EU's Latest Hydrogen Standards: Challenges, Industry Support, and Regulatory Framework
Key Ideas
  • The EU is facing challenges in implementing low-carbon hydrogen standards, requiring industry-specific support programs to facilitate investments in clean energy.
  • Jens Geier, a key EU lawmaker from Germany, has been instrumental in negotiating directives to establish legal frameworks for the hydrogen market.
  • Delegated acts in Brussels have historically led to delays in defining terms like 'renewable' and 'low-carbon' hydrogen, with the latest focus being on the acceptability of nuclear and carbon capture inputs.
  • Geier emphasizes the importance of developing tailored industry programs to ensure a smooth transition towards decarbonization without deindustrialization, highlighting the need for competitive conditions for European industry.
The EU is embarking on implementing new low-carbon hydrogen standards, a crucial element for achieving clean energy goals in sectors like steel, chemicals, aviation, and shipping. Jens Geier, a prominent centre-left EU lawmaker from Germany, has played a significant role in negotiating directives to provide a clear legal framework for the hydrogen market. The recent overhaul of the European gas market aims to pave the way for a structured ramp-up of hydrogen production. However, defining terms like 'low-carbon' hydrogen faces challenges, especially in determining the role of nuclear and carbon capture inputs. Geier stresses the necessity of tailored industry support programs to help businesses transition towards cleaner technologies without facing obstacles. He advocates for giving industry the time it needs to adapt to the new regulations while ensuring competitive conditions for European businesses. Geier also envisions a future where cheap green electricity could potentially attract energy-intensive industries to regions like the Algerian desert in the long term. The lawmaker's efforts extend to the European Parliament's industry committee, where he emphasizes the importance of developing industry-specific programs aligned with the Green Deal objectives. Despite facing conflicts with the European Commission over regulatory aspects like unbundling rules for hydrogen grids, Geier remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition without hampering industry growth. His positive outlook on the future of hydrogen in Europe reflects a proactive approach towards sustainable energy practices.
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