Abstract
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of public perceptions of green hydrogen technology in Aotearoa New Zealand, marking the first study of its kind within the country. It builds on international research, which has highlighted varying levels of acceptance, knowledge gaps, and public support for green hydrogen, and contextualises these findings to the local population.
Findings show that public awareness and understanding of green hydrogen are still developing in Aotearoa New Zealand, with clear support for the technology's potential to aid in decarbonisation efforts. However, participants were cautious, they balanced support for transitioning away from fossil fuels with concerns about the efficiency and safety of green hydrogen compared to other low-carbon options, such as battery electric vehicles.
The research was conducted via a survey tool, which while non-representative, surveyed a diverse cross-section of the New Zealand population, yielding 1012 complete responses. The survey used scenario-based questions to explore green hydrogen's potential in transport, fertiliser production, and remote community energy solutions. The data collection methodology included weighting for age and gender and included both quantitative and qualitative questions, providing a well-rounded perspective on public attitudes.