China cements status as global hydrogen leader in new industry report

China has solidified its position at the forefront of the international hydrogen energy market, according to the newly published China Hydrogen Energy Development Report (2026). Data from the National Energy Administration reveals that the country now holds more than 50 percent of global renewable hydrogen capacity, a sector that experienced significant growth throughout 2025.

Operational capacity for renewable hydrogen has more than doubled year-on-year, exceeding 250,000 metric tons, China Daily reports. This surge in production has been matched by infrastructure rollouts; as of June 2026, the country had commissioned approximately 620 hydrogen refuelling stations and over 350 kilometres of dedicated pipelines.

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The report highlights that China has become a primary “testing ground” for technological iteration in hydrogen, driven by its vast commercial scale. The widespread operation of fuel cell vehicles, such as heavy-duty lorries and public buses, has provided developers with comprehensive data, facilitating rapid system improvements and ongoing technological optimisation.

Hydrogen: looking ahead

Looking ahead, the industry is poised for a significant evolution. Officials note that the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) marks a turning point as the sector shifts from being policy-driven to market-driven. With China already controlling over half of the global manufacturing capacity for electrolysers and fuel cell systems, the country continues to serve as an incubator for both domestic firms and multinational giants seeking to leverage its supply chain, China Daily says.

This industrial momentum is exemplified by large-scale initiatives like the Envision Group’s hydrogen and ammonia project in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, which demonstrates the commercial viability of green ammonia production. 

The industry outlook remains optimistic, with projected green hydrogen demand reaching between 2.4 million and 4.3 million tons annually during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. By the close of this timeframe, the total output value of the hydrogen industrial chain is expected to surpass 1 trillion yuan (US$148.2 billion).