The Ocean-H2 (Offshore Clean Hydrogen Production for Multi-use Purposes) project has been launched under the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership (SBEP) to explore the long-term feasibility of producing large-scale green hydrogen from offshore renewable energy (ORE). The initiative seeks to support Europe’s decarbonisation objectives by enabling sustainable hydrogen generation for multiple end-use sectors and contributing to a cleaner energy future.

The project is coordinated by the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Malta, with participation from the Department of Social Sciences at the University of Naples Federico II, Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE), Fraunhofer ISIT (Germany), and CNRS FEMTO-ST (France). Together, these research institutions aim to identify the most efficient and scalable technological solutions for producing green hydrogen offshore within the European Union.

Ocean-H2 focuses on three sea basins — the Mediterranean Sea, North Sea, and Baltic Sea — which will serve as case studies for implementing offshore microgrids powered by medium-voltage direct current (MVDC). The project will evaluate various configurations and performance parameters to develop models for integrating these offshore systems into existing EU power grids. By aligning decentralised generation with continental distribution, the project seeks to enhance energy reliability, sustainability, and cross-border connectivity.

A significant component of the initiative is the social research and communication work led by the University of Naples Federico II. Under the scientific guidance of Professor Ivano Scotti and coordination of Professor Rosanna De Rosa, this team will ensure that the project adheres to the principles of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI). Their work will assess Societal Readiness within marine communities, addressing potential social challenges and fostering inclusive dialogue around hydrogen adoption.

In addition to technical and social dimensions, Ocean-H2 will develop realistic cost and investment scenarios for offshore hydrogen production. It will identify efficiency levers, evaluate economic feasibility, and assess community acceptance in each maritime setting. The partners are committed to adopting socio-technical approaches to manage stakeholder engagement, mitigate conflicts of interest, and promote participatory decision-making.

Source: 

https://hydrogen-central.com/ocean-h2-offshore-clean-hydrogen-production-for-multiple-uses/