4 June 2024

The European Commission has initiated work on a pilot mechanism to support the hydrogen market, as part of the recently adopted decarbonized gases and hydrogen package. This mechanism aims to enhance investment clarity by providing detailed market data and facilitating connections between off-takers and suppliers of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen.

Objectives and Function of the Hydrogen Market

  1. Market Transparency: The pilot mechanism will gather and disseminate information on hydrogen demand, supply, flows, and prices, allowing European and foreign suppliers to connect with off-takers.
  2. Accelerating Investments: Improved visibility of market conditions will facilitate final investment decisions and secure off-take agreements.
  3. Green Deal Goals: Hydrogen is crucial for the EU’s Green Deal targets, reducing reliance on Russian fossil fuels, and promoting industrial decarbonization and competitiveness.

Implementation Plan of the Hydrogen Market

A procurement process is underway to develop an IT platform for the mechanism, with operations expected to begin by mid-2025. The next step are to large-scale electrolysers are under construction in Europe, and initial off-take agreements have been signed.

Regulatory Framework

The EU has established a comprehensive framework to support the hydrogen market, including the Decarbonized Gases and Hydrogen package, and revisions to the Renewable Energy Directive. These frameworks set market rules and targets for renewable hydrogen, ensuring legal certainty and visibility for investors.

Supporting Infrastructure

The EU has listed several hydrogen corridors and projects in the revised TEN-E Regulation, supporting infrastructure development. Additionally, the European Hydrogen Bank has facilitated significant investments in hydrogen projects, with plans for further auctions and international cooperation.

Investment and Industry Impact

  • Current Projects: There are 254 renewable hydrogen projects in the EU, with significant investments in production, fuel switching, and infrastructure.
  • Funding and Support: The Commission has approved €18.9 billion in State aid for four IPCEIs in the hydrogen value chain, expected to unlock €27 billion in private investments.
  • Hydrogen Valleys: The Hydrogen Valleys Innovation Mission supports integrated hydrogen projects globally, with over 100 valleys worldwide, including more than 50 in Europe.

The pilot mechanism is part of the EU’s strategic efforts to establish a robust hydrogen market, crucial for achieving sustainability goals and enhancing industrial competitiveness.

FI Group has been promoting innovation for 20 years, helping from startups to large corporations in the financing of R&D&I at a global level. We advise companies on the management of their R&D&I financing, through the design and implementation of actions aimed at boosting their technological and economic development. Our eagerness to achieve excellence in all our services has led us to assume leadership in the sector, both at national and European level.

Teresa Marina

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