H2START H2START

Green Innovations in Hydrogen for Sustainable Energy Transition

The first Centre of Excellence in clean hydrogen technologies in Bulgaria and Southeastern Europe

H2START attracts and educates the next generation of hydrogen leaders

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 will build, empower, and equip
Research & Education Industry & Impact Policy Support Quality of Life

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.

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H2START in numbers

1
Partners
2 institutions from Bulgaria and 2 advanced partners from Italy

Stakeholders across the EU and world-renowned advisors in hydrogen R&I
1
Months
Six-year project duration

Start: January 2025
End: December 2030
3
Million €
Funded by the European Union under Horizon Europe (Project H2START 101136692)
1
% Focus
Dedicated to advancing cutting-edge hydrogen technologies and facilitating the transition to a sustainable, hydrogen-powered future
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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

H2START
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