In a momentous occasion, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Hydrogen Europe, the leading industry association representing the hydrogen sector, have signed a Joint Declaration aimed at strengthening collaboration and expediting the progress of hydrogen technologies.
The signing ceremony took place on 27 June 2023 during Hydrogen Europe’s General Assembly and Summer Market, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward a zero-emission society.
The Joint Declaration signifies a new phase of cooperation between UNIDO and Hydrogen Europe within the framework of the UNIDO Global Programme for Hydrogen in Industry. Hydrogen Europe, boasting a membership of over 450 organizations, including more than 30 EU regions and 35 national associations, plays a pivotal role in advocating for hydrogen as a catalyst for a sustainable and clean energy transition. UNIDO, on the other hand, supports its 171 Member States in various areas, including ending hunger, stopping climate breakdown, and promoting sustainable supply chains.
The UNIDO Global Programme for Hydrogen aims to provide essential assistance to developing countries in their pursuit of net-zero industrial development through the production and utilization of clean hydrogen. By doing so, the program aims to create job opportunities, enhance skills, attract investments, ensure energy security, and enable the participation of developing countries in the global hydrogen trade.
The expanded partnership outlined in the Joint Declaration encompasses several key areas of collaboration. Firstly, knowledge exchange and capacity building will be a focus, with UNIDO and Hydrogen Europe working together on policies, technical skills, standards, and technologies to support the implementation of clean hydrogen in industries. This collaboration will enhance the understanding and utilization of hydrogen technologies within industrial processes.
Promoting the adoption and deployment of hydrogen technologies across industrial sectors is another critical aspect of the partnership. UNIDO and Hydrogen Europe aim to unlock the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution, fostering its widespread adoption in various industries.
Joint events and participation in global forums will also be organized by UNIDO and Hydrogen Europe to facilitate knowledge-sharing, discussions, and collaboration on hydrogen-related topics. These platforms will enable stakeholders to exchange ideas, experiences, and best practices, further propelling the development and adoption of hydrogen technologies.
The partnership will also support the development of pilot projects in the industry, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of hydrogen adoption. Additionally, efforts will be made to facilitate the establishment of hydrogen industrial clusters and value chains, enabling the integration of hydrogen technologies into existing industrial systems.
By joining forces with Hydrogen Europe, UNIDO gains access to a vast network of knowledge, expertise, and resources, keeping them up to date with the latest developments, applications, and experiences in the hydrogen field. Simultaneously, Hydrogen Europe will have the opportunity to collaborate on clean hydrogen projects in developing countries, contributing to the global transition toward sustainable and clean energy solutions.
Both UNIDO and Hydrogen Europe are optimistic that this formalized collaboration, as outlined in the Joint Declaration, will yield significant benefits for the industry and society as a whole. By working together, these organizations aim to drive the global deployment of clean hydrogen, leading to energy, economic, and social development, and paving the way for a sustainable future.
