Objective Hydrogen-based energy is a secondary energy source produced by the conversion of hydrogen as the major medium, which is of great significance for promoting the low-carbon transformation of the energy system and achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. The study of the key technologies and development status of the hydrogen-based energy industry contributes to provide forward-looking suggestions for the development of the industry.

Method This paper reviewed the key technologies and their technological maturity in the production, storage and transportation and application of green hydrogen-based fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol and sustainable aviation fuel, assessed the difficulties and development directions of hydrogen-based energy technology, and analyzed the current situation of the development of hydrogen-based energy industry in China based on the global development status.

Result The key technologies of green hydrogen-based energy continues to make breakthroughs, the localization level of core equipments continues to improve, and the scale of demonstration projects is further expanded. However, the development of hydrogen-based energy industry is still in the early stage and the technical challenges restricting production efficiency and application still exist. Scaling up and reducing costs are important directions of the industry’s development.

Conclusion To promote the development of the hydrogen-based energy industry, it is necessary to strengthen the foundation of scientific and technological innovation, focus on key areas of critical technologies research, and accelerate the localization of independent innovation products. Furthermore, it is necessary to accelerate the construction of storage and transportation infrastructure and expand downstream application scenarios, as well as gradually establish and improve the industrial policy and standard system that adapts to the development of the industry.