Hydrogen has often been called the “fuel of the future” because it can cut pollution. But a new report says progress is slowing down.

Today, almost all hydrogen comes from dirty methods using fossil fuels. Only about 1% is truly clean. The International Energy Agency (IEA) had once predicted big growth by 2030, but now it has reduced its target. Many projects in the US, Europe, and other regions have been delayed or cancelled, making the future uncertain.

The good news: China is leading the way. It makes most of the machines needed to produce clean hydrogen, and at a much cheaper cost than anywhere else. Experts believe China could make clean hydrogen as cheap as the polluting kind by the end of the decade.

At the same time, Southeast Asia is emerging as a new hub. With its fast-growing economy and busy shipping routes, the region already uses a lot of hydrogen and has 25 clean projects in the works.

The big question now: will hydrogen live up to the hype or remain a dream?