The qualitative study is based on three focus groups the metropolitan region Bremen. Main findings highlight flaws in the funding system, intricate approval procedures, lack of networks, and high investment and operating costs as highly important barriers to hydrogen adoption. The study underscores the crucial role of (Sub-)State authorities in the hydrogen transition.

This research adds to the existing literature by focusing on short-term barriers and exploring decision levels associated with hydrogen adoption. The analysis provides essential insights for policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders involved in advancing the hydrogen economy.

The article can be downloaded here: doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2023.113934

This article is a result of the project H2B (https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/res/research/completed-research-projects/h2b). H2B is a joint project in cooperation with the working group Resilient Energy Systems (https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/res). The project was funded by the European Union and the State of Bremen, the Senator for Climate Protection, Environment, Mobility, Urban Development and Housing, Applied Environmental Research funding program.