This round of the initiative will focus on projects in EU Cohesion Countries and Outermost Regions, including Islands.
What is the opportunity?
Successful applicants will receive support to develop their concepts for fuel cell and hydrogen technology deployment into detailed work plans from experienced consultants and project managers from across Europe. All applicants will be invited to join an observer network to follow the results of the initiative.
How do I apply?
The Stage 1 Expression of Interest form must be completed through the website: http://www.h2regions.eu
A webinar will be hosted on 15 September 2022 at 14:30-16:00 (CEST) to provide:
- Instructions on how to apply for Project Development Assistance
- Examples of projects from the previous Project Development Assistance programme
- Answer questions on the initiative and the application process.
Supporting information and guidance for completing the application forms can also be found on the website above..
Who is eligible?
Applicants must be local authorities within either:
• EU Cohesion Countries
• EU Outermost Regions
• Islands within EU Member States or Associated Countries.
When is the deadline?
Applications to Stage 1 of the ‘Expression of Interest’ process may be submitted via the website. The deadline for Stage 1 applications is 10 October 2022 at 23:59:59 pm (CEST).
When will I hear back and what happens next?
Regions that have successfully been shortlisted after Stage 1 of the application process will be notified by 25 October 2022. Shortlisted regions will then be invited to apply for Stage 2, for which applications will need to be submitted by 25 November 2022.
Successful regions will be notified in December 2022, with Project Development Assistance due to commence in January 2023, and continue for 12 months.
Background information
The Clean Hydrogen Partnership has previously supported the success of hydrogen projects at the regional or city level. Local governments have in many cases been able to secure significant investment in fuel cell and hydrogen projects, and deploy technology faster than would be possible on a national scale or for a private company to do alone.
Local authorities often need additional experience or expertise in advancing such projects towards real deployment, and therefore would benefit from expert support. The Clean Hydrogen Partnership has previously launched a “Project Development Assistance for Regions” initiative, to directly provide this required support and succeded to support eleven regions across Europe in the development of their hydrogen projects in 2020 and 2021.
Regions (or a group of regions) with an existing clean hydrogen project concept, but limited experience in advancing such projects, are invited to apply to receive support. The main source of hydrogen for the project concept must be either hydrogen produced using renewable electricity or bio-feedstocks.
We encourage you to share this initiative with others who may be interested in receiving Project Development Assistance.
