Hydrogen as a Futuristic Solution to Energy Poverty in Eastern Europe - Case Study of Greece

Abstract

Abstract Using Greece as a case study, this article explores the use of hydrogen as a futuristic panacea for energy poverty in Eastern Europe. The evidence from peer-review literature and the preliminary research questionnaire survey of 197 respondents from different Eastern European countries; shows that there is a futuristic prospect for hydrogen in becoming one of the innovative solutions to energy poverty. This research further explores the possible hindrances of practical affordability, reliability, and sustainability of hydrogen energy sources in ending energy poverty. The SPSS preliminary result presents 57.4% of the total 197 respondents who depict that the household income for many citizens of Eastern European countries is within the total budget of 20000-30000 Euros per annum regardless of the population within the household. The results further justify that 60.4% of the questionnaire respondents within Eastern European and Greece probably do not have a well-paying profession or careers that can enhance the affordability and accessibility of clean energy such as hydrogen. The accessibility, cost-efficiency and dependability of hydrogen as an energy solution has the potential to combat energy poverty, a situation with dire and far-reaching consequences for quality of life, health, social and economic development. The social exclusions and limitations to economic development and opportunities energy poverty causes guides the need for this study's focus on leveraging hydrogen in efforts at achieving SDG 7.