After the successful declaration of the Hydrogen Initiative signed by 25 European Energy ministers, coached by the Austrian presidency in Linz last month, Energy ministers and government officials from around 20 countries on October 23, 2018, in the first Hydrogen Energy Ministerial ever, indicated in their Tokyo Statement that they will step up cooperation in promoting the use of hydrogen as an alternative energy source by sharing technology and standards. Participants also stressed the need to jointly analyze the effectiveness of hydrogen use in reducing carbon dioxide emissions as the world grapples with climate change.

1. Collaboration on Technologies and Coordination of Harmonisation of Regulations, Codes and Standards
2. Promotion of Information Sharing and International Joint Research and Development emphasizing Hydrogen Safety and Infrastructure Supply Chain
3. Study and Evaluate Hydrogen’s potential across sectors including its potential in reducing both CO2 and other harmful emissions
4. Communication Education and Outreach

The Japan-hosted ministerial meeting was designed to coordinate global efforts to create a society where more hydrogen is used in everyday life. Industry minister Hiroshige Seko and Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency, were among the participants at the event. According to Mr. Birol  the statement is a  ‘strong signal to governments & companies across the world’ re potential role of hydrogen in  the energy transition.