Small-scale Hydrogen Valley

Code: 35847 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-06-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The scope of this flagship topic is to develop and demonstrate a small-scale Hydrogen Valley. It could demonstrate a combination of technologies either in existing and/or new markets for clean hydrogen, especially when applications are used in symbiose with each other. Proposals should demonstrate innovative approaches at system level: systemic and synergetic integration of hydrogen production (not restricted to electrolysis), distribution and end-use technologies. Proposals may also investigate interoperability, cause-effect stability of the overall system. Technologies demonstrated should be state-of the-art following technological developments previously funded by (but not limited to) the Clean Hydrogen Partnership.

Large-scale Hydrogen Valley

Code: 35844 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-06-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The scope of this flagship topic is to develop and demonstrate a large-scale Hydrogen Valley. It could demonstrate a combination of technologies either in existing and/or new markets for clean hydrogen (including hard-to-abate sectors), especially when applications are used in symbiose with each other. Proposals should demonstrate innovative approaches at system level: systemic and synergetic integration of hydrogen production (not restricted to electrolysis), distribution and end-use technologies. Proposals may also investigate interoperability, cause-effect stability of the overall system. Technologies demonstrated should be state-of the-art following technological developments previously funded by (but not limited to) the Clean Hydrogen Partnership.

Knowledge transfer and training of civil servants, safety officials, and permitting staff to improve safety assessment and licensing procedures across Europe

Code: 35842 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-05-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

This topic is focused on transfering knowledge and training of civil servants, safety officials, and permitting staff in order to improve safety assessment and licensing procedures across Europe. Specifically, the project will compile the existing evaluation, permitting, and licensing procedures for hydrogen projects across Europe in order to establish the training material. From this base, the project will compile present best practices for permitting Fuel Cells and Hydrogen (FCH) technologies across the EU into a handbook. The project will provide training to public officials and all other types of staff engaged in permit applications, project assessment and certification, and permit granting. This will allow streamlining project implementation and ensure effective permitting and licensing procedures. Projects should further address the knowledge transfer between Hydrogen Valleys and between Member States on permitting and certification of hydrogen projects, for example, based on the best practice handbook.

Understanding emissions of PFAS from electrolysers and/or fuel cells under product use

Code: 35840 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-05-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

This proposal is expected to focus on the fundamental understanding of the potential PFAS emissions in water electrolysers and fuel cells under product use. It aims to identify the root cause of PFAS compounds in water electrolysers and fuel cells, and to quantify the potential release of these substances into the environment during operation. Additionally, this project should propose solutions to manage and minimise emissions from current products corresponding to their amount and relevance of emission. It should include recommendations on a reduced release into the environment and propose possible mitigation options for avoidance of emissions.

Simultaneous ionomer and iridium recycling

Code: 35831 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-05-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

This topic aims at simultaneously recycling Ir and ionomers after catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) separation from the PEMWE stack at the EoL and/or from scraps and waste. The novelty and contribution of this topic is to understand the impact of the separation process of the waste stream on the ionomer and PGMs (possible impurities, degradation of the polymer’s molecular structure, change in physical/chemical properties, performance, etc.). This fundamental understanding of material degradation is crucial for optimising their quality before their re-use in PEMWE cells to ensure sustainable circularity.

Demonstration of stationary fuel cells in renewable energy communities

Code: 35828 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-04-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

Energy communities can be an effective means of re-structuring our energy systems, by empowering citizens to drive the energy transition locally and directly benefit from better energy efficiency, lower bills, reduced energy poverty and more local green job opportunities. Renewable energy communities, as defined in Article 2(16) of Recast Renewable Energy Directive (Directive (EU) 2018/2001) can introduce positive environmental impacts by increasing the use of renewable energy, thereby enhancing local energy security and reducing energy import from the main power grid, lowering energy bills. This aggregation therefore increases collective advantages and furthermore benefits the local distribution grid thanks to sharing resources and to a more efficient energy distribution, respectively. Energy communities are also key in bearing the adoption of new energy technologies and practices, thus paving the way toward innovation in the energy landscape.
In the context of the scope of renewable energy communities, proposals are expected to demonstrate an integrated renewable energy system applying stationary fuel cells, possibly in combination with other hydrogen technologies, to supply reliable and efficient energy in at least one renewable energy community.

Reliable, efficient, scalable and lower cost 1 MW-scale PEMFC system for maritime applications

Code: 35826 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-03-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The scope of this topic is to develop, validate and demonstrate a reliable, efficient, and low-cost PEM based fuel cell system (FCS) with a minimum power output of 1 MW, suitable for further scaling to at least 10 MW for use in maritime applications.

Fuel cell stack development and integration of the FCS in a vessel are outside the scope of the project.

Scalable innovative processes for the production of PEMFC MEAs

Code: 35824 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-03-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

This project aims at developing and scaling-up innovative manufacturing processes for MEAs of PEMFCs. Each step of the MEA manufacturing process should be addressed and achieve TRL 6 and MRL 4-5 by the end of the project, therefore demonstrating process technology in a relevant environment with capability to produce MEAs at a rate and characteristics mentioned. In this context, to meet the expected outcomes, the following Research and Development (R&D) activities should be addressed: the design, development, and construction of a prototype production line for MEAs, which will be tested in a relevant industrial environment to validate its performance, scalability, and ability to meet the required manufacturing specifications.

Configurable Fuel Cell Powertrain for Non-Road Mobile Machinery

Code: 35821 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-03-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The topic aims to demonstrate a configurable fuel cell powertrain capable of being integrated in at least two NRMM applications preferably related to ports or agriculture where one application has a minimum fuel cell power of 200 kW and the other a minimum fuel cell power of 100 kW.

Demonstration of scalable ammonia cracking technology

Code: 35818 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-02-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The topic focuses on developing a highly efficient, modular and scalable cracking technology to convert ammonia into high-purity hydrogen to the specifications needed for specific applications and scales. The modular and scalable technology will enable cost-competitive and safe use of hydrogen in industrial and market sectors such as hard-to-decarbonise and off-grid power generation applications. The primary outcomes should be an innovative, low-cost, and compact technology enabling dynamic operations for energy-efficient hydrogen production, contributing to the overall objectives of the Clean Hydrogen JU SRIA to reduce hydrogen production and transport costs. The scope of this topic is to design, manufacture and demonstrate in an operational environment a system prototype for efficient ammonia cracking for at least 100 kg/day production.

Development of cost effective and high-capacity compression solutions for hydrogen

Code: 35816 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-02-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

This topic aims at addressing the two-folded challenge of reducing hydrogen compression costs whilst at the same time leaping a substantial capacity increase and in a wide pressure range.

Development of mined, lined rock cavern for gaseous hydrogen storage

Code: 35813 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-02-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

Proposals under this topic should address the technical challenges stemming from combining large strains, fatigue conditions, and hydrogen service on the liner, the surrounding concrete, and the encompassing rock masses. Therefore, industrial development of this concept for hydrogen storage requires studies, tests and a combination of laboratory and field demonstrations.

Additionally, this topic focuses exclusively on gaseous hydrogen – liquid hydrogen is not considered because of its extremely low temperature requirements.

Towards exploration and evaluation of European natural hydrogen potential

Code: 35811 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-07 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

This topic aims to support both the development of new methods, technologies, and workflows that will enable the development of E&P of natural hydrogen in Europe. It will bridge the gap between Research and Innovation (R&I), regulatory framework, and economic investments to boost the energy transition.
Proposals in this call should aim at better understanding the mechanisms related to natural hydrogen generation and accumulation in the subsurface, developing specific tools and methods to assess the resource potential, demonstrating its environmentally and economically viable exploitation, and informing adequate regulation and policies in Europe for large-scale deployment.

Innovative hydrogen and solid carbon production from renewable gases/biogenic waste processes

Code: 35809 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-06 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The transformation of bio-based gases into hydrogen will provide a decarbonised fuel, avoiding implementing CO2 capture stages in industrial or energy processes. Methods to achieve such transformation are very diverse. They may be included in a family of processes of different nature comprising alternative energy transfer methods based on renewables (e.g., microwave, thermal and non-thermal plasma, induction, shockwave, radiation heating, direct thermal heating by several methods as Concentrated Solar Platform or molecular oxidation), and reactor designs (e.g., bubble column, plug, fluidised-bed, packed-bed, pulse tube, tubular, fluid wall, honeycomb monolith, moving carbon-bed, rotary kiln and others). These also involve combining these methods and the use or absence of catalysts, including innovative separation devices for enhanced purification and efficiency.
This topic focuses on innovative hydrogen and solid carbon production from renewable gases/biogenic waste processes.

Innovative co-electrolysis systems and integration with downstream processes

Code: 35806 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-05 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

Proposals under this topic should aim to accelerate the development of the co-electrolysis technology and its integration into real chemical synthesis process by proving the concept and the overall efficiency of the coupling between the co-electrolyser and the downstream process, mainly the catalytic reactor for the chemical synthesis. They should also contribute to resolving additional technological challenges on low-TRL level (cell/stack/stack module technology) to improve the stack operations for direct downstream process integration (downstream gas purity and composition, pressurised conditions) and the core technology impacting more drastically the lifetime (hence OPEX cost contribution) compared to steam electrolysis.

Efficient electrolysis coupling with variable renewable electricity and/or heat integration

Code: 35804 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

Projects under this topic should address efficient electrolysis coupling with variable renewable electricity or heat integration or both.

Specifically, project results, should contribute to all the following expected outcomes:

For all projects:

• Enhanced electrolysis capacity to produce renewable hydrogen (in line with EU regulations);
• Reduction of the levelised cost of hydrogen, including business models for generating additional income;
• Improved overall integration of electrolysis with the energy system.

For projects on coupling with variable renewable electricity:

• Fostering the use of electrolysis plants to balance the electrical network;
• Coupling of multi-MW electrolysis plants to variable renewable energy generation (both on- and off-grid, directly or indirectly coupled);
• Improved and diversified business models for electrolysis plants thanks to the provision of remunerated electrical grid services (at transmission and distribution system level).

For projects addressing heat integration:

• Fostering synergies between electrolysis plants and external heat stakeholders (producers and consumers);
• Improving thermal management within electrolysis plants;
• Improved and diversified business models for electrolysis plants through integrated thermal management and/or integration into heating supply networks.

Project results are expected to contribute to the following objectives of the Clean Hydrogen JU SRIA:

• Improve dynamic operation and efficiency of systems, with high durability and reliability, especially when operating dynamically, with the following KPIs of the Clean Hydrogen JU SRIA by 2030.
• Demonstrate the value of electrolysers for the power system through their ability to provide flexibility and allow higher integration of renewables;
• Operate efficiently (at system level including balance of plant) and safely (including with reduced gas crossover when relevant) under variable load with adequate flexibility to be coupled with variable renewable energy;
• MW scale direct coupling to renewable generation (both on- and off-grid) including offshore hydrogen production, aiming at identifying the best system configuration to reach competitiveness;
• Consider innovative system designs and improved balance of plant components to reduce parasitic losses and reduce cost (e.g. purpose-built rectifiers, integrated cooling systems, electrical heaters and heat-exchangers), when relevant in optimised electrical integration with renewables;
• Explore the options for utilising by-product oxygen and waste heat.

Scale-up and Optimisation of manufacturing processes for electrolyser materials, cells, or stacks

Code: 35801 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The scope of this topic is the development and demonstration of manufacturing processes which are suitable for scale-up and which can contribute to meeting predicted annual clean hydrogen production requirements. Considering manufacturing scale-up of new materials, the proposal should provide sufficient information to show that these materials have been proven to work at an appropriate scale.

Improved lifetime and cost of high-temperature electrolysers by introducing innovative materials and components in stacks and BoP

Code: 35799 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The scope of this topic is centred around minimising the effects of degradation to consequently extend the lifetime of high temperature steam electrolysers (HTSE) such as solid oxide electrolysers (SOEL) and proton-conducting ceramic electrolysers (PCCEL). HTSE technology has the potential to achieve a low cost of hydrogen production because of its higher energy efficiency due to the operation at high temperature.

Improvements in lifetime and cost of low temperature electrolysers by introducing advanced materials and components in stacks and balance of plant

Code: 35797 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JU-CLEANH2-2025-01-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 30/01/2025 | End submission calls: 23/04/2025

The scope of the topic is to address the lifetime, performance and cost of low temperature electrolysers at system level by developing, designing and testing advanced functional and structural materials and/or components for the cell, stack, and BoP.
The main objective of the current topic is to develop advanced cell and stack materials and BoP components that don’t induce degradation or reliability issues or even mitigate degradation and improve overall system durability.

Small-scale Hydrogen Valley

Code: 32476 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-06-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The scope of this flagship topic is to develop and demonstrate a small-scale Hydrogen Valley. It could demonstrate a combination of technologies either in existing and/or new markets for clean hydrogen, especially when applications are used in symbiose with each other.

Proposals should demonstrate innovative approaches at system level: global and synergetic integration of hydrogen production (not restricted to electrolysis), distribution and end-use technologies. Proposals may also investigate interoperability, cause-effect stability of the overall system. Technologies demonstrated should be state-of the-art following technological developments previously funded by (but not limited to) the Clean Hydrogen Partnership.

Large-scale Hydrogen Valley

Code: 32474 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-06-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The subject of this topic is the development and demonstration of a large-scale hydrogen valley. It could demonstrate a combination of technologies in either existing and/or new markets for clean hydrogen, especially when the applications are used in symbiosis with each other.

Proposals must demonstrate innovative system-level approaches: total and synergistic integration of hydrogen production (not limited to electrolysis), distribution and end-use technologies. Proposals can also explore interoperability, the cause-and-effect stability of the overall system. Technologies demonstrated should be cutting edge following technological developments previously funded by (but not limited to) the Clean Hydrogen Partnership.

Development of non-fluorinated components for fuel cells and electrolysers

Code: 32472 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-05-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The scope of this topic is limited to proton exchange membrane (PEM-based) fuel cells (PEMFCs) and/or electrolysers (PEMELs) because other hydrogen fuel cell and electrolyser technologies, e.g., high temperature solid oxide or proton conducting ceramics, and low temperature anion exchange membrane technologies typically do not incorporate PFAS in their materials components.

More specifically, the proposed project should focus on the development of non-fluorinated ionomers, both membrane and catalyst layer ionomer, as well as non-fluorinated membrane reinforcement materials to replace ePTFE-based membrane reinforcements.

Improved characterisation, prediction and optimisation of flame stabilisation in high-pressure premixed hydrogen combustion at gas-turbine conditions (RIA)

Code: 32470 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-04-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The research scope involves acquisition of fundamental knowledge, development of modelling and analytical tools, optimisation of advanced fuel injection concepts and/or combustion staging strategies to increase the robustness of operation and the fuel flexibility of gas turbines, while conserving their cycle efficiency and emissions performance.

It is of crucial importance to seek the widest generality and applicability of the results. This objective can be conveniently pursued by the adoption of canonical turbulent premixed flames configurations (e.g. Bunsen, bluff-body, transverse jets or swirl-stabilised) for the proposed work.

Portable fuel cells for backup power during natural disasters to power critical infrastructures

Code: 32468 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-04-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The topic focuses on the development and demonstration at an operational environment of a lightweight, robust, containerised and modular zero-emission transportable of at least 50 kWe fuel cell system to power critical infrastructures in the event of a natural disaster. The system should include all balance of plant components needed for operation.

Next generation on-board storage solutions for hydrogen-powered maritime applications

Code: 32466 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-03-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic centres around maritime transport, with a view on a spill-over to rail and road applications of similar energy storage needs (resulting from power by trajectory length).

The scope of the topic is to provide a full conceptual study of the proposed solution to storing hydrogen or a hydrogen carrier below deck of a vessel with high power propulsion needs (>500 kW) and high frequency operation. The scope further entails building a reference prototype for validating the concept, or several concepts in comparison, under real-world operating conditions.

Scaling-up Balance of Plant components for efficient high power heavy duty applications

Code: 32464 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-03-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic aims at development and validation of the new generation of high-power BoP components sized for ≥250 kW heavy duty fuel cell systems containing one single fuel cell stack or multiples of stacks. The developed BoP components should be compatible with upscaling to multi-MW propulsion systems.

Balance of plant components, architectures and operation strategies for improved PEMFC system efficiency and lifetime

Code: 32462 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-03-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic focuses on the balance of plant components, architectures and operation strategies for improved PEMFC system efficiency and lifetime.

The motivation of this topic is to achieve the overall improvement of the PEMFC-based systems by addressing the Balance of Plant (BoP) as the remaining system technology building block, thereby ensuring successful implementation of outcomes from R&I actions.

Demonstration and deployment of multi-purpose Hydrogen Refuelling Stations combining road and airport, railway, and/or harbour applications (IA)

Code: 32460 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-02-05 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

It is fundamental to develop and optimise HRS – Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (especially for trains, marine and airport applications), situated on depots, with corresponding captive demand for large-scale hydrogen. This concept assumes the provision of pressurised gaseous and/or liquid hydrogen together with the development of appropriate and reliable systems for lifetime prediction. Combining multi-mobility ecosystems (railway, maritime and airports) within the same HRS may reduce refuelling costs and supply chain costs.
The aim of this topic is to demonstrate a multipurpose HRS able to supply a combination of aviation, rail and/or heavy-duty road applications.

Demonstration of innovative solutions for highcapacity, reliable, flexible, and sustainable hydrogen compression technologies in commercial applications (IA)

Code: 32458 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-02-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic aims at further supporting the deployment of critical components in the hydrogen value chain, with demonstration in a real-life application, to increase confidence in and familiarity with hydrogen technologies. It involves dimensioning, manufacturing, installing and demonstrating a compression solution at a client site, including all related safety considerations and regulatory challenges with local authorities. The demonstration site should be a fully commercial site subject to all regulatory requirements of the country in which is deployed, and should be representative site for replication use-cases.

Demonstration of hydrogen purification and separation systems for renewable hydrogen-containing streams in industrial applications (IA)

Code: 32456 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-02-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

Current commercial purification techniques remain costly. Novel methods to purify hydrogen with higher efficiency and at lower cost would improve the overall hydrogen supply chain. A range of new membrane, electrochemical and thermochemical techniques are being developed and have shown promise to improve processes for purification of hydrogen. The natural progression towards commercialisation of next-level purification technologies is to expose them to real industrial conditions and to observe the hydrogen purity according to globally recognised standards.

This topic focuses on the demonstration of hydrogen purification and separation systems for renewable hydrogen-containing streams in industrial applications (IA).

Hydrogen production and integration in energy-intensive or specialty chemical industries in a circular approach to maximise total process efficiency and substance utilisation (IA)

Code: 32454 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-01-05 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic focuses on the production of clean hydrogen and its integration into those industries, within a circular approach. The long-term target (proposals should contribute to it) is to ensure continuous supply of clean hydrogen to those industries, at competitive costs compared to incumbent technologies. It is open to any production technology, and even combination of production technologies, as long as they operate from renewable input. This topic is suitable, but not limited to, a further expansion of a successful smaller project, a demonstration into a sector not yet covered by on-going initiatives, or an innovative demonstration of clean hydrogen production technology (or combination of technologies).

The scope of this topic is to demonstrate the integration of clean hydrogen production and supply to Energy Intensive and/or Specialty Chemical Industries for any combined applications (e.g. feedstock, heat and power generation, amalgamation with CO2, CO or N2 to generate synthetic fuels or hydrogen carriers, etc.) within a prism where circularity and sustainability are central, thereby considering transformation of waste into feedstock and/or capture and integration of any by-products from hydrogen production.

Development and implementation of online monitoring and diagnostic tools for electrolysers

Code: 32452 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-01-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The scope of this topic is to further develop methods and tools for monitoring and diagnostics of electrolyser systems and demonstrate these at an industrially relevant scale (> 100 kW) on one electrolyser type. Such tools would help reduce OPEX by making dynamic operation more durable and reliable, reducing degradation on the system, and increasing the system efficiency. The commercial utilisation and exploitation should be clearly considered in the project.

Development of innovative technologies for direct seawater electrolysis

Code: 32450 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-01-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The expectations stemming from the aforementioned expected outcomes create a set of challenges to be overcome in order to produce electrolysers of various scale of power for distributed hydrogen production, performed without other than basic mechanical filtration or purification of seawater. In order to understand and tune reaction mechanisms describing the desired catalytic activities and the overall stability and selectivity, special attention needs to be paid to in-depth experimental, computational and theoretical insight into the mechanistic pathways and properties of the electrode-electrolyte interface under operating conditions. The major effort should, therefore, focus on one hand on the improvement of the hydrogen electrode to work in this harsh environment and on the other hand on the improvement of the selectivity towards the oxygen evolution at the anode electrode, as well as, to the durability issues stemming from both corrosion processes and catalyst (and membrane when applies) poisoning.

Advanced anion exchange membrane electrolysers for low-cost hydrogen production for high power range applications

Code: 32448 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-01-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The scope of this topic is to develop the next generation of anion exchange membrane electrolyser stack layout delivering hydrogen at a pressure suitable for industrial end-uses.

Guidelines for sustainable-by-design systems across the hydrogen value chain

Code: 32446 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-05-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic addresses the development of sustainable-by-design guidelines, including reference criteria and prioritisation of actions, for a selection of FCH systems in the joint field of safe and sustainability assessment and eco-design. These guidelines should comprehensively address both the sustainability and safety aspects of systems pertaining to the primary applications of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

Investigation of microbial interaction for underground hydrogen porous media storage

Code: 32444 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-02-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

Different studies and projects (e.g. HYUSPRE, HYSTORIES) have assessed the feasibility of storing hydrogen in porous media geological formations. However, a comprehensive assessment of the risks (eg. production of certain corrosives compounds and other impurities) associated with the different groups of microorganisms in specific underground formations needs to be studied in detail, considering the boundary conditions specific of each site (e.g., temperature, pressure, pH, rock’s chemical composition, salinity, etc.). Related impact on rock properties (porosity, permeability, mechanical properties).
Overall this topic focuses on investigation of microbial interaction for underground hydrogen porous media storage.

Novel large-scale aboveground storage solutions for demand-optimised supply of hydrogen

Code: 32441 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-02-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

Research activities under this topic should focus on novel safe, low-cost bulk storage solutions with the potential to enable demand-and application-optimised supply of H­2 on the (multi-) tons range for the various applications mentioned in the Funding&Tenders. Also, research activities should have a focus on minimising the geometrical footprint and volume of the storage system, as well as on safely preventing the accidental release of large amounts of H2 by developing inherently safe storage solutions.

Demonstration of hydrogen fuel cell-powered inland or short sea shipping

Code: 32438 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-03-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

This topic aims at demonstrating, in an operational environment, fuel cell hydrogen based waterborne transport ecosystem, showing the feasibility and benefits of integrating hydrogen and hydrogen carriers into this hard to abate sector. The overarching goal is to address the ability to safely bunker hydrogen (pure or in terms of a hydrogen carrier), to store it on board and to consume it for propulsion in a waterborne environment.

Proposals should address the demonstration of fuel cell hydrogen powered inland or short sea vessels.

Innovative proton conducting ceramic electrolysis cells and stacks for intermediate temperature hydrogen production

Code: 32433 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2024-01-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 18/01/2024 | End submission calls: 17/04/2024

The topic focuses on the development of new cell and stack designs aiming at improving the performance and flexibility of operation, while reducing costly ceramic-based components and critical raw materials and strategic raw materials (e.g. light and heavy rare earth materials, LREE and HREE, Ni, Co).

Increasing the lifetime of electrolyser stacks

Code: 27417 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-07-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

Electrolysers are complex systems in which kinetics, electrochemistry and thermophysics drive performance degradation phenomena.

Durability of electrolyser stacks is affected by various degradation mechanisms occurring at material, interface, cell and stack levels: for instance, high temperature solid oxide cells (SOCs) and proton ceramic cells (PCCs) are susceptible to impurity poisoning, Ni migration and loss of percolation, oxide scale growth on interconnect, mechanical fracture of seals, delamination of electrodes, thermal runaway etc. Low temperature electrolysers, such as PEMEL and AEL are facing ionomer degradation, passivation of porous transport layers, catalyst dissolution and Ostwald ripening, corrosion of carbon support, bipolar plates, degradation of sealing materials, etc. The coupling of these multi-physics fields, occurring simultaneously at various length scales (atomic, nano, micro, macro), makes it challenging to parameterise individual degradation mechanism, and even more challenging, the effects of their combined occurrence. This is even more complicated when flexible operation is required (in part due to the lack of established testing protocols). The project will also build on the results from on-going and newly supported fuel cell and electrolyser projects, as well as projects addressing sustainability. Long term degradation studies (at least 10,000 hours) should be firstly carried out on stacks (new or used) representative of commercial or pre-commercial technologies for PEMEL/SOEL/AEL stacks and in the second stage, also include stack concepts developed jointly between academic and industrial partners for AEMEL/ PCCEL technologies. Study of ageing mechanisms should address degradation due to evolution of materials, interfaces and microstructures when the cells/stacks are operated under real conditions (e.g. as a function of temperature, load, pressure, overvoltage, etc.), as well as degradation mechanisms associated with exposure to impurities e.g. from airborne contaminants and transient operation and upon dynamic operations (e.g. coupling with RES). The work should provide guidelines for defining new solutions at the cell and/or stack level to increase lifetime, as well as optimal operations of the cells/stacks. The new solutions should be demonstrated at short stack level. Furthermore, the emphasis should be given on defining predictive modelling of state-of-health / state-of-life for given operation, and on establishing operation solutions diminishing degradation.

Advanced materials for hydrogen storage tanks

Code: 27414 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-07-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic focuses on developing advanced materials to reduce whole life costs and produce lighter solutions for hydrogen storage, whilst developing sustainable circular economy-based components and considering the environmental and social impacts. The hydrogen storage emphasised under this topic covers the form of gas, liquid or cryo-compressed states supporting high-pressure tanks even up to 1,000 bar.

This topic aims to develop a step change, supporting key elements of the long-term needs of hydrogen storage, notably:

• Reduction of whole lifetime costs of hydrogen storage technologies;
• Development of environmentally sustainable and circular storage systems;
• Ensuring the safety of innovative hydrogen storage technologies.

Small-scale Hydrogen Valley

Code: 27411 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-06-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of this flagship topic is to develop and demonstrate a small-scale Hydrogen Valley. It could demonstrate a combination of technologies either in existing and/or new markets for clean hydrogen, especially when applications are used in symbiose with each other.

This topic should demonstrate innovative approaches at system level: global and synergetic integration of hydrogen production, distribution and end-uses technologies. It should also seek integration within a broader energy system, considering elements such as renewable energy production, gas and electricity grid, digitalisation, etc. Technologies demonstrated should be state of the art following technology development previously funded by (but not limited to) the JU.

Large-scale Hydrogen Valley

Code: 27403 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-06-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of this flagship topic is to develop and demonstrate a large-scale Hydrogen Valley. It could demonstrate a combination of technologies either in existing and/or new markets for clean hydrogen, especially when applications are used in symbiose with each other.

This topic should demonstrate innovative approaches at system level: global and synergetic integration of hydrogen production, distribution and end-uses technologies. It should also seek integration within a broader energy system, considering elements such as renewable energy production, gas and electricity grid, digitalisation, etc. Technologies demonstrated should be state of the art following technology development previously funded by (but not limited to) the JU.

Pre-Normative Research on the determination of hydrogen releases from the hydrogen value chain

Code: 27399 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-05-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The natural gas industry has for decades been strongly committed to identifying, quantifying, and mitigating gas releases along the entire value chain, from production (extraction) to final uses. In addition, the effects of releases of gases in the environment have been widely studied and assessed, with the aim of limiting the climate-change effects as much as possible.

While methane emissions is a well-known topic, with emission quantification methods/technologies and mitigation strategies defined, the case of hydrogen is different, as there are no indications/guidelines that exhaustively cover all the different elements of the hydrogen value chain. This case requires in-depth analysis, supported by experimental campaigns, in order to understand the potential leakage rates of hydrogen across its value chain and assess the overall hydrogen releases of a large adoption of this energy vector. Proposals should therefore assess the potential hydrogen releases of the future hydrogen value chains.

European Hydrogen Academy

Code: 27393 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-05-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The education focus needs to shift to establishing a large alliance of universities and institutions that can provide certified educational training and continuously update the teaching materials, thus reflecting the rapidly developing area of FCH technologies and actively supplying the education and training necessary. Hydrogen education at schools should be targeted in order to provide FCH technology basics and foster societal awareness and acceptance.

Future work should then concentrate on further developing, translating, and organising the supply and (digital) access to content and training activities at universities, educational institutions and schools and addressing the issue of a joint qualification framework across the EU university ecosystem. For this purpose, solving the issue of portability of e-learning content and its copyright and supporting ease of implementation on any institutional learning management systems is essential. Proposals should show concrete contributions to the Digital Education Action Plan with the aim of greater cooperation at the EU level on digital education and to address the challenges and opportunities of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Product environmental footprint pilot for a set of FCH product categories

Code: 27390 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-05-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic addresses the development and application of a set of thorough PEFCRs in the specific field of FCH products according to the latest version of the European Commission’s guidance document for the development of PEFCRs, thereby considering the latest recommendations as regards the PEF method. Accordingly, the main project outcome of the topic will consist of PEFCRs developed for, and applied to, FCH product categories.

Project results are expected to contribute to the following objectives:

• Strengthening the focus on environmental aspects in the framework of the transition to a circular economy – supplying the necessary assessment tools for decision making. In this regard, the results from this topic should facilitate decision-making processes effectively oriented toward environmental aspects in the FCH sector;
• Reinforcing EU’s leadership position and accelerating mass-market adoption of sustainable FCH products – enhancing the sustainability and circularity of FCH technologies to support the ‘EU Strategy on energy system integration’ and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the objectives of the Paris Agreement. In this sense, this topic should provide a sound basis for the potential identification and subsequent promotion of environmentally sustainable FCH products.

Hydrogen for heat production for hard-to-abate industries (e.g. retrofitted burners, furnaces)

Code: 27386 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-04-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of this topic is to develop and validate an integrated hydrogen burner system within heating furnaces in energy intensive industrial applications by retrofitting existing furnaces so that they are able to run on up to 100% hydrogen. With the aim to contribute to the demonstration and promotion of the use of H2 for thermal use in industries that are hard to abate.

Retrofitting of existing industrial sector natural gas turbomachinery cogeneration systems for hydrogen combustion

Code: 27382 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-04-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

Technological development of gas turbines combustion systems is aimed to handle incremental percentage of hydrogen blended in the natural gas as fuel. A further step, in accelerating the energy sector decarbonisation, is to provide gas turbine solutions able to be used with their own flexibility in handling fast load changes over the wider range of natural gas / hydrogen blends up to the full hydrogen composition.

In parallel with the incremental hydrogen availability offer expected for the next years, the required final TRL 7 is pushing gas turbine technology and products development to the commercialisation phase and the fleet replacement and/or enhancement by the end users by new engine solutions able to provide with hydrogen/natural gas blends, similar performances of the current natural gas ones.

Research on fundamental combustion physics, flame velocity and structure, pathways of emissions formation for hydrogen and variable blends of hydrogen, including ammonia

Code: 27373 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-04-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

Use of natural gas mixtures with high hydrogen content still exhibits high NOx pollutant emissions, thus requiring the implementation of appropriate combustion technologies in new or existing gas turbines, such as DLE, sequential combustion, EGR and micro-mixing approaches. Besides, although recent research has shown that partial decomposition of ammonia (after transportation) to a blend of ammonia/hydrogen/nitrogen can be an interesting solution, many fundamental aspects of ammonia/hydrogen flames are not yet known, and NOx emissions are a concern too. Other potential not well-known hydrogen blends could show similar issues.

Development and validation of high power and impurity tolerant fuel cell systems ready to run on industrial quality dry hydrogen

Code: 27371 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-04-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic aims to bridge the power gap between small stationary and MW installations, by developing and validating a building block in the shape of a renewable hydrogen fuelled fuel cell system (of at least 100 kW), which can be customised for various applications, have a modular design and be impurity tolerant.
The duration of the validation should be at least 5,000 hours.
This building block should be able to operate at any location having access to any renewable hydrogen supply sources underground storage facilities initially used for natural gas storage, natural gas grid enabled to transport hydrogen as well as dedicated hydrogen grid.

Moreover, the durable and flexible (full and partial load) operations of a ≥ 100 kW fuel cell system with industrial quality dry hydrogen (95% pure) should be also explored. The validation should be performed for use case cold ironing or ground power supply at the site, where industrial quality dry hydrogen fuel without blending is available.

Ultra-low NOx combustion system for aviation

Code: 27369 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-03-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of the topic is to develop a direct burn hydrogen combustion system with low NOx emissions compatible with aero engine specifications and progress it up to TRL 4. Because of the specific thermo-physical characteristics of hydrogen (very high flame speed, high diffusivity, high reactivity, high flame temperatures, etc.) there are many technological hurdles to overcome in order to realise a reliable and successful low NOx combustion system.

Development of a large fuel cell stack for maritime applications

Code: 27365 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-03-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

Proposals should cover the development of a high-power stack for maritime applications and should address in particular either PEM or Solid Oxide technologies, which are considered the most promising technologies for maritime sector as already proven by the already funded projects MARANDA, HyShip, FLAGSHIPS, and ShipFC.

A large FC stack for maritime applications should be developed by the end of the project according to either one of the following minimum requirements:

• A PEM stack with nominal power in the range of 250-500 kW at beginning of life and with scalability at system level to several tens of MW;
  or
• A Solid Oxide (SO) stack with nominal power in the range of 100-250 kW at beginning of life and with scalability at system level to tens of MW.

Real environment demonstration of Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM)

Code: 27363 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-03-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic is addressing types of NRMM currently running with an ICE utilising conventional fuels in the construction & mining (excavators, loaders, haulers, bulldozers, etc.) and agricultural & farming (harvesters, cultivators, etc.) sectors.

The scope is to develop and demonstrate mature prototypes of hydrogen FC propelled machinery, operating in a defined end-user ecosystem. Hydrogen should be available on / very close to the work site, for refuelling purposes.

Demonstration of LH2 HRS for Heavy Duty applications

Code: 27361 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-02-05 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The topic aims to develop and demonstrate the technological foundations of large LH2 refueling stations for heavy-duty transport sectors such as aviation, shipping and railways, and thereby address and overcome the challenges that remain in their development. Demonstration of a large, high-efficiency hydrogen refueling station would have an impact on other SRIA roadmaps related to liquid hydrogen (transportation, storage, aviation end-use, etc.).

The subject of this topic is the development, construction and operation of a liquid hydrogen refueling station that should demonstrate a delivery rate of at least 5 tons per hour.
The LH2 HRS:

• it should demonstrate scalability with technical and financial improvements
• it should be able to reduce the energy consumption and specific cost of hydrogen to prepare for the widespread deployment of hydrogen for the benefit of heavy-duty transport and its zero-emission ecosystem.

Demonstration of high pressure (500-700 bar) supply chain

Code: 27359 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-02-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

It is of the utmost importance to improve the Gaseous Hydrogen (GH2) logistic. From a current 200 bar transportation pressure, the industry needs to move to higher pressure to increase the payload and decrease significantly the cost of transportation. It means to demonstrate the full logistic chain from the filling centre phase (to load the trailers at high pressure), through the trailers rolling on the road to the HRS able to feed the final vehicle.

This higher pressure GH2 logistic is timely needed to prepare for the deployment of heavy-duty vehicles (as trucks or trains) and corresponding infrastructure (HRS with high quantities of GH2 delivered), the increase of industrial needs of GH2 and ultimately to reduce the TCO of an extensive HRS network in Europe. Proposals submitted in this topic should demonstrate the entire concept of filling centre, trailer fleet and HRS, in complementarity/synergy with the previous two topics supported already in AWP2022.

Novel insulation concepts for LH2 storage tanks

Code: 27354 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-02-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of this topic is to develop and validate novel insulation concepts for storage of liquid hydrogen. The concepts developed should be suitable for a later scale-up to dimension similar to LNG storage tanks for shipping and or onshore storage.

Pre-Normative Research about the compatibility of transmission gas grid steels with hydrogen and development of mitigation techniques

Code: 27351 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-02-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic is aimed at accelerating the deployment of a safe, flexible, and efficient hydrogen grid by repurposing part of the gas networks, as this solution is expected to be particularly cost-effective compared to the development of new pipes.

The project should focus on specific critical issues that are insufficiently covered by existing publicly available knowledge, like hydrogen embrittlement in pipe and girth welds and heat affected zones (HAZ), Fatigue Crack Growth mechanisms and update of criteria for assessment of flaws. Modern new steel grades likely to meet the deployment needs of H2 networks should also be investigated (allowing connections of hydrogen producers and consumers to repurposed grids).

This project should cover steel grades constitutive of the gas Transmission networks, that are particularly sensitive to hydrogen embrittlement due to some high strength grades, high service pressure and potentially impacting pressure cycling.

Large-scale demonstration of underground hydrogen storage

Code: 27349 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-02-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The aim of this flagship topic is to demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of large-scale underground hydrogen storage to provide the flexibility to manage the imbalance between intermittent supply from renewables and variability in demand in an integrated electricity-hydrogen energy system, and to qualify all technologies and their components in an integrated storage system by demonstrating large-scale hydrogen (energy) storage in underground salt caverns and/or gas fields and/or other geological structures, which are located in many places across EU.

This flagship topic aims at integrating the innovation brought by large-scale underground storage to the whole value chain, to better understand how renewable hydrogen can be supplied continuously to industrial, mobility and other end-uses, while allowing production to be intermittent (daily or seasonally) due to renewable electricity supply. To this effect, large-scale underground storage will contribute to limiting the curtailment of renewable electricity and optimise the whole value chain to make energy more sustainable, more secure and more affordable for hydrogen consumers.

Hydrogen use by an industrial cluster via a local pipeline network

Code: 27346 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-07 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This flagship topic involves installing a large electrolyser and a new or repurposed 100% hydrogen pipeline network of sufficient transport capacity to fully or partially decarbonise at least two industrial processes that are located within a single industrial zone, either inland or in coastal areas.

The action is open to any type of hydrogen end use and any combination of off-takers in the local area (including chemical processes, co-generation systems, hydrogen gas turbines and any technology that combusts hydrogen or hydrogen/natural gas blends). Where appropriate as a secondary application, it may also provide hydrogen for vehicle.

Valorisation of by-product O2 and/or heat from electrolysis

Code: 27344 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-06 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

Utilisation of the by-product oxygen as well as simplification of the balance-of-plant through integration into the downstream process can improve the economics and the total cost of ownership of the electrolyser.

This flagship topic should focus on improving efficiency of the electrolyser system as well reducing the footprint by optimising the electrolyser system-downstream process integration. Furthermore, the project should give insight into the effect of this integration on electrolyser degradation phenomena compared to a standard electrolysis system, if applicable.

Waste to Hydrogen demonstration plant

Code: 27336 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-05 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of this flagship topic is to develop and demonstrate a pilot plant processing wastes and converting them into hydrogen. Different conversion processes maybe be considered, involving for example, but not limited to, gasification, pyrolysis, plasma supported, electrochemical processes, steam gasification, including multistage processes and related reactors.

Proposals should focus on wastes without any direct recycling potential and on the production of sustainable, renewable hydrogen (in line with the requirements of the EC proposal for the revision of RED II).

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) and/or Photocatalytic (PC) production of hydrogen

Code: 27333 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-04 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The scope of this topic should address the lack of industrially relevant photo-chemical reactor, offering advantages in terms of land-use, simplified system layouts and lower cost. The use of flow conditions is particularly relevant for PC systems, that are often tested in custom batch-type lab reactors without internationally acknowledged measurements protocol and standards. Consequently, projects are expected to validate novel STH conversion reactors in relevant environments. To this extent, monolithic or highly integrated photochemical devices should be developed, while simple electrical connection between photovoltaic cells and electrolysers or PV biased PEC configurations are not in the scope of this topic.

Furthermore, the scope of this action is to validate novel photo-active materials of at least 5% – for PC – and above 15% – for PEC – STH efficiencies. To achieve such goal, proposals are expected to pursue strategies that aim to improve both light harvesting and catalytic properties, namely core/shell or hybrid nanomaterial synthesis, materials showing plasmonic effects or selective photo(electro)catalyst for alternative oxidative reactions beyond water oxidation.

Advances in alkaline electrolysis technology

Code: 27331 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-03 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic aims at advancing AEL technology by improving performances and reducing costs.
AEL technology, despite the high maturity of the proposed market solutions, can be improved in order to keep the EU electrolyser industry at the forefront and to support the achievement of the EU performance and cost targets, widening the range of applications where renewable hydrogen produced by AEL could be deployed to support decarbonisation efforts. Anyway, improved performances and solutions will add margins to this target and a better satisfaction of the specific challenge.

The topic aims to facilitate the integration of innovative lab scale developments in the alkaline electrolysis technologies landscape into pilot industrial scale systems for their validation and further escalation into industrial MW scale systems.

Innovative Solid Oxide electrolysis cells for intermediate temperature hydrogen production

Code: 27328 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-02 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

The topic focuses on the development of new cell and stack designs, aiming at the replacement of costly ceramic-based components and reduction of critical raw materials (e.g. light and heavy rare earth materials, LREE and HREE), and use of lower cost steels. Improved thermal and load cycling capabilities (faster and higher number of thermal cycles) should be ensured by designing new cells and/or stacks based on e.g. metal supported cells/stacks, cells with integrated interconnect/current collector/electrode and/or metal-based monolith cells/stacks and/or intrinsically more robust cell/stack design/assembly. The stack volume should be reduced compared to state-of-the-art stacks, by 15%. This can be sought by nano-engineering and/or self-assembly of interfaces, integrating several functionalities in single components and/or by developing thinner layers that can also contribute to reduce ohmic losses.

The new sustainable-by-design electrolysers will operate at temperature below 700°C to minimise thermally induced degradation and facilitate direct coupling with renewable sources.

Innovative electrolysis cells for hydrogen production

Code: 27326 | Identifier Code: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-01-01 | Programme name: Clean Hydrogen JOINT UNDERTAKING (Clean Hydrogen JU) | Start submission calls: 31/01/2023 | End submission calls: 18/04/2023

This topic aims at the development of new and disruptive cell concepts for improving efficiency, lifetime, and hydrogen production processes in the field of water electrolysis, while replacing costly materials on components of the cell and stack. The topic seeks the integration of recent advances in materials science and modern characterisation/fabrication tools, merged into innovative lab scale developments of components of electrolysis cells. The target is to realise at least single cells of TRL 4 and validate all innovative approaches using single cells and short stacks with min. 5 cells.