The 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) has reignited a spark in the world of clean energy, with hydrogen power stealing the spotlight. Long overshadowed by the buzz around battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen is making a comeback, and CES 2024 is its stage.

Hydrogen’s journey has been a roller coaster of highs and lows. Initially touted as a clean-energy alternative for electric vehicles, it struggled to gain traction. But this year’s CES paints a different picture, with hydrogen-powered vehicles of all shapes and sizes taking center stage.

The question on everyone’s mind: Is hydrogen power staging a comeback, or are we seeing another cycle of over-promised and under-delivered tech?

Nikola, the trucking startup, has been a fervent advocate of hydrogen power. Founded with the vision of hydrogen-fueled big rigs, Nikola faced challenges, including criminal fraud charges against its former CEO. But with a fresh start and a focus on electric trucks, Nikola is now shipping its first U.S.-built hydrogen trucks, hinting at a possible hydrogen-powered future.

Hyundai, a veteran in the automotive world, is also betting big on hydrogen. The Korean automaker, known for its long-standing work on hydrogen vehicles, envisions a carbon-neutral future with hydrogen at its core. Hyundai’s plan extends beyond passenger cars to heavy-duty vehicles like construction equipment, arguing that hydrogen is a more viable clean energy source for these larger machines.

At CES 2024, HD Hyundai, a conglomerate involved in construction, refinery, and shipping, showcased its ambition to create a global hydrogen energy ecosystem, encompassing everything from shipbuilding to construction machinery. The company is exploring innovative ways to produce clean hydrogen, including converting sewage sludge and other organic waste.

The supplier side is equally enthusiastic. Bosch is developing hydrogen fuel cells, while truck-builder PACCAR showcased its latest hydrogen-powered trucks under the Kenworth and Peterbilt brands. The interest is palpable, with PACCAR receiving significant orders for these trucks, set to ship next year.

The CES spectacle even had a touch of Vegas flair, courtesy of South Korean giant SK Group. Their exhibit blended hydrogen energy and AI into a theme park experience, complete with hydrogen-powered trains and an AI fortune teller.

But why the sudden surge in hydrogen interest? Two words: political will. The U.S. government’s investment in green hydrogen and refueling infrastructure has been a game-changer. The 2022 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law earmarked $9.5 billion for clean hydrogen initiatives, including creating green hydrogen via electrolysis. The Inflation Reduction Act further bolstered this by introducing a hydrogen production credit to offset clean hydrogen production costs.

However, challenges remain. The current hydrogen production is largely fossil fuel-based, and the infrastructure for hydrogen refueling is still in its infancy compared to the established electric grid supporting EVs.

Despite these obstacles, the potential of hydrogen can’t be ignored. It offers distinct advantages in sectors where battery-electric solutions fall short, such as heavy trucking and medium-duty vehicles. The catch is making hydrogen fuel both affordable and accessible.

As CES 2024 has shown, the interest and investment in hydrogen are growing. Companies like Nikola and Hyundai are not just outliers but pioneers in a potential clean energy revolution. Hydrogen may have had a rocky past, but its future, fueled by innovation and political support, looks brighter than ever. With continued development and investment, hydrogen could play a crucial role in our sustainable energy future.

In conclusion, CES 2024 has been a turning point for hydrogen energy, showcasing its potential in the automotive and heavy-duty vehicle sectors. While challenges remain in production and distribution, the growing interest and investment in hydrogen technology indicate a significant shift towards cleaner, sustainable energy solutions. As we move forward, hydrogen power could become a key player in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. Stay tuned for more developments in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.