Hydrogen Valleys and their Importance for the Development of Innovation in Regions: An Empirical Research
Purpose: The green hydrogen innovation ecosystem in regions should include representatives of the quadruple helix – key stakeholders, government and local government administration, representatives of companies located in the region, and business environment institutions. The aim of this article is to analyse the current needs and decisions regarding the operation of hydrogen valleys in regions that are part of the innovation ecosystem, with particular emphasis on their importance in building economic potential. Design/Methodology/Approach: The concept of hydrogen valleys has recently gained in importance and is increasingly supported by regions. The development of hydrogen technologies is now becoming a priority for both EU energy policy and national policies. Therefore, it seems interesting to present key issues related to the creation and functioning of hydrogen valleys, as well as to identify the potential benefits and challenges associated with their development. These issues were the subject of a survey conducted on a sample of energy sector companies involved in the creation and implementation of hydrogen technologies in Poland. The study used statistical analysis to identify and assess the significance of the determinants of the surveyed companies' activities in relation to the functioning of hydrogen valleys. Findings: The study found that the approach to the hydrogen ecosystem, including the creation and operation of hydrogen valleys, is changing. The results indicate that hydrogen valleys are extremely important in the context of sectoral integration in the hydrogen-based economy, and through the process of entering the hydrogen technology market, they may begin to play an important role in the decarbonisation of the current energy system. This makes them one of the most important goals and challenges for the companies surveyed, which expect the development of regional H2 value chains and the integrated use of hydrogen technologies in various sectors and applications. Practical Implications: The analysis and assessment of the importance of hydrogen valleys for companies operating in the energy sector indicates that there are many benefits, but also barriers that need to be overcome in relation to the development of hydrogen valleys and the further industrialisation of the sector. It is necessary to update the approach and improve the impact of the public sector on the technological potential of companies within regional economies. Hydrogen valleys can remain key players in creating grassroots acceptance of the transition to clean energy in regions, and can also become links supporting the development of regional economies, among other things by creating new jobs and through cooperation aimed at exploiting synergies and providing products and services in regions. Originality/Value: The conclusions reached will enable new decisions to be made or existing ones to be revised in the direction of public support, which in turn should promote modern solutions stimulating the functioning and development of hydrogen valleys.