SAFE ENERGY RELATIONS: UNFOLDING THE PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE WITH THE ADVENT OF HYDROGEN TECHNOLOGIES

ABSTRACT

Proposals on the inclusion of hydrogen as an energy vector into the large-scale energy socio-technical system has gained considerable momentum along with the effects of the climate crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examines the conflict between various dimensions of decarbonization with hydrogen agenda within the conceptual framework of international environmental law and policies. Firstly, we carry out a general due diligence of the technical, economic, and legal aspects of the hydrogen economy particularly in Europe. Subsequently, via textual analyses of European Union's strategic documents, the incompatibility of the hydrogen risk chain with the hydrogen value chain is revealed. Finally, as one remedy to this incompatibility;the precautionary principle, its relation to science, technology and society studies, and its possible policy applications in the context of hydrogen technologies are discussed. © 2022 Proceedings of WHEC 2022 - 23rd World Hydrogen Energy Conference Bridging Continents by H2. All rights reserved.