Episode 16: Building the Hydrogen Economy: CEO Pierre-Etienne Franc on €2B Hy24 Fund, Air Liquide, Clean Energy - The Hydrogen Leader Podcast
Description
In this episode of The Hydrogen Leader Podcast, we sit down with Pierre-Etienne Franc, CEO and Co-Founder of Hy24, which manages the world’s €2B Hydrogen Fund.
Widely recognized as one of the most influential leaders in the global hydrogen industry, Franc shares how hydrogen, sustainability, and clean energy investments are shaping the future of the energy transition.
From his early leadership at Air Liquide to building Hy24, Franc offers unparalleled insights into the hydrogen economy, covering green hydrogen projects, hydrogen production, fuel cells, hydrogen storage, and hydrogen infrastructure.
He explains how collaboration between industrial gas suppliers, financial investors, and policymakers is essential to accelerate the shift toward decarbonization, carbon neutrality, and net zero goals.
The discussion spans Europe, the US, and China, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in scaling the hydrogen economy. From Plug Power and mobility projects to hydrogen stations, trucks, and buses, Franc shares his perspective on where the clean hydrogen market is headed, and why regulatory support and innovation are key to success.
Beyond technology and investment, Franc reflects on the societal impact of the energy transition, underlining the need for visionary leadership, sustainability-driven decisions, and timely action to ensure a cleaner and more equitable future.
He also shares advice for young professionals pursuing careers in hydrogen, pointing to the exciting opportunities in building the hydrogen economy and contributing to a global clean energy transformation.
The conversation closes with a preview of Franc’s upcoming book on sustainability, leadership, and collective action in tackling climate change.
United States
