Senior socialist EU lawmaker Jens Geier from Germany discusses the complexities of defining 'low-carbon' hydrogen standards in the EU. Geier has been instrumental in negotiating the gas and hydrogen market directive, emphasizing the need for a robust legal framework to attract investments in clean energy sectors such as steel, chemicals, aviation, and shipping. The EU's efforts to establish clear regulatory provisions for the hydrogen market have faced delays, particularly in defining 'renewable' and 'green' hydrogen. Geier's focus now lies on determining what constitutes 'low-carbon' hydrogen, balancing considerations of nuclear energy and carbon capture inputs to ensure significant CO2 savings. Geier acknowledges the challenges faced by the European Commission in creating a satisfactory definition for low-carbon hydrogen that aligns with stakeholders' interests. He emphasizes the necessity of industry-specific support programs to aid sectors in transitioning to cleaner energy sources without compromising growth. While discussing the potential of cheap renewables in Central Europe, Geier underscores the importance of offering European industries competitive conditions to thrive. He envisions a future where the development of green electricity could attract energy-intensive industries, promoting sustainability and economic growth. Overall, Geier's stance reflects a positive sentiment towards hydrogen's role in decarbonizing industries while advocating for a strategic and inclusive approach to regulatory frameworks and industry support initiatives.