28 October 2026
European Commission launches consultation to shape a renewed EU Hydrogen Strategy
On 26 October 2026, the European Commission launched a targeted consultation to support the development of a renewed EU Hydrogen Strategy, aiming to accelerate the deployment of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen across Europe. Building on the original European Hydrogen Strategy adopted in 2020, the initiative responds to slower-than-expected market development, limited operational production capacity and persistent challenges in bringing hydrogen projects to investment maturity. The renewed strategy will focus on strengthening Europe's hydrogen market, stimulating domestic hydrogen production, facilitating hydrogen imports and addressing barriers to the uptake of hydrogen and its derivatives. Particular attention will be given to hydrogen's role in decarbonising hard-to-abate industrial sectors where direct electrification is technically challenging or economically uncompetitive. The initiative also aims to support the implementation of EU renewable energy targets, strengthen energy security, safeguard Europe's strategic autonomy and ensure fair competition in the global hydrogen market. The Commission is inviting input from hydrogen producers, industrial consumers, infrastructure operators, technology providers, policymakers and other stakeholders to identify regulatory, economic and market barriers that continue to hinder hydrogen deployment. The consultation remains open until 23 November 2026, providing stakeholders with an opportunity to influence the future European policy framework and contribute to the development of a competitive, resilient and sustainable hydrogen economy.