The Importance of Integrating Ukraine Into the European Hydrogen Infrastructure
Hydrogen Europe discussed the importance of Ukrainian hydrogen for the European market at the third Annual Conference “From Promises to Reality: Acceleration of Hydrogen Technologies in Ukraine and Beyond.”
Yorgo Hattsimarkakis – Chief Executive Officer of Hydrogen Europe – discussed the need to integrate Ukraine into the European hydrogen infrastructure. He also mentioned the importance of a partnership between Ukraine and the EU.
Key topics of the speech:
- The importance of partnership with Ukraine
Hattsimarkakis began his speech by emphasising the importance of keeping Ukraine as a partner for Hydrogen Europe. He emphasised that the organisation sees great potential in the rapid entry of Ukrainian hydrogen into the markets of Central Europe, particularly Germany and Austria. This cooperation is important for both parties, and Hydrogen Europe is very grateful for the opportunity to cooperate with Ukraine.
- Ukraine’s potential in hydrogen production
Ukraine has significant potential for hydrogen production, which can be used in various industries such as agriculture and the steel industry. Hydrogen can become an important component in producing fertilisers and steel – key markets for Ukrainian hydrogen. This can provide for Ukraine’s internal needs and create opportunities for exports.
- Infrastructure for hydrogen transportation
One of the unique advantages of Ukraine is its infrastructure for transporting hydrogen to Europe. In particular, there are already pipeline connections, as well as the possibility of transportation by sea or river. The ports of Odesa and Mykolaiv are ready to process up to 5 million tons of hydrogen annually. It is a significant indicator of the development of exports.
- Challenges and ways to overcome them
Hatzimarkakis outlined the main challenges facing the industry. One of them is the need to create a system for tracking and certifying the origin of hydrogen. To solve this issue, Hydrogen Europe is working on implementing a digital product passport, which will allow accurate tracking of the origin of hydrogen. However, the complexity of European legislation creates significant bureaucratic obstacles that need to be simplified.
- The future of cooperation and support of Ukraine
In conclusion, Hattsimarkakis emphasised that Hydrogen Europe plans to continue supporting Ukraine and developing hydrogen energy in the country. After the elections to the European Parliament, a new commission is expected to be formed, which will also focus on cooperation with Ukraine, reducing bureaucratic obstacles and developing hydrogen energy.
Comments of Ukrainian representatives
After Yorgo Hattsimarkakis’ speech, the Ukrainian representatives expressed gratitude for the support and noted his huge role in Ukraine’s integration into the European hydrogen strategy. They are confident that Ukrainian hydrogen will find its rightful place on the world market and expressed hope for further fruitful cooperation with Hydrogen Europe.
This speech was an important step in developing hydrogen energy in Ukraine and its integration into the European hydrogen infrastructure. It will contribute to the sustainable development of the energy sector on both sides.
