In this episode of The Hydrogen Leader podcast, we sit down with Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO of Hydrogen Europe, to discuss the evolving hydrogen industry and the global challenges shaping the hydrogen economy. From Europe’s industrial policy to the competitive pressure from China, Chatzimarkakis provides key insights into why hydrogen is a crucial enabler of green technologies.
He reflects on his journey in the industry, shares leadership lessons, and explains the necessity of moving beyond ideological debates toward actionable policies for hydrogen development. He also unveils plans for the first-ever UN Hydrogen Summit in September 2025, a milestone for global hydrogen collaboration.
Hydrogen as a Bridge Technology
Chatzimarkakis describes hydrogen as a “bridge” technology, essential for connecting different energy sectors such as electricity and gas. He highlights that Europe cannot compete in the hydrogen industry without a strategic industrial policy, given the advancements in China and the U.S. While the Net Zero Industry Act has set ambitious targets, Europe must define clear lead markets and provide incentives for investment in hydrogen infrastructure.
He argues that Europe’s neutrality stance in the clean energy race isn’t working—compared to the post-democratic tech approach of the U.S., which is heavily investing in new hydrogen technologies through tax incentives. Without a proactive strategy, Europe risks lagging behind in green hydrogen innovation.
Global Politics and the Hydrogen Economy
The conversation shifts to the geopolitical aspects of hydrogen. Chatzimarkakis discusses how Russia and China are positioning in the global decarbonization movement, impacting hydrogen investments and policy decisions worldwide.
He also sheds light on COP meetings and their effectiveness, arguing that these events often focus too much on demands rather than inspiring real action. He believes that inspiration, resilience, and leadership are more powerful than simply presenting facts—an approach he takes in promoting hydrogen’s role in climate action.
Another critical milestone he shares is his role in initiating the first UN Hydrogen Summit in September 2025, aiming to highlight hydrogen’s practical applications and secure a global commitment to its development.
Why Electric Batteries Weren’t Enough
One of the key takeaways from the discussion is why electric batteries have not succeeded in certain markets like Norway, despite being one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Chatzimarkakis explains that hydrogen is needed where batteries fall short—in heavy industries, long-haul transportation, and large-scale energy storage.
He stresses that while electric mobility has its place, hydrogen provides the missing link in achieving a fully decarbonized economy.
Future of Hydrogen in Europe
A crucial point Chatzimarkakis makes is how Europe can learn from China’s pragmatic approach. Instead of being slowed down by excessive overregulation, he believes that Europe must focus on flexible and business-friendly policies that allow hydrogen markets to grow dynamically.
He also discusses how anger and frustration can be used as a force for change, explaining that challenging times in the hydrogen industry have driven him to push harder for real solutions and policy breakthroughs.
Final Thoughts: The Road to a Global Hydrogen Economy
Jorgo Chatzimarkakis provides an insightful perspective on what Hydrogen Europe represents today and its future goals. He envisions a competitive European hydrogen sector that can stand out by:
- Encouraging investment-friendly policies
- Fostering international hydrogen collaborations
- Bridging the gap between innovation and regulation
- Promoting hydrogen’s real-world applications in industry and transportation
His message is clear: inspiration, and action must replace excessive ideology if we want hydrogen to drive the clean energy transition.
To learn more, watch the full podcast episode here. If you like the video, please also subscribe The Hydrogen Leader podcast channel to get exclusive insights in leadership, personal growth, and the hydrogen revolution. Join Dr. Björn Lüssow, as he hosts podcast interviews with CEOs, industry leaders, and innovators shaping the clean energy transition