL will be submitted to the NDC for approval prior to release.
The H2-VAL reports to the NDC on its progress and activities on an annual basis, or as otherewise requested. The NDC may also identify and task the H2-VAL with other activities related to hydrogen value chains.
The H2-VAL mandate runs until 31 December 2026, in line with the programme of work for the NDC. The mandate of the H2-VAL is renewable subject to the agreement of the NEA Steering Committee and the NDC.
