Europe’s Renewable Hydrogen Revolution Outpaces U.S. Progress, Says EU President Von der Leyen

Europe surges ahead in renewable hydrogen with 2 GW of new investments, quadrupling capacity, while the U.S. lags. EU's ambitious REPowerEU plan and Hydrogen Bank back transformative hydrogen projects to lead global decarbonization.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced significant advancements in Europe’s renewable hydrogen sector, placing the continent well ahead of the United States in investment and infrastructure. Speaking at the Renewable Hydrogen Summit, von der Leyen highlighted Europe’s commitment to achieving a sustainable, hydrogen-based economy through robust legislative and investment frameworks.

2 GW of Renewable Hydrogen Investments in Europe

Over the past year, Europe has finalized investment plans for more than 2 GW of renewable hydrogen projects, quadrupling the region's current capacity. A major milestone is the Stegra steel plant in Sweden, set to become the world’s largest renewable hydrogen project. This aggressive expansion contrasts with the U.S., where only two similar projects reached final investment decisions, underscoring Europe’s commanding lead in this sector.

REPowerEU and the Road to 10 Million Tons of Renewable Hydrogen by 2030

Europe's ambitious REPowerEU plan outlines targets to produce 10 million tons of renewable hydrogen by 2030. These goals aren’t just projections but are binding requirements for EU Member States, which must incorporate them into national laws by May 2025. Europe is committed to transitioning its heavy industries and transportation sectors to renewable hydrogen, marking a decisive shift toward decarbonization.

Addressing Challenges and Setting the Foundation for Clean Industrial Growth

Von der Leyen acknowledged challenges in project execution, highlighting that some projects may face delays or obstacles. However, these setbacks are part of a learning curve, helping Europe refine its approach to large-scale hydrogen deployment. The forthcoming Clean Industrial Deal aims to connect significant hydrogen initiatives with end users, addressing needs in hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as steel, cement, and chemicals.

European Hydrogen Bank

To further encourage hydrogen production, Europe has introduced the European Hydrogen Bank, providing fixed premiums for renewable hydrogen projects over the next decade. Already, nearly 700 million euros have been allocated in its first auction, a strong incentive for more stakeholders to join Europe’s hydrogen push.

A Transformative Vision for Europe’s Energy Future

As Europe continues to build a climate-neutral economy, von der Leyen emphasized that achieving energy independence requires persistent, incremental steps. Europe’s commitment to renewable hydrogen is not just about technology or energy but is also an economic strategy designed to create high-quality jobs across the continent.