Within the H2CE project, partners jointly analysed key challenges related to hydrogen planning and governance and developed strategic approaches to support regions in becoming H2-ready. This work was grounded in a shared set of indicators, comprehensive regional analyses, and common guidelines for strategy development, ensuring a harmonised and comparable approach across participating regions. A central outcome of this process is the Transnational Strategy for H2-ready Regions, which provides a joint framework for hydrogen development across Central Europe. The strategy addresses key fields of action such as hydrogen infrastructure, standards and legislation, networking and cooperation, funding and innovation, as well as planning tools. It outlines a range of concrete measures that regions can adopt to advance hydrogen deployment. These include aligning regional infrastructure planning with transnational hydrogen corridors, systematically collecting and sharing data on hydrogen demand and production, and identifying early demand for hydrogen applications, particularly in sectors such as transport and logistics. The strategy also promotes the organisation of regional users into demand hubs and encourages interregional exchange and cooperation. All proposed measures are assessed in terms of their feasibility and expected impact and are complemented by examples of best practices to facilitate their practical implementation. In addition to the transnational perspective, the project also developed an Interregional Strategy for H2-ready Regions in Croatia, which provides a coordinated framework for hydrogen development at the national level while linking regional potentials with broader European objectives. This strategy identifies regions with the highest potential for hydrogen deployment and defines priority actions tailored to their specific characteristics. In the North-West region, the focus lies on developing hydrogen production capacities, infrastructure, and applications. In the Northern Adriatic, the strategy emphasises the utilisation of port infrastructure, renewable energy potential, and logistics capacities. Across these regions, particular attention is given to planning hydrogen use in transport, industry, and energy systems, as well as to supporting the development of hydrogen-related projects and infrastructure. The strategy is further strengthened by detailed stakeholder mapping, as well as regulatory and institutional analyses, and is complemented by a clear roadmap outlining priority activities for implementation. (Photo credit: Designed by Freepik)

Within the H2CE project, comprehensive action plans were developed to translate strategic approaches into concrete implementation measures at the regional level. Based on common H2CE guidelines, these plans combine analytical assessments, stakeholder input, and the identification of priority projects, thereby supporting the practical deployment of hydrogen solutions in different regional contexts. One of the key examples is the Hydrogen Action Plan for the Pomeranian Province in Poland, which defines priority activities and projects for the development of a regional hydrogen economy. The plan builds on an in-depth analysis of regional potential, sectoral characteristics, and extensive stakeholder consultations. It focuses on several key application areas, including industry—particularly the use of hydrogen in technological processes—transport, with an emphasis on public transport and logistics, the maritime sector and port operations, as well as energy and heating systems. The action plan outlines both short- and medium-term measures up to 2030. These include the development of hydrogen production based on renewable energy sources, especially offshore wind, the establishment of hydrogen infrastructure such as refuelling stations, and the use of ports as strategic hubs for hydrogen production, storage, and distribution. Further measures involve the integration of hydrogen into public transport systems and the development of hydrogen storage solutions, such as salt caverns, alongside broader value chains. The plan is grounded in a comprehensive stakeholder dialogue process, including workshops, consultation meetings, and surveys, and is complemented by a monitoring framework to track progress and ensure effective implementation. A second example is the Action Plan for Northwest Brandenburg in Germany, which provides a highly implementation-oriented roadmap for building a regional hydrogen economy. The plan is structured around six key fields of action, each supported by clearly defined measures. Among the central elements is the establishment of a Regional Hydrogen Coordination Office, responsible for managing projects and supporting stakeholders. In addition, the plan foresees the creation of a regional round table to coordinate infrastructure development, projects, and investments. It also includes the development of flagship infrastructure initiatives, such as the “Modular Rail” hydrogen and energy corridor. Further measures focus on activating hydrogen demand among companies, aligning supply and demand, simplifying permitting procedures, and clarifying regulatory conditions. The plan also emphasises the importance of funding mechanisms and participation models, as well as the organisation of dialogue formats, energy mapping activities, and educational initiatives. It is based on detailed regional analyses, targeted studies, and stakeholder workshops, and defines clear timelines, responsibilities, and implementation steps. (Photo credit: Designed by Freepik)

Within the H2CE project, a strategic decision-support tool was developed and tested to assist regional public authorities in planning hydrogen-based energy systems in a structured and data-driven manner. The tool combines a GIS-based platform with an advanced energy modelling approach, thereby enabling comprehensive analysis and evidence-based decision-making for regional energy planning. The solution is built on the integration of two complementary components. The first component is a GIS platform, developed and applied in the regions of Veneto and Styria, which enables detailed spatial analysis of hydrogen systems. It allows users to map hydrogen production and demand, plan infrastructure, simulate development scenarios, and assess environmental impacts. This spatial perspective supports regions in identifying suitable locations for hydrogen-related investments and understanding territorial implications. The second component is the Energy Cells Model, developed in Lübben, which focuses on the optimisation of local energy systems. It enables sector coupling, supports the integration of renewable energy sources, and provides insights into decarbonisation pathways, particularly in areas such as heating and energy system efficiency. Together, these components form a comprehensive tool that allows regions to identify optimal development pathways, simulate different scenarios, and evaluate impacts such as CO₂ reduction and energy demand. The tool was co-designed and tested in close cooperation with project partners from Styria, Veneto, and Lübben, involving a wide range of stakeholders including public authorities, energy agencies, and sectoral experts. The testing process included targeted training sessions, live demonstrations, and the systematic collection of feedback. In total, 27 stakeholders from 18 organisations participated in the validation process. The results of the testing confirmed the high relevance and usability of the tool. The GIS platform proved to be an accessible and valuable instrument for regional planning, while the Energy Cells Model delivered robust analytical insights, particularly in relation to local energy system optimisation and sector coupling. Both components demonstrated a high degree of scalability and transferability, making them applicable in diverse regional contexts. Furthermore, stakeholders expressed strong interest in integrating the tool into regional energy and climate strategies, infrastructure planning processes, as well as investment and policy development. (Photo credit: Designed by Freepik)

Within the H2CE project, a common framework for establishing regional H2 Competence Centres was developed and successfully tested with the aim of strengthening knowledge, skills, and cooperation in the field of hydrogen development. The framework is designed to support regions in systematically identifying existing capacities, detecting gaps in expertise, and creating targeted training and support structures for public authorities, industry actors, and other relevant stakeholders. At its core, the framework provides a structured and practical approach to building hydrogen-related competencies. It includes a comprehensive assessment of regional hydrogen capacities, available training offers, and key stakeholders involved in the hydrogen ecosystem. Based on this assessment, transnational competence profiles for hydrogen experts were developed, covering a broad spectrum of required skills, including technical, regulatory, economic, and communication competences. In addition, the framework supports the design of tailored training pathways and educational materials that respond to specific regional needs. A further key element is the establishment of a structured approach to stakeholder engagement and cross-border cooperation, ensuring that knowledge exchange and collaboration are embedded in the development process. Altogether, these components provide regions with a clear and applicable model for building expertise and supporting the transition towards hydrogen-based energy systems. The framework was co-designed and tested in two distinct regional contexts—Zagreb and Styria—representing different stages of hydrogen development and thus ensuring its adaptability. In Zagreb, the Competence Centre concept is being implemented as a “One-Stop Shop,” offering a comprehensive range of services, including education, consultation, networking opportunities, and access to hydrogen-related information and projects. In contrast, the testing in Styria focused on strengthening training materials, developing expert networks, and enhancing knowledge transfer mechanisms, building on the region’s already strong research and innovation capacities. The testing phase included a hybrid webinar involving 45 participants from public authorities, industry, academia, and energy organisations, as well as a series of workshops and consultations that contributed to refining the framework. The results of the testing phase clearly demonstrated the effectiveness and relevance of the framework. It supports regions in gaining a deeper understanding of their hydrogen-related capacities and needs, enables the development of targeted training and competence-building measures, and facilitates cooperation among stakeholders across sectors and regions. The framework was peer-reviewed and will be integrated into the H2CE Collaboration Platform, thereby ensuring its accessibility and transferability to other regions across Central Europe. (Photo credit: Designed by Freepik)

Within the H2CE project, a transnational collaboration network of H2-ready regions in Central Europe was successfully established with the aim of strengthening cooperation, knowledge exchange, and coordinated action in support of the hydrogen-based energy transition. The network brings together regional public authorities alongside a wide range of stakeholders from the public sector, private industry, research, and innovation communities. These actors are connected through a shared framework and formalised cooperation mechanisms, including Letters of Intent, ensuring a common commitment to advancing hydrogen-related developments. The creation of this network addresses a critical gap in the current hydrogen landscape. While technological advancements and investments in hydrogen are progressing rapidly, regional authorities often lack structured and systematic mechanisms for coordination, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. In response, the H2CE network provides a transnational cooperation framework that supports the integration of hydrogen into regional planning processes. It enables peer learning through the exchange of methodologies, tools, and strategic approaches, while also strengthening the capacity of public authorities to engage with hydrogen-related challenges. At the same time, it contributes to a better alignment of regional initiatives with overarching European climate and energy objectives. The network is built on a lean, flexible, and scalable governance model that ensures both effective strategic coordination and operational adaptability. Strategic direction is provided by a Steering Group composed of core members, primarily the project partners, who define priorities and oversee implementation. At the regional level, designated Contact Points serve as key interfaces between the transnational network and local ecosystems, facilitating communication and engagement. Participation is further broadened through a layered membership structure, which includes core members, affiliated members, and a wider group of stakeholders. This approach ensures inclusiveness and cross-sectoral involvement while maintaining clear and efficient decision-making processes. In terms of its functioning, the network adopts a digital-first collaboration model centred on the H2CE Collaboration Platform. This platform serves multiple roles: it acts as a comprehensive knowledge repository containing strategies, tools, and pilot results; it provides an environment for communication and coordination; and it offers a space for interaction, exchange, and engagement among stakeholders. Collaboration within the network is supported through a range of formats, including regular online meetings that ensure strategic alignment, ad hoc expert working groups addressing specific thematic challenges, and joint project development activities as well as pilot initiatives that directly support hydrogen deployment. The establishment of the H2CE network has already led to tangible results and impacts. It enables the coordinated development of hydrogen strategies across participating regions and facilitates the exchange of best practices and tested solutions. By promoting joint initiatives, it contributes to a more efficient use of public funding and strengthens the institutional capacity of regions to plan and implement hydrogen-related actions. Importantly, the network creates a durable cooperation structure that extends beyond the lifetime of the project, ensuring continuous knowledge exchange and supporting long-term transition pathways towards hydrogen-based energy systems in Central Europe. (Photo credit: Designed by Freepik)

Within the H2CE project, two complementary and practice-oriented solutions were jointly developed and implemented to support regions in the strategic planning and deployment of hydrogen systems. Both solutions build on the results of the pilot actions carried out in WP2 and are fully integrated into the H2CE Collaboration Platform (www.h2ce.eu), ensuring their accessibility and long-term usability. The first solution, the H2CE Handbook for strategic decision-making, serves as a practical online tool designed to guide regions in making their initial strategic choices regarding hydrogen implementation. It is grounded in the combined results of the GIS-based planning tool and the Energy Cells Model, thereby linking spatial data analysis with energy system modelling. Through this integrated approach, public authorities are enabled to gain a comprehensive understanding of regional hydrogen production and usage potential, identify infrastructure requirements and possible development pathways, and assess how hydrogen can be effectively integrated into local and regional energy systems. The handbook translates complex analytical outputs into clear, user-friendly guidance and decision-support content, thus facilitating the transition from data analysis to concrete planning processes. The second solution focuses on the establishment of Regional H2 Competence Centres, which aim to strengthen capacity building and foster knowledge exchange at the regional level. Based on a common framework developed and tested within the project, these centres provide a structured approach to mapping hydrogen-related expertise and capacities, defining competence profiles for hydrogen specialists, and delivering targeted training and capacity-building activities for public authorities and relevant stakeholders. In addition, they promote networking and cooperation among regional actors. This solution has been tested across different regional contexts, demonstrating its adaptability and effectiveness in supporting regions to build the necessary skills, institutional frameworks, and collaborative structures required for successful hydrogen deployment. Both solutions are embedded within the H2CE Collaboration Platform, which functions as a central online hub combining multiple roles. It operates as a digital handbook and knowledge repository, a space for sharing data, tools, and methodologies, and a platform facilitating training, networking, and stakeholder exchange. By integrating the solutions into this platform, the project ensures continuous access, shared ownership, and the potential for further development beyond the project’s duration, while also enabling alignment and cooperation with broader European hydrogen initiatives. (Photo credit: Designed by Freepik)