Stefan Kaufmann
Chairman of TransHyDE 2.0 association
This presentation explores how binding quotas for sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) influence the decarbonization of air transport and contribute to the broader development of a global hydrogen economy. It examines the potential for cross-sectoral learning—particularly from aviation to shipping—and analyzes the effects of green fuel quotas on international production and market dynamics of SAF, green methanol, and green ammonia. Key questions include the competitiveness of producing countries, the willingness to pay from major players like Maersk, and the feasibility of organizing global supply chains. The discussion also touches on political frameworks, industry reactions, technological readiness for fuel cell aircraft, and the prospects for long-haul hydrogen-powered flights before 2045.
Panel Discussion
Future Aviation Economy
What impact do quotas for green fuels in aviation have on the ramp-up of a global hydrogen economy?
Short Bio
Dr Stefan Kaufmann served as the German Ministry of Education and Research’s Innovation Commissioner for Green Hydrogen (2020–2022), contributing to Germany’s national hydrogen strategy and advising the National Hydrogen Council. Since 2022, he has worked as a Senior Adviser on hydrogen strategy for organisations including thyssenkrupp, Horvath, Drees & Sommer, World Energy GH2, Turn2X, and the Green Hydrogen Organization. In 2025, he was elected Chair of the TransHyDE 2.0 association. A fully qualified lawyer and former member of the Bundestag (2009–2021), he returned from January 2024 to March 2025 as successor to the late Dr Wolfgang Schäuble. He previously chaired the Study Commission on Vocational Training in the Digital Work Environment and was CDU/CSU spokesperson for education, research, and technology policy.