The transition to a hydrogen-inclusive economy will take many years and will require the support of all stakeholders involved, namely government, industry and academia. In the initial transition phase individual technologies including fuel cells are being demonstrated in pilot applications, however they are usually considered outside the complete energy system.

Remote communities and islands in particular provide the right framework in the form of a small community with its own separate energy system so that hydrogen energy technologies can be visibly and effectively integrated in the energy system. Given that the cost of energy is also higher, hydrogen energy technologies could be financially viable and could also contribute to the exploitation of renewable energy sources and energy security.

Such hydrogen island concepts have already been demonstrated in Norway (Utsira island) and Iceland. Countries like Croatia, Greece and Spain could well apply similar solutions while developing countries like Cabo Verde are following developments in view of possible applications.

The paper will present a review of such applications worldwide and will also present initiatives for stakeholders to form a forum for the exchange of experiences and the joining of forces so that islands can better compete for funds for the realization of such projects.