KUCHING: As Sarawak prepares to host the Hydrogen Economy Forum (H2EF) 2025 from May 13 to 14 at Hilton Kuching, global hydrogen experts are spotlighting the critical role hydrogen energy will play in Southeast Asia’s (SEA) clean energy transition.
Among the key speakers at the event is Bjørn Simonsen, Science and Technology Counsellor at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Singapore/Innovation Norway, who brings valuable insights into hydrogen’s growing role in the global energy landscape.
“What excites me about hydrogen is that it’s not just a zero-emission energy carrier; it’s integral to industrial processes like fertiliser and steel production,” said Simonsen.
“Hydrogen’s ability to be produced at scale across various regions makes it a powerful equaliser in global energy politics.”
Simonsen’s session at H2EF 2025 will underscore hydrogen’s vital role in both decarbonising industry and building a more resilient energy system.
“Hydrogen is integral to decarbonising both energy and industry, and will simultaneously create a more resilient energy system,” he explained.
Simonsen stressed the importance of focused positioning within the hydrogen value chain for governments and businesses exploring the hydrogen economy.
“Hydrogen is vast, similar to electricity. Simply aiming to lead in the hydrogen space isn’t a strategic approach.
“Stakeholders must identify where their strengths lie, whether in production, technology, infrastructure, or end-use applications,” he added.
He also addressed the opportunities and challenges within the hydrogen sector, noting the importance of timing and thorough due diligence for investors.
“The hydrogen sector is full of opportunities, but it also comes with volatility.
“While the transition is inevitable, the pace remains uncertain,” Simonsen said.
“Serious investors must look beyond glossy presentations and focus on technical viability, business fundamentals, and off-take credibility.”
For countries and regions like Sarawak, which are positioning themselves for the hydrogen economy, Simonsen highlighted the importance of leveraging local resources and infrastructure to realise hydrogen’s potential as a cornerstone of sustainable energy.
Sharing lessons from Norway’s hydrogen strategy, he emphasised the role of public-private collaboration in driving hydrogen energy development.
“Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial.
“It has been key to the success of wind, solar and battery technologies globally, and the same approach will be vital for hydrogen’s success,” he said.
