Small-scale Hydrogen Valley

This program targets consortia across the EU and Associated Countries, focusing on stakeholders committed to establishing and expanding integrated hydrogen value chains. The primary objective is to activate a long-lasting hydrogen economy, accelerate the deployment of Hydrogen Valleys, improve public perception of hydrogen technologies, and contribute to the EU Green Deal and Hydrogen Strategy.

This funding initiative supports comprehensive projects that demonstrate innovative, small-scale Hydrogen Valleys, covering the entire hydrogen value chain from production to various end-uses. Projects must integrate hydrogen technologies with broader energy systems, targeting high Technology Readiness Levels (TRL 6 to 8) to showcase real-world applicability and significant GHG reductions.

This program provides grant funding for Innovation Actions, with a maximum Clean Hydrogen JU contribution of EUR 9.00 million per proposal. Projects are expected to include at least two years of operation for monitoring and assessment, requiring a clear implementation calendar and a robust funding plan that may integrate other EU or national funding sources.

Applicants must adhere to specific administrative and collaborative conditions, including strict page limits for proposals and a mandatory consortium structure involving key hydrogen sector stakeholders. Additionally, special provisions apply to intellectual property rights and the declaration of certain project costs, ensuring strategic alignment and proper financial management.

The application process for the "Small-scale Hydrogen Valley" topic follows a single-stage submission, which has already closed. Proposals were evaluated based on established award criteria, and successful projects will lead to grant agreements, with an aim to improve chances for good proposals to find alternative funding through a "Seal of Excellence" if not selected due to budget limitations.

This funding program is primarily authorized by the Clean Hydrogen JU 2023 Annual Work Programme, operating under the broader Horizon Europe framework. Its implementation is governed by key regulations such as the Horizon Europe Framework Programme and EU Financial Regulation, with official texts available through the Clean Hydrogen JU and Funding & Tenders Portal.