How Knowledge about or Experience with Hydrogen Fueling Stations Improves Their Public Acceptance

Hydrogen, which is expected to be a popular type of next-generation energy, is drawing attention as a fuel option for the formation of a low-carbon society. Because hydrogen energy is different in nature from existing energy technologies, it is necessary to promote sufficient social recognition and acceptability of the technology for its widespread use. In this study, we focused on the effect of initiatives to improve awareness of hydrogen energy technology, thereby investigating the acceptability of hydrogen energy to those participating in either several hydrogen energy technology introduction events or professional seminars. According to the survey results, participants in the technology introduction events tended to have lower levels of hydrogen and hydrogen energy technology knowledge than did participants in the hydrogen-energy-related seminars, but confidence in the technology and acceptability of the installation of hydrogen stations near their own residences tended to be higher. It was suggested that knowledge about hydrogen and technology could lead to improved acceptability through improved levels of trust in the technology. On the other hand, social benefits, such as those for the environment, socioeconomics, and energy security, have little impact on individual levels of acceptance of new technology.