In Episode 2 of The Hydrogen Leader podcast, Professor Markus Hölzle, an expert in hydrogen and battery technologies, shares his experiences and insights into the hydrogen economy and his roles in academia and industry. He discusses his background, having worked on three continents, and his passion for transforming ideas into products over the past 25 years. Hölzle also describes his dual roles as a professor teaching energy storage and chemistry and as the managing director of ZSW, where he oversees various administrative and operational duties.

The conversation delves into his leadership style and experiences, particularly his work on battery materials like lithium iron phosphate (LFP) at BASF, a project he led to success despite limited resources. He also reflects on his roles in the U.S. and Japan, noting the different business cultures he encountered.

Hölzle emphasizes the importance of hydrogen in achieving future energy goals, particularly in Germany, and highlights the need for a balance between electricity and molecule-based energies for sustainable development. He advocates for proactive and synchronized efforts in the hydrogen industry, stressing the need for infrastructure, generation, and consumption alignment.

He provides an optimistic outlook, citing the advancements and cost reductions in photovoltaics and batteries as indicators that similar progress can be expected in the hydrogen sector. Hölzle also underscores the significant role hydrogen will play in achieving a CO2-neutral society and the importance of engaging with politics to ensure informed decision-making for future energy infrastructures.