How to take the next step in hydrogen business?

We help companies, municipalities, and industrial plants transition smoothly to the hydrogen economy. Clear steps create confidence when entering the hydrogen business, which opens up new business opportunities for companies.

The green hydrogen economy offers significant business opportunities for both hydrogen producers and users, as well as the entire supply chain in between. Transitioning to a hydrogen economy can provide companies with a substantial competitive advantage and may even be essential on the path to carbon neutrality.

Many companies have already recognized the potential of the hydrogen economy, but concrete next steps—such as defining their market position, finding the right partners, and adapting existing business models—still require work. Hydrogen business also demands significant investments and risk-taking, as demand for green hydrogen and its various derivatives across sectors is still evolving.

Many players need clear steps to leverage hydrogen business opportunities while identifying and minimizing potential risks.

How does the transition to hydrogen business is done?

More and more organizations are now considering their role in the hydrogen transition and how to harness their strengths for the hydrogen economy. We provide support throughout the entire development curve—from strategic choices to technical design of hydrogen plants.

We make the hydrogen transition as easy and controlled as possible, regardless of industry. For example, we help clarify:

• What would be your role in the hydrogen economy?
• How should the end product be priced?
• Is it sensible to use hydrogen directly as the main fuel or as a derivative?
• What is the value of your side streams, such as carbon dioxide?
• What kind of partner network should you start collaborating with?

1. Transition to the new gas business

Producing green hydrogen or engaging in other hydrogen-related business is new even for many experienced industrial players. The hydrogen economy means entering the global energy commodity market—a gas business with its own unique characteristics. There are many opportunities and roles available.

We help create a clear overview through preliminary studies and business potential assessments. The key is to understand which direction to take in hydrogen business and on what timeline the transition should occur. Together, we will find or refine the right role for your company in the hydrogen economy.

2. Market insights for business model development

Once your potential and role are clear, you need additional information to build a business model and support investment decisions. We provide executive-level sparring and insights based on market knowledge and experience, including hydrogen sales and distribution channels. Hydrogen and its derivatives have very different price and demand estimates across applications such as transportation and industry.

We conduct necessary market and feasibility studies, compare different concepts, help find suitable partners, organize workshops, and participate in negotiations when needed.

3. Hydrogen-related legislation

Green hydrogen is globally so new that the regulatory environment for hydrogen business is still taking shape. Understanding current legislation and anticipating future regulatory trends are particularly important in hydrogen business.

Our goal is to prepare as thoroughly as possible for where legislation is heading and how it will impact hydrogen business domestically, in Europe, and globally.

4. Technical design and implementation of hydrogen plants

Many players are already far along in developing hydrogen business. Once the investment decision is made, it’s time to procure equipment and design a new hydrogen production plant. We offer support for tenders, contract negotiations, permitting processes, and project management.

We have experience in designing and constructing hydrogen plants in collaboration with major energy companies and industrial firms. Some projects have progressed to implementation. In 2024, Finland’s first green hydrogen production plant will be completed in Harjavalta.

Explore our green hydrogen services!

Get in touch, and let’s find the best steps to develop your hydrogen business!

Risto Hyyryläinen, Energy Consultant, risto.hyyrylainen@sweco.fi

Waltteri Salmi, Senior Expert, waltteri.salmi@sweco.fi