The H2CE (Hydrogen to Clean Energy) project is making significant progress in supporting Central European regions to adopt hydrogen-based energy solutions. Running from April 2023 to March 2026, the project brings together 12 partners from seven countries—Austria, Germany, Poland, Italy, the Czech Republic, Croatia, and Slovakia—under the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE programme.
Highlights of 2025 Developments
- Innovations in Hydrogen Production:
Early 2025 marked successful trials of advanced hydrogen production technologies. These innovations aim to increase efficiency while minimizing carbon emissions—bringing clean hydrogen energy closer to widespread implementation. - Strategic Planning Tools in Use:
A February 2025 workshop in Berlin convened key stakeholders to evaluate and refine strategic tools developed within the project. These included:- An open-source energy cell model,
- A GIS-based planning framework for regional energy mapping, and
- A voucher mechanism to incentivize regional green hydrogen initiatives.
- Pilot Projects Across the Region:
The Veneto region in Italy is piloting the GIS planning tool, while Austria has launched a new Hydrogen Competence Centre in Graz to support regional capacity building and knowledge transfer. - New Project Partner and Enhanced Communication:
The Institute for Public Service Development (IPSD) joined the consortium in 2025, strengthening the project’s communication and stakeholder engagement efforts, particularly in policy alignment and regional dialogue. - Awareness and Education Activities:
A recent webinar in Zagreb, “Hydrogen – A Driver of Sustainable Change”, focused on the role of hydrogen in sustainability and regional development, supporting knowledge exchange across sectors.
Looking Ahead
- Upcoming Regional Events:
- Partner meeting in Styria, Austria (Sep 22–26)
- Participation in the 13th National Energy Summit OSE in Gdańsk, Poland (June 16–18)
- European Hydrogen Week 2025 (Brussels, Nov 18–22):
H2CE will showcase results and connect with industry leaders and policy actors.
With over 66% of the project already implemented, H2CE is laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more sustainable Central European energy landscape. The project continues to foster cross-border cooperation, develop strategic tools, and pilot innovative solutions that will serve as a model for hydrogen transition in Europe.