Welcome to India Renewable Energy News | Contact: +91 9220337640



Follow India Renewable Energy News on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights

Leaked EU Clean Industrial Deal Draft Highlights Key Hydrogen Initiatives

International

Feb 20, 2025

A leaked European Commission draft, titled “The Clean Industrial Deal: A Joint Roadmap for Competitiveness and Decarbonisation”, outlines major hydrogen-related actions under its Lead Markets strategy. These initiatives aim to accelerate renewable and low-carbon hydrogen adoption and provide certainty for investors.

Key Hydrogen Policy Actions
  1. Low-Carbon Hydrogen Delegated Act: The European Commission aims to adopt this act by Q1 2025, ensuring clarity for investors in a pragmatic manner.
  2. RFNBO Delegated Act Review: The Commission will conduct a Q1 2025 study to assess barriers to upscaling renewable hydrogen, potentially leading to an earlier-than-expected review before 2028.
  3. European Hydrogen Bank – Third Call: In Q3 2025, a new funding round will be launched, though budget details remain undisclosed. The EU will also encourage Member States to use the auctions-as-a-service (AaaS) model to direct unused funds towards hydrogen projects.
  4. Hydrogen-Powered Corporate PPAs: A pilot Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) program will be launched on Feb 26, 2025, in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB). The EIB will counter-guarantee part of these PPAs, helping businesses—especially SMEs and energy-intensive industries—secure long-term renewable electricity contracts.
  5. Hydrogen Mechanism Initiative: Expected in Q2 2025, this program will mobilize and connect hydrogen suppliers and buyers, particularly in the maritime and aviation sectors, linking them with financing and de-risking instruments.
Significance of the Clean Industrial Deal

These hydrogen-focused actions aim to strengthen EU’s clean energy leadership, boost industrial competitiveness, and reduce investment risks in the hydrogen sector. If implemented effectively, they will accelerate Europe’s transition towards renewable hydrogen, ensuring long-term economic and environmental benefits.