Japan currently has one of the largest networks of hydrogen filling stations in the world, symbolizing the government's faith in the future of hydrogen and its effort to lead the world in the race to commercialization.

Japan's bet on hydrogen dates back to the oil crisis of the 1970s, when it was heavily investigated as part of a green energy initiative known as Project Sunshine, which also included solar and wind power. Since then, the government has not stopped investing in this new technology. This year, for example, the government has a budget of 70 billion yen to promote hydrogen, and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is requesting 84.8 billion yen for the next fiscal year starting in April. More than 30 billion yen goes to subsidize the purchase of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Japan sees hydrogen as important not only for reducing carbon emissions, but also in terms of energy security. Japan is heavily dependent on oil shipped from the Middle East and through the South China Sea shipping lanes. Adding to the complexity of the energy puzzle is the unofficial ban on new nuclear power plants since the Fukushima disaster in 2011.

Although Japan was the first to bet on this fuel, other countries have begun to notice its potential this year. The next few years will show whether Japan's early leadership in this technology will remain intact.

In Japan there are currently

175

gas stations with hydrogen for sale