1 April 2026
European Hydrogen Regulatory Forum convenes key stakeholders to discuss hydrogen market development and regulation in Europe
The first European Hydrogen Regulatory Forum was organised by the European Commission in Rotterdam on March 19-20, hosted by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate in coordination with the Dutch energy regulator. The most important topics discussed were the RFNBO Delegated Act, the REDIII Transport and Industry transposition and the transposition of the Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Markets package as well as the first developments in the market design in the different EU countries. Topical speaking slots were provided to Member States and European sector organisations.
In Belgium, the energy regulator CREG proposes a system of ‘negotiated access’ for hydrogen terminals in the ports. Under this system, the terminal operator sets prices and conditions in consultation with customers, while access should be granted to all. This is in contrast with LNG, which is highly regulated, with CREG setting uniform tariffs and closely monitoring the conditions. Besides, the CREG provided insights into the Transmission Market Model study and the 1st hydrogen network development plan for Belgium.
The Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy provided their perspective on the future course for EU hydrogen policy, stressing the importance of adjusting the RFNBO Delegated Act, demand creating and lead markets development and imports.
The need for relaxing the RFNBO Delegated Act was urged by industrial stakeholders, Member States and sector organisations.