Green Hydrogen: Producing Energy or Reproducing Colonialism?

Moderated by:

Amena Sharaf – MENAFem Movement for Economic, Development and Ecological Justice

As the world increasingly recognizes the urgent need to mitigate climate change and transition towards sustainable and just energy sources, it is imperative to analyse the implications of this transition through a holistic lens, considering its impact on social equity and environmental justice. The Global Gateway Investment package represents a new approach to financing renewable energy projects and increasing the share of hydrogen in energy mixes. However, does the Global Gateway and other financing mechanisms represent a real departure from the traditional neoliberal approach to energy financing?

The Global Gateway and other financing mechanisms like the European Investment Bank’s Green Hydrogen Fund are branded as climate financing which contribute to mitigation, but whether or not they contribute to a just energy transition remains doubtful. These financing schemes do not include technology transfer, they are driven by large European corporations and often target countries that have been colonised. They prioritise private sector and profit-making policies; which often result in increased corruption, unjust distribution and worsening of compounded vulnerabilities of marginalised communities.

The webinar aimed to deliver an overview of the status of the region in regards to green hydrogen projects and funding as well as to encourage a discussion centering feminist perspectives and anti-colonial approaches, and other factors necessary to ensure the transition process is equitable, inclusive, and reflective of the needs and values of the people it aims to serve..