- Today marks a crucial development in European energy collaboration, with 37 infrastructure companies finalizing agreements in Brussels for the establishment of the European Network of Network Operators for Hydrogen (ENNOH).
- This initiative, in alignment with the EU’s Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Market Package, aims to streamline hydrogen transmission across the EU and enhance the integration of renewable energy sources.
Brussels– In a significant move towards shaping Europe’s energy future, 37 infrastructure companies from across the European Union gathered in Brussels today to finalize the agreements for the establishment of the European Network of Network Operators for Hydrogen (ENNOH). This critical step, facilitated by a landmark meeting with EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson, marks the culmination of six months of dedicated collaboration among prospective Hydrogen Transmission Network Operators (HTNOs).
Advancing the Hydrogen and Gas Markets Decarbonization Package
The agreements submitted to Commissioner Simson align with the broader objectives of the EU’s Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Market Package, focusing on enhancing the market for alternative gases, including renewable gas and hydrogen, while ensuring affordability. ENNOH is expected to play a pivotal role in harmonizing technical and operational rules to ensure the efficient and safe operation of an interconnected hydrogen system across the EU.
Review Process and Future Steps
The deliverables from ENNOH will soon be reviewed by the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) and the European Commission, with the review process set to begin promptly. Following this, an ambitious Work Programme will be developed, laying out the tasks and goals for ENNOH before its formal establishment, anticipated next year.
Collaborative Efforts and European Integration
ENNOH’s formation represents a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including ENTSO-E, ENTSOG, the EU DSO Entity, and other key participants. This network is designed to facilitate methodologies consistent across gas, electricity, and hydrogen sectors, ensuring that differing national progresses on hydrogen infrastructure do not lead to fragmented systems.
Commissioner Simson’s Insights
EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson highlighted ENNOH’s exclusive focus on developing hydrogen networks, from production to consumption points, to meet the growing needs of the hydrogen market. This initiative is part of the European Green Deal, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the EU by 2050.
Strategic Impact and Long-term Goals
The establishment of ENNOH is a strategic response to the evolving energy needs of Europe, emphasizing the importance of hydrogen as a key component in curbing emissions, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors like heavy industries and transport. The European Commission continues to support hydrogen initiatives through funding and state aid packages, aiming to reach a production capacity of 10 million metric tons of hydrogen by 2030.
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