EU backs hydrogen infrastructure in cross-border energy push

In a major European Commission initiative to boost energy interconnectivity, EU leaders have designated 235 cross-border Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) and Projects of Mutual Interest (PMIs) that will be fast-tracked for financing, streamlined permitting, and implementation, as part of efforts to decarbonise and modernise Europe’s energy system. A significant share of these selected projects - 100 of them - focus specifically on hydrogen and electrolyser infrastructure to integrate and expand renewable and low-carbon hydrogen production, storage and transport across the continent, underscoring the strategic role hydrogen plays in advancing the EU’s climate goals, strengthening energy security and supporting the transition away from fossil fuels by 2050. This investment priority reflects broader EU policy ambitions to scale up hydrogen’s contribution to the energy mix and decarbonise sectors where electrification alone isn’t enough, such as heavy industry and transport.  

Out of the total 100 PCIs/PMIs in 2025, 55 are newly added, while 20 have lost their PCI status. Belgium plays a strategic role in this hydrogen build-out, with three newly listed projects:  

• the Ammonia Reception Facility Antwerp at the Vopak Energy Park (VEPA), strengthening hydrogen and ammonia import capacity:

• A hydrogen interconnector between Belgium and the United Kingdom, enhancing cross-border hydrogen trade and security of supply 

• The CHYMIA electrolyser, supporting domestic renewable hydrogen production.  

In addition, Belgium is linked to the Hy4Link project, an internal hydrogen pipeline connecting Luxembourg to the Belgian border, further integrating regional hydrogen networks. Together, these projects underline Belgium’s position as a hydrogen hub and highlight the EU’s commitment to accelerating a connected, resilient and climate-neutral hydrogen economy. 
 
Projects recognised by the EU as PCIs and PMIs benefit from several advantages, such as: 

• Priority status and streamlined permit granting procedures (a binding three-and-a-half year time limit)

• Eligibility to apply for financial assistance under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) in the form of grants for studies and works

Read more and consult the list of PCIs and PMIs.