CEPMLP webinar explores the physical realities and economic challenges of hydrogen

The Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy (CEPMLP) hosted its 8th webinar in its 2026 webinar/visiting speaker series, titled Hydrogen – Physical Realities and Economic Challenges, on 4th November 2026. The webinar featured by Mr Norrie Stanley, an Honorary Senior Fellow of CEPMLP, as the guest speaker.

Mr Stanley brings extensive industry experience and multidisciplinary expertise to the subject. With a background in Chemical Engineering, an MBA and a professional qualification as a Chartered Management Accountant, he has held senior executive positions at several leading energy companies, including Exxon, British Gas, BNOC, Britoil and BP.

The webinar commenced with a systematic examination of the physical and technical constraints associated with hydrogen production, storage, transportation and utilisation. Drawing on examples and case studies from the United Kingdom, European Union and Saudi Arabia, he examined hydrogen projects initiated in response to the global energy transition agenda, highlighting the factors contributing to their limited progress to date. The discussion also provided valuable insights into hydrogen production pathways, existing market demand, electrolyser technologies and fuel cell applications.

A key highlight of the webinar was Mr Stanley's detailed examination of the fundamental physical properties of hydrogen and their implications for commercial applications. Particular attention was given to hydrogen's low energy density, small molecular structure, associated safety considerations, and the complexity and high cost of its lengthy value chain.

In concluding the presentation, Mr Stanley identified areas where hydrogen offers genuine industrial and commercial value. He demystified the high expectations surrounding hydrogen's potential as a mainstream fuel and suggested that hydrogen applications would offer greater value as a feedstock rather than as a fuel.

The webinar provided a valuable perspective on the role of hydrogen in the global energy transition, emphasising the importance of aligning technological ambitions with physical realities, economic feasibility and practical industry applications.

Prepared by: Kato Obadiah Anthony, LLM International Oil and Gas Law and Policy