Austria is setting ambitious plans to emerge as the “European centre for green hydrogen,” with the federal government introducing new measures to strengthen investment, infrastructure, and compliance in the sector. Announcing the initiatives, Minister of Economic Affairs Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (ÖVP) outlined how a combination of import strategies, financial support for electrolyser projects, and regulatory reforms would accelerate Austria’s role in the continent’s energy transition.

The government has confirmed that it will present two major regulations for public review this week. The first involves a €20 million grant programme for investments in electrolysis plants, a move designed to boost domestic production capacity for green hydrogen. Electrolysis, which uses renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, is considered a cornerstone of decarbonisation strategies in heavy industry, transport, and power storage. By incentivising investment at this stage, Austria hopes to lower costs and support early-stage adoption of hydrogen technology across its economy.

The second regulation introduces certification guidelines aligned with EU standards, ensuring that green hydrogen produced or imported into Austria meets strict sustainability criteria. This measure is expected to provide greater clarity for investors, businesses, and consumers, while positioning Austria as a reliable market for hydrogen trade within the European Union.

In parallel, Austria is advancing plans for a hydrogen pipeline project that will support cross-border energy integration. By linking Austria’s infrastructure with that of neighbouring countries, the project aims to enable the secure and efficient transport of green hydrogen to major industrial clusters. This regional connectivity is vital if Austria is to act as a hub for the broader European market, particularly as the EU pushes for greater energy independence and reduced reliance on fossil fuel imports.

Minister Hattmannsdorfer emphasised that the strategy is not only about technological leadership but also about long-term competitiveness. “Austria must position itself at the forefront of green hydrogen in Europe. With targeted investments and clear certification rules, we are laying the foundation for a future-proof energy system and new economic opportunities,” he said.

Austria’s updated hydrogen strategy also builds on its renewable energy strengths, with hydropower and wind resources providing a natural advantage for green hydrogen production. The government’s measures are expected to attract both domestic and international investors while supporting local industries in meeting their decarbonisation targets.

Analysts note that while Austria’s €20 million support package is modest compared to larger EU economies, its strategic focus on certification and cross-border infrastructure could help the country punch above its weight in the hydrogen economy. By ensuring early compliance with EU standards and developing transport capacity, Austria is positioning itself as a trusted partner for hydrogen trade within the bloc.

Source:

https://www.vienna.at/austria-to-become-center-for-green-hydrogen/9674756?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F&edge_id=cx:18hydboi13ji619p7ke87v06q4:x7rl32cv1otk&newUser=true