A Centre of Excellence for renewable hydrogen production will be established in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, as part of the H2START project. The initiative aims to drive the development of innovative technology for clean hydrogen production and utilization. Collaborating entities include Trakia University, the Bulgarian Hydrogen, Fuel Cell and Energy Storage Association, Politecnico di Torino, and Italy's Nicola Giordano Institute of Advanced Technologies for Energy. With funding of EUR 15 million from the Horizon Europe Programme and national co-financing, the project seeks to advance the role of green hydrogen in the energy transformation. Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov emphasized Bulgaria's favorable conditions for competitive green hydrogen production, with potential to become a significant exporter in Europe. He also highlighted the country's infrastructure suitability for green hydrogen transportation, suggesting the Danube River as a natural route. Additionally, the Government plans to financially support centers of excellence like the one established through the H2START project as part of transitioning coal regions.