A consortium led by the Eunice group has announced a significant investment of 11 million euros for the construction of a green hydrogen hub in Atherinolakkos, Crete.
This ambitious project, known as the Crete Aegean hydrogen valley, aims to establish a production and distribution center for green hydrogen on a commercial scale. With a target annual production of 500 tons, the project is set to revolutionize the use of hydrogen in Greece.
One of the primary challenges facing the Crete Aegean hydrogen valley project is the licensing process, as it represents the first investment of its kind in Greece. Overcoming regulatory hurdles will be crucial to ensure the successful implementation of the hub. The consortium comprises a diverse range of businesses, technological firms, and scientific bodies, working together to realize the project’s goals.
The hub’s design encompasses various applications for the produced hydrogen, including transportation, shipping, and electricity generation. The green hydrogen will be exclusively generated from renewable energy sources. Initially, a 3-megawatt photovoltaic park developed by Eunice will provide the required energy. However, the future expansion of green hydrogen production will rely on securing abundant and affordable renewable energy. This will be accomplished by integrating the hydrogen project with two other initiatives by the Eunice group: the electrical interconnection of Crete with Egypt and the construction of renewable energy systems on the Aegean islands.
Giorgos Pehlivanoglou, Vice President of Eunice, emphasized the importance of connecting the hydrogen project to these other initiatives to ensure a sustainable and cost-effective energy supply. He noted that the project’s feasibility relies on securing substantial energy from renewable sources. Pehlivanoglou further stated that the electrical interconnection project with Egypt remains viable and active.
Melissa Verykios, representing the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, which includes participation from the European Commission, highlighted the significance of the two hydrogen valleys planned in Greece. These projects position the country at the forefront of new technologies, provide a competitive edge in Europe, and open up opportunities for exporting energy to Northern Europe.
The Crete Aegean hydrogen valley project holds immense potential for Greece’s energy landscape and green transition. Through the production and distribution of green hydrogen, the country can establish itself as a leader in sustainable technologies while capitalizing on the export potential of clean energy resources.
