What is hydrogen, and why could it play a crucial role in the future energy mix?
Hydrogen is not an energy source but an energy carrier: although it is the most abundant element in the universe, it is not found in a free state on Earth and requires significant energy to be produced. Currently, 95% of hydrogen comes from fossil fuels, while “green” hydrogen – produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy – represents a key resource for decarbonising sectors where direct electrification is not possible, as well as for seasonal energy storage.
The H2READY project aims to bridge the gap between large-scale cross-border strategies and the concrete needs of local communities. The initiative operates along two complementary lines: on the one hand, it focuses on targeted training for municipal technicians and policymakers, providing them with the essential skills needed to manage this complex technology. On the other hand, Strategic Action Plans will be developed together with municipalities to map and assess the real hydrogen-related potential of their territories.
Through rigorous analysis, the project will identify suitable areas for hydrogen production and consumption sectors where electrification is not feasible (the so-called hard-to-abate sectors), thus avoiding inefficient use of resources. This planning effort will allow territories to actively and consciously integrate into the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley (NAHV), contributing to the creation of a coordinated energy ecosystem between Friuli Venezia Giulia, Veneto and Slovenia.
The search for pilot municipalities is now complete and the team is ready: Gemona del Friuli, Sacile, San Vito al Tagliamento, Savogna d'Isonzo, Valvasone Arzene, and the SECAB cluster (Treppo Ligosullo, Sutrio, Paluzza, Ravascletto, Cercivento) in Italy,; Mestna občina Nova Gorica, Mestna občina Koper, Občina Ajdovščina and Občina Ilirska Bistrica in Slovenia officially join H2READY. The operational challenge now begins: designing the future of hydrogen at territorial level and turning potential into a concrete and shared strategy.
