European Commission Approves €1.4 Billion for Hydrogen Innovation
Key Ideas
- The European Commission has approved €1.4 billion in state aid for the fourth Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) for hydrogen, named IPCEI Hy2Move.
- IPCEI Hy2Move focuses on research, innovation, and industrial introduction in the hydrogen value chain, with participation from seven EU member states and 11 companies.
- The project aims to support zero-emission mobility and transport of goods, contributing to the EU's emission reduction goals and aligning with the European Green Deal and Sustainable Mobility Strategy.
- The approval of this funding showcases ambitious cooperation at a European level and highlights the importance of hydrogen technology in achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
The European Commission has approved an additional €1.4 billion in state aid for hydrogen, marking the fourth Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) for hydrogen, known as IPCEI Hy2Move. This initiative complements three other IPCEIs focused on different aspects of the hydrogen value chain. IPCEI Hy2Move, prepared by seven member states, aims to drive research, innovation, and the initial industrial implementation of hydrogen technologies. It is expected to mobilize €3.3 billion in private investment alongside the €1.4 billion in public funds. Eleven companies, including SMEs and start-ups, from various EU states will undertake 13 projects under IPCEI Hy2Move, with the participation of companies like Airbus and BMW. The project aligns with the EU's emission reduction objectives and supports the use of hydrogen as a fuel for achieving climate neutrality by 2050. Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for 'A Europe Fit for the Digital Age,' highlighted the importance of hydrogen in enabling zero-emission mobility and transport of goods, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration at a European level. The approval of this funding underscores the significance of hydrogen technology in advancing sustainable mobility and addressing climate change.