Green Innovations in Hydrogen for Sustainable Energy Transition
The first Centre of Excellence in clean hydrogen technologies in Bulgaria and Southeastern Europe
H2START: Building Bulgaria’s Hydrogen Future
Clean hydrogen technology is critical for Europe’s sustainable transition. It unlocks markets and solutions for energy security, climate change mitigation, and economic revitalization. H2START is addressing the urgent need for rapid hydrogen adoption across Southeastern Europe.
The H2START project is establishing a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, spearheading innovative renewable hydrogen technologies crucial for the region’s shift towards clean energy. We aim to position Bulgaria as a leader in hydrogen-based sustainable solutions by creating a new research and innovation ecosystem that stimulates “brain gain,” advances cross-cutting activities, and supports industry through beyond-the-state-of-the-art infrastructure.
H2START offers researchers a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art facilities, strategic partnerships, and international mobility across academia and industry.
We educate, attract, retain, and empower the next generation of hydrogen leaders.
Clean hydrogen technology is pivotal for industrial competitiveness and empowers businesses to reduce emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and strengthen global competitiveness.
We are building seven cutting-edge labs, including hydrogen testing facilities with industry input. Take our quick industry survey and tell us what matters most for your business!
Europe needs clean hydrogen to achieve its goals of climate neutrality and energy independence.
H2START actively supports national and EU policies aimed at fostering a robust hydrogen market and promoting the growth of a sustainable and clean hydrogen economy.
By cutting emissions and creating new jobs, clean hydrogen fosters healthier communities, a stronger economy, and a more resilient energy future. H2START empowers communities in transition by facilitating clean hydrogen solutions for economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability, while also providing diverse training and education and serving as a blueprint for similar regions.
H2START in numbers
Stakeholders across the EU and world-renowned advisors in hydrogen R&I
Start: January 2025
End: December 2030
Core Objectives
Develop new type of R&I management and administrative ecosystem
Develop and implement own Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda
Equip with top-class equipment to drive cutting-edge research
Introduce Human Resources Strategy and Rules for “Brain Gain”
Enhance Bulgaria’s scientific intensity and quality to international levels
Advance Cross-cutting activities in key areas
Partners
Trakia University
ISTD Division Hydrogen Technologies since 2021
4 Horizon Europe projects on Hydrogen
First research group on Hydrogen & Fuel Cells: National Project for “Research Universities”
Bulgarian Hydrogen, Fuel Cell and Energy Storage Association
Member of Clean Hydrogen Alliance
Member of the Implementation Working Group towards the SET Plan
Mission: Join the efforts of science, industry and policy makers towards the accelerated advancement of hydrogen technologies in Bulgaria and the region