Techno-economic analysis of hydrogen and green fuels supply scenarios assessing three import routes: Canada, Chile, and Algeria to Germany

This paper presents a detailed techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production and import routes to Germany, assessing the economic viability and strategic benefits of hydrogen imports from Algeria, Chile, and Canada. Utilizing the bespoke HydrogenPathway Explorer tool, which integrates economic, energy, and process engineering frameworks, the study evaluates the cost implications and logistical challenges of these routes. This analysis draws on extensive literature reviews and data from major databases and technical reports processed through a high-level interface that facilitates deep economic and energy insights. The results reveal that current hydrogen costs from Algeria are approximately 5.3 EUR/kg H2. Although initial costs for hydrogen shipped from Canada and Chile are higher (around 8.7 EUR/kg H2 and 6.5 EUR/kg H2, respectively), projections for 2030 indicate that Chilean imports could drop to about 4.8 EUR/kg H2, becoming highly competitive. By 2050, costs are expected to further decrease, with Algerian pipeline imports potentially reaching 3.4 EUR/kg H2, Canadian imports around 4.1 EUR/kg H2, and Chilean imports approximately 3 EUR/kg H2. The analysis also highlights a significant reduction in transportation costs by 2050, suggesting that liquid hydrogen may become the preferred form of energy for imports from Canada and Chile. The study underscores the importance of diversifying import sources and optimizing supply chains to enhance Germany's hydrogen strategy, contributing to global sustainable energy transitions and the attainment of climate goals.