Ukraine Highlights the Strategic Advantages of Hydrogen

On June 24, Hydrogen Ukraine’s team, led by CEO Iaroslav Kryl, presented an innovative hydrogen project to the Odesa Regional State Administration. They highlighted the strategic advantages of hydrogen and the ongoing progress in developing Hydrogen Valleys across Europe.

During the presentation, Mr. Kryl discussed the development of Ukraine’s national hydrogen strategy and the inclusion of Hydrogen Ukraine’s project within this framework. He emphasised that the grant secured through InnovateUkraine, funded by UK International Development and hosted by the British Embassy in Kyiv, has enabled a comprehensive feasibility study.

Ukraine is planning the construction of a hydrogen pipeline

Key points of the project plan were outlined, including the construction of a hydrogen pipeline and a thorough geological assessment. These steps are pivotal in ensuring the project’s success and aligning with Europe’s broader energy transition goals.

The Odesa Regional State Administration expressed strong interest and support for the project, recognising its potential to position Odesa as a leading hub in the hydrogen economy.

Ukraine’s president sees advantages for green energy 

On June 12, Mr. Kryl took the stage as a speaker at the Ukraine-EU Hydrogen Corridor Roundtable in Berlin. 

As Europe anticipates a swift rise in demand for clean hydrogen, its local production capacity remains limited. Consequently, the European industry is eyeing external suppliers, with Ukraine emerging as a prime candidate. Ukraine’s structural advantages, like favourable renewable energy resources, land availability, and a well-developed gas transportation system linked to the European network – position it as a potential key supplier of clean hydrogen to Europe.

Mr. Kryl highlighted Ukraine’s readiness to seize this opportunity by presenting two significant Hydrogen Valleys projects developed by Hydrogen Ukraine. He also highlighted the company’s success in securing a grant. The competition was announced during the previous Ukraine Recovery Conference in London in 2023.

The roundtable discussions focused on unlocking Ukraine’s hydrogen potential, covering potential financing sources, offtake agreements, regulatory frameworks, and coordination among multiple stakeholders.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasised Ukraine’s natural advantages for modern energy during his speech on the first day of the conference. He asserted that while gas generation will address current energy shortages, a transition to hydrogen will eventually balance the new “green” energy landscape.

The Ukraine-EU Hydrogen Corridor Roundtable marks a significant step towards harnessing Ukraine’s capabilities in clean hydrogen production, positioning it as a pivotal player in Europe’s decarbonisation efforts.