Occitanie Region Leads the Way in Renewable Hydrogen Development
Key Ideas
- Occitanie region in France is implementing a EUR 150 million renewable hydrogen development plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
- The plan aims to lead in the deployment of competitive hydrogen solutions, with a focus on production, distribution, and application, supported by a range of sectoral policies.
- The initiative involves collaborations with regional agencies, European partners, and flagship projects like the Corridor H2 for using renewable hydrogen in heavy vehicles, refrigerated transport, and regional buses.
- This strategy underscores the importance of hydrogen as an energy carrier for achieving carbon neutrality and highlights the need for public support to advance the sector.
The Occitanie region in France is taking significant strides in renewable hydrogen development to combat greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric pollution. With a dedicated budget of EUR 150 million allocated for the period 2019-2030, the region aims to boost investments totaling one billion euros for the initial rollout of hydrogen solutions in various industries. The comprehensive plan, which consists of 11 measures, emphasizes a holistic approach covering production, distribution, application, and training aspects. Embracing an integrated strategy, the initiative leverages sectoral policies related to energy transition, economic development, research, transport, and more. Key regional agencies like the Energy and Climate Agency and Economic Development Agency, along with European partners, are actively involved in driving the plan forward. Notably, the Corridor H2 European project stands out as a flagship endeavor under the plan, promoting the use of renewable hydrogen in heavy vehicles, refrigerated transport services, and regional buses. This initiative not only positions Occitanie as a frontrunner in hydrogen deployment but also underscores the pivotal role of public support in advancing the renewable energy sector.