Recent developments
EU hydrogen build-out
The EU advanced supply with six RFNBO projects funded under the 2024 Innovation Fund Auction, totalling €270.6 million. Located in Spain, Finland, and Norway, the projects plan 381.25 MWe of electrolysers, targeting roughly 500 kt of renewable hydrogen and 3.4 Mt CO2 abatement over 10 years. Two projects prioritise maritime offtake. Awarded bids ranged from €0.33–€1.88/kg, indicating cost expectations for early large-scale deployment.
Corridor refuelling opens
On-road demand preparedness progressed as France's first motorway hydrogen refuelling station for heavy goods vehicles on the A4 began operations, supplied with RFNBO-certified hydrogen under a multi-year contract. The TEAL Mobility site dispenses up to 1 t/day at 350 and 700 bar for HGVs and light vehicles. Upstream, Lhyfe operates 21 MW across four sites, plans a 70% capacity increase in 2026, and uses type-IV container logistics for delivery.
Heavy industry decarbonizes
Industrial platforms highlighted hydrogen-ready process routes. thyssenkrupp reported CDP Climate A recognition and progress on a hydrogen-capable direct reduction plant at the Duisburg steel site, while marketing electrolysis plants and process schemes for clean ammonia, green methanol, sustainable aviation fuel, and carbon capture. The company is also developing pure oxyfuel for cement’s conversion.
Storage and pipeline moves
Equipment and midstream positioning intensified in China. Sinopec Capital invested in Faurecia Hydrogen Energy, a storage specialist producing Type I/III/IV cylinders and systems for transport and non-vehicle uses, via its dedicated Hydrogen Energy Fund. In parallel, Nanjing Engineering acquired the East China Pipeline Design Institute, expanding qualifications in long-distance pipelines and storage, and enabling entry into hydrogen and aviation fuel pipeline markets.
Pyrolysis and byproducts
Alternative H2 pathways advanced with a Kemira–Hazer MOU to assess deploying methane pyrolysis technology within Kemira operations. The parties will test Hazer carbon in water treatment and evaluate technical and commercial feasibility, with potential for licensing and offtake if results meet requirements.
Refining and ESG signals
Downstream operators reported operational upgrades consistent with future hydrogen use. Essar’s Stanlow refinery completed a major turnaround and installed the UK’s first hydrogen-ready furnace, alongside calls for CBAM coverage of refining to manage carbon leakage. Separately, Nobian secured an EcoVadis Platinum rating, noting 100% renewable electricity and science-based targets toward 2040 carbon neutrality, framing procurement and disclosure expectations for chemical value chains.