Italy’s ambitious “Hydrogen Valleys” project, aimed at transforming the decommissioned Vallegrande coal power plant into a hydrogen hub, stands at a pivotal juncture. Enel Produzione, the energy giant leading the initiative, is yet to formally accept a substantial 13.72 million euro loan offered by the Liguria Region for the project. This hesitance by Enel has raised concerns about the future of the hydrogen venture.
The ‘Hydrogen Valleys’ project was conceived as a landmark endeavor to repurpose the Vallegrande coal power plant into a hub for hydrogen production and related technologies. It represents a significant stride toward sustainable energy solutions and the decarbonization of energy production in Italy.
The hesitation by Enel Produzione, Italy’s largest power company, to accept the 13.72 million euro loan poses serious questions about the project’s future. According to Liguria Region’s Energy Service, Enel has a strict deadline of 48 hours to confirm their acceptance. Failure to do so could lead to the revocation of the financing and the exclusion of Enel from the project.
This uncertainty is intensified by ongoing legal challenges. A reminder has been sent to the Regional Administrative Court against both Enel and the Region, initiated by some companies that participated in the tender. The final hearing for this legal dispute is scheduled for April, further adding to the project’s complexity.
The Hydrogen Valleys project secured substantial financial support through a regional tender process, managed in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment. Enel Produzione, along with its ‘Hydrogen Valleys’ proposal, was awarded almost all of the available funds, totaling 14 million euros. The Liguria Region issued a decree obligating participating companies to formally accept the contribution, with a deadline of thirty days.
As the deadline of October 28, 2023, approaches, Enel’s delay in accepting the contribution has raised questions about the future of the Hydrogen Valleys project. In the event of silence from Enel, the funding is at risk of being revoked, potentially paving the way for other beneficiaries.
In recent weeks, Enel’s leadership had indicated the need to evaluate the project’s continuation or potential abandonment. This hesitation is mirrored in their actions, with a similar project in Calabria, Italy, being abandoned in recent months.
The fate of the ‘Hydrogen Valleys’ project has become symbolic of Italy’s determination to embrace green and sustainable energy solutions. As the 48-hour deadline looms, Enel faces a critical decision that will significantly impact Italy’s renewable energy journey.
