Brussels, 20 November 2024 – In a significant move to bolster the global hydrogen economy, Hydrogen Europe and the Green Hydrogen Association (GH2 India) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the European Hydrogen Week. This strategic partnership aims to foster collaboration and mutual support, strengthening knowledge exchange to promote the advancement of the hydrogen sector across Europe and India.
The MoU, signed at the European Hydrogen Week where India is the exclusive partner country, underscores both regions’ commitment to fostering a robust, resilient, and sustainable hydrogen economy. This collaboration will facilitate the development of common initiatives, contributing to the sector at a global level and increasing the regular exchange of best practices relevant to both markets.
Nishaanth Balashanmugam, Director of GH2 India, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “GH2 India is thrilled to collaborate with Hydrogen Europe to accelerate the growth of the global hydrogen economy. As India strengthens its position in green hydrogen, this partnership signifies a powerful step forward for both regions. Europe has emerged as a key partner to India’s clean energy ambitions, and I hope this collaboration is a step forward in aligning trade and our shared objectives.”
Echoing these sentiments, Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO of Hydrogen Europe, emphasised the importance of this cooperation, saying, “Hydrogen Europe is extremely pleased to start a close collaboration with GH2 India regarding the upscale of the hydrogen economy. India has evolved into a strong global player in hydrogen, and it is of utmost importance for Europe to partner up in mutual interest.”
The partnership between Hydrogen Europe and GH2 India highlights both regions’ dedication to fostering a sustainable hydrogen economy that supports the transition to clean energy on a global scale. Designated as one of the EU’s strategic partners, India shares the European commitments to effective multilateralism and sustainable development.
This collaboration comes at a crucial time, as the European Commission recently published the terms and conditions for its second domestic auction for the production of renewable hydrogen via the Innovation Fund. Scheduled to open on 3 December 2024, the auction will award up to €1.2 billion in support to renewable hydrogen producers located in the European Economic Area (EEA). This initiative aims to de-risk investments with public support, further contributing to the creation of a European market for renewable hydrogen.
