H2CE established the Network of Hydrogen-Ready Regions to sustain territorial cooperation and knowledge exchange beyond the project’s formal lifetime.
The network built on cooperation between 12 project partners from nine regions in seven countries, supported by 16 associated partners.
Purpose of the network
The network created a framework through which regions and organisations could continue to:
- exchange hydrogen strategies and planning approaches;
- share tools, experience and good practices;
- connect regional experts and stakeholders;
- identify opportunities for joint initiatives;
- support capacity building and peer learning; and
- coordinate hydrogen development across borders.
From project partnership to wider cooperation
During implementation, H2CE helped regions integrate hydrogen into energy, spatial and regional-development frameworks. It developed strategies, decision-support tools, competence-centre approaches and practical support mechanisms.
The network connected these results with a longer-term cooperation structure open to:
- project and associated partners;
- other public authorities;
- businesses and industry organisations;
- research and educational institutions;
- energy and innovation agencies; and
- organisations interested in regional hydrogen development.
Cooperation framework
A Letter of Intent allowed organisations to confirm their support for the network and their interest in continued cooperation.
The H2CE Collaboration Platform provided the network with a shared digital space for accessing project results, exchanging knowledge and connecting stakeholders.
Long-term value
The network helped preserve relationships and expertise developed during the project. It also enabled regions to continue learning from one another as hydrogen policies, markets and infrastructure evolved.
Its establishment demonstrated that sustained cooperation required both personal and institutional relationships and practical structures through which knowledge and opportunities could continue to be shared.