Procedures leading to the establishment of Greek hydrogen market appear set to progress faster than expected, the government’s strategic decision for greater renewable energy penetration of the energy market, investment interest and Germany’s upcoming EU presidency being catalysts. The government will aim to implement related regulatory framework by July.

Hydrogen tariffs, sector support, technical prerequisites for the infusion of hydrogen into the natural gas network, as well as the determination of maximum mix levels for the two fuels are among the issues included in the new framework, to be accompanied by a sustainability study on related facilities.

Feasibility studies examining the level of competitiveness of such infrastructure as well as costs do not exist at present. They need to be conducted so as to enable authorities to determine the number of units that can enter the Greek market.

Hellenic Petroleum (ELPE) has publically expressed interest to develop the country’s first hydrogen refueling station for vehicles. Greek utility DEPA and Italy’s Snam have also expressed interest. Snam reiterated its interest at a New Year company event staged yesterday by Greek gas grid operator DESFA. Snam is a main shareholder, along with Enagas and Fluxys.

A recent McKinsey study commissioned by Snam for the Italian market showed that hydrogen can cover 23 percent of domestic energy demand in 2050 amid a 95 percent decarbonized market.