Clean Hydrogen Partnership has announced a new research call for proposals, making €113.5 million available through Horizon Europe.

The initiative aims to foster Research and Innovation (R&I) activities throughout the entire hydrogen value chain, promoting projects that contribute to the evolution of next-generation products.

Mirela Atanasiu, Executive Director a.i. of Clean Hydrogen Partnership, emphasized the importance of supporting innovative projects that can materialize the benefits of hydrogen technologies. The call invites applications from partners across all EU and associated countries, seeking solutions that bring us closer to a resilient and sustainable hydrogen economy.

Key Highlights of the Research Call:

Total Funding: A substantial €113.5 million will be allocated for R&I activities across the hydrogen value chain.
Additional Support: An extra €60 million from the RePowerEU plan budget will be utilized to support various activities, including topping up related call topics and establishing a ‘Hydrogen Valleys Facility’ to increase the number of Hydrogen Valleys across Europe.
Call Structure: The call comprises 20 topics, with a focus on Renewable Hydrogen Production, Hydrogen Storage and Distribution, Transport, Heat, and Power. Two topics specifically target Cross-cutting issues, while two are dedicated to Hydrogen Valleys.
Project Categories: The topics are organized into 11 Research and Innovation Actions (RIA), 8 Innovation Actions (IA), and 1 Coordination and Support Action (CSA). Notably, two Innovation Actions on Hydrogen Valleys are considered strategically important and are selected as flagship projects.
Application Deadline: Interested parties can submit their proposals until 17 April 2024 through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal Electronic Submission System.

The call recognizes the strategic importance of Hydrogen Valleys, reflecting a broader commitment to expanding these initiatives across Europe. The Clean Hydrogen Partnership aims to drive synergies with other European partnerships and programs, as well as collaborate with Member States and regional programs.