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Summary of "Towards a Renewable Hydrogen Strategy for Mongolia"

Core Content

This report outlines the potential for Mongolia to develop a renewable hydrogen industry as part of its broader low-carbon transition. It highlights the opportunities and challenges associated with this shift, emphasizing the need for a national strategy to support the growth of hydrogen production and its integration into the economy.

Mongolia, as a signatory to the Paris Agreement, is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To do so, it must significantly reduce the carbon intensity of its industrial output. Renewable hydrogen, produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy, is identified as a key technology that can help decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors such as mining, metallurgy, and chemicals.

The report suggests that Mongolia has a strong renewable energy potential, particularly in solar and wind power in the South Gobi region. This could position the country as a competitive producer of renewable hydrogen, especially if the cost of production can be reduced to below USD 3 per kilogram. The cost is primarily driven by electrolyzers and the levelised cost of renewable electricity.

Main Points

• Renewable Hydrogen as a Key Technology: Renewable hydrogen is seen as a viable alternative to fossil fuels in certain industrial applications. It is projected that by 2050, 90% of global hydrogen production must come from renewable or low-carbon sources.

• Economic and Environmental Opportunities: Developing a renewable hydrogen industry could support Mongolia's economic diversification and industrial decarbonization. It also aligns with the country's long-term goal of export diversification.

• Challenges in the Mining Sector: The mining sector, which is a major driver of Mongolia's economy, is under pressure to decarbonize due to global trends. The country's coal exports may face challenges post-COP 28, but its copper and rare minerals reserves could benefit from the push for electrification.

• Private Sector Interest: Private sector interest in renewable hydrogen is growing, with several projects in the South Gobi region. However, domestic demand remains low, and the government must support these initiatives through policy and infrastructure development.

• Need for Government Leadership: The report underscores the importance of government leadership in developing a national hydrogen strategy. The Ministry of Economy and Development has taken the first steps, and other ministries are beginning to engage.

Key Recommendations

• Attracting Investment: The government should actively promote Mongolia as an attractive location for renewable hydrogen investment, addressing concerns about risk and ensuring a favorable investment climate.

• Aligning Innovation with Low-Carbon Outcomes: Innovation and technology adoption should be aligned with low-carbon goals. The report suggests the need for effective carbon pricing, public procurement, and R&D support to foster the use of low-carbon technologies.

• Sustainable Water Use: Given the water scarcity in certain regions and the reliance on saline aquifers, the report emphasizes the need for sustainable water management practices. It recommends exploring alternative water sources and ensuring that water use is environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable.

• Stakeholder Coordination: Establishing a national platform for stakeholder engagement is crucial. This platform should include government ministries, private sector representatives, national experts, and international partners to coordinate efforts and share knowledge.

Strategic Coordination Areas

1. Investment Mobilization: Develop a compelling case for investment in renewable hydrogen technology and infrastructure, particularly in the South Gobi region.

2. Innovation and Technology Transfer: Encourage innovation in low-carbon technologies and facilitate technology transfer to support the adoption of hydrogen in industry and transport.

3. Water Institutional Framework: Strengthen the water policy and institutional framework to ensure sustainable water use for hydrogen production.

4. National Vision and Strategy: Build a national vision and strategy for hydrogen development that integrates with broader low-carbon objectives and supports the long-term sustainability of the economy.

Conclusion

The development of a renewable hydrogen strategy is critical for Mongolia's low-carbon transition. It offers economic opportunities and environmental benefits, but requires careful policy planning, investment mobilization, and sustainable resource management. The report provides a roadmap for policymakers to navigate these challenges and leverage the potential of renewable hydrogen in supporting a more sustainable and resilient industrial sector.