HyEfRe’s Hydrogen Potential Model: a tool for smarter energy planning

Date: 27.05.2025
By: HyEfRe
To help regions unlock the hydrogen potential, a new planning tool—the Hydrogen Potential Model—is under development, designed to assess and optimize hydrogen production and use based on local renewable energy resources. The model is being developed by a HyEfRe partner Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar (EIHP) as part of a broader effort to support regional hydrogen strategies. 

One of the model’s most critical features will be a scenario editor. This function will allow users to create and compare different planning scenarios tailored to regional data. Version 1 of the tool will also be connected with an optimization engine, ensuring smooth interaction between the interface and core functions.

To validate the model in real-world conditions, it will be piloted in three regions: the Šaleška region in Slovenia, the Mazovia region in Poland, and the City of Pécs in Hungary. In these pilot areas, the Hydrogen Potential Model will be used to analyze both current and future hydrogen potential. Real data on renewable energy production and demand will feed into the model, helping local teams evaluate practical options for hydrogen development aligned with regional energy plans. The feedback gathered from the pilot regions will help the technical development team further refine and improve the model.

Beyond technical development, the model is closely connected to the creation of the local hydrogen ecosystems. It is designed not just as a planning tool, but as a transferable framework—one that can be adapted by other regions with similar energy profiles and ambitions.

As work continues, the Hydrogen Potential Model is poised to become a vital resource for energy planners. Stay tuned for more updates.