Elcogen Secures €24.9 Million EU Innovation Fund Grant to Scale Green Hydrogen Production

Elcogen, a leading European manufacturer of clean energy technology, has announced its selection for the European Union’s 2024 Innovation Fund grant. The €24.9 million funding will accelerate the company's efforts to expand its manufacturing of solid oxide electrolyser cell (SOEC) and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technologies in Estonia. These advancements are pivotal for enabling efficient green hydrogen production and delivering emission-free electricity, aligning with Europe's ambitious energy transition goals.

What Is the EU Innovation Fund?

The European Union Innovation Fund is one of the largest global programs supporting innovative low-carbon technologies. In 2024, it allocated €4.8 billion to 85 groundbreaking projects. Collectively, these projects aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 476 million tonnes of CO₂ over the next decade. The selected initiatives span cleantech manufacturing, renewable energy, energy storage, and hydrogen production, demonstrating Europe’s commitment to a sustainable future.

Why This Grant Matters for Elcogen?

The funding will help Elcogen scale its manufacturing capabilities, especially in SOEC and SOFC technologies, which are crucial for efficient green hydrogen production. The company’s innovations reduce commercial costs, making green hydrogen more accessible for industries striving to meet net-zero emission goals.

Elcogen’s CEO, Enn Õunpuu, highlighted the importance of this recognition:

“This grant underscores the EU’s dedication to building a competitive green hydrogen value chain across Europe. Scaling up production is critical to meeting the demands of the energy transition.”

COO Stefano Piscitelli added:

“This award reflects Elcogen’s significant role in advancing efficient and affordable green hydrogen technologies, fostering Europe’s green energy transition.”

Key Milestones in Green Hydrogen Development

Elcogen’s solid oxide technology enables flexible energy solutions by converting emission-free energy into green hydrogen and vice versa.

With its facilities in Estonia, Finland, and a global customer base across 30 countries, Elcogen has positioned itself as a leader in providing cost-efficient solutions for a carbon-neutral future.

The Bigger Picture: Europe’s Decarbonisation Journey

The grant also reinforces the EU’s broader commitment to decarbonisation and energy independence. By supporting scalable clean energy projects, the Innovation Fund aims to drive down costs, reduce emissions, and create a robust hydrogen economy across Europe.