In an evolving energy landscape, the transition to sustainable energy solutions is a defining challenge of our time, and the need for efficient energy storage becomes more pressing by the day. Consequently, hydrogen, biogas and green gases are emerging as pivotal energy storage solutions. Their capacity to store energy efficiently and sustainably presents a compelling case for their integration into global energy matrices. For countries like Greece, with its unique energy demands and geostrategic location, these gases could redefine its energy blueprint. But why exactly are these gases pivotal to the future of energy? The present article also explores the potential of these gases within the context of Greece’s current legal regime.

II. THE ADVANTAGES OF HYDROGEN AND BIOGAS AS ENERGY STORAGE SOLUTIONS 

In the quest for sustainable energy storage, the merits of hydrogen and biogas have positioned them as frontrunners in the energy sector. Their unique attributes cater to a diverse array of needs, making them indispensable in a rapidly evolving energy landscape, as follows:

Scalability: Both hydrogen and biogas possess an intrinsic advantage in that they can be produced in either localized units for community consumption or in vast facilities for industrial demands. This scalability ensures that they can adapt to a range of energy needs, from rural to urban landscapes.

Versatility: Their applicability across multiple sectors is another feather in their cap. Whether it’s for heating homes, powering vehicles, or driving industrial processes, these gases have broad utility.

High Energy Density: Especially in the case of hydrogen, the high energy density means that more power can be stored in a smaller volume, making it particularly useful for applications where space is at a premium, such as urban centers or transportation hubs.

Coupled with the above advantages, regulatory frameworks and incentives further bolster the case for these green gases.

III. EUROPEAN REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK 

Given that the European Green Deal , a cornerstone of the continent’s climate agenda, underscores the ambition of the EU to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, a significant component of this vision is hydrogen, especially the green variant, produced via renewable energy sources. More specifically, the “EU Hydrogen Strategy” provides a roadmap for its proliferation and integration across the member states by setting renewable hydrogen as an important energy carrier to move away from Russian fossil fuel imports.

Next in line, the revised Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E)  regulation advocates for cross-border energy infrastructure, signaling a strong endorsement for the integration of hydrogen and other green gases. The regulation not only recognizes the importance of these gases but actively works towards their assimilation into the pre-existing gas infrastructure.

Adding another layer of support is the recently revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) . This framework actively champions energy from renewable sources, with a spotlight on biogas, promoting its rightful place in Europe’s energy mix.

IV. GREEK REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK

In parallel, Greece has charted its own path in line with the broader European vision. In accordance with the National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) for 2021-2030, as of lately revised,  Green hydrogen has been boosted from 1.2 GW to 1.7 GW in the new plan, which translates to 135,000 tons, in order to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors, such as transportation and industry.

The Greek Hydrogen Roadmap, although nascent as of 2022 , underscores Greece’s intent to harness its abundant renewable resources, notably solar and wind energy, for the production of green hydrogen. This vision not only caters to domestic requirements but also positions Greece as a potential heavyweight in the European energy marketplace. However, the lack of a comprehensive framework for the development, licensing, installation and operation of green hydrogen projects is much highlighted. Following that, the revised NECP, is structured on five pillars, starting from the production and distribution of hydrogen and renewable gases, the use of hydrogen and biogas, as well as the legislation and regulatory framework.

In addition, the revised NECP provides that three phases have been designed, specifically, the initial phase, spanning 2022-2027, is anticipated to be marked by uncertainty, elevated expenses, and a lack of the requisite infrastructure. During this period, the state’s financial support will be crucial for the establishment of hydrogen-related infrastructure. The subsequent phase, covering 2027-2030, will witness the launch of pilot projects. In this timeframe, while the government’s role remains central, there will be a strong emphasis on incentives, both tax-related and financial assistance, complemented by private sector involvement. The final stage, post-2030, envisions a gradual reduction in state support and incentives. By this phase, it’s projected that the Hydrogen Market will lean more towards self-sustaining private endeavors.

V. CONCLUSION

Hydrogen, biogas, and other green gases stand at the crossroads of Europe and Greece’s energy transition. Bolstered by their inherent advantages and complemented by a robust regulatory framework and attractive incentives, these gases are more than just an alternative – they are the future of sustainable energy storage. As global energy demands evolve, the continued focus on and investment in these green gases will be paramount for a sustainable future. Embracing this transition now is not just strategic but imperative for the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants.

Maria-Konstantina Lili-Kokkori

Lawyer

LL.M. in Public International Law, Law School of Athens,

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

LL.M. Energy and Climate Law, University of Groningen

Sioufas and Associates Law Firm, Silver Sponsor at Southeast Energy Forum 2023