GAZ-SYSTEM plans to implement three hydrogen projects

As GAZ-SYSTEM reports, the new TEN-E regulation provides for the possibility of granting PCI (Projects of Common Interest) status to investments enabling the emergence of integrated European hydrogen infrastructure through the implementation of hydrogen transmission and storage projects and facilities for the reception and regasification of liquefied hydrogen or hydrogen carried in other chemicals (e.g., ammonia).

Three projects planned

Work is currently underway to develop the first hydrogen PCI list. GAZ-SYSTEM has applied for priority status for three projects planned by the company. They include:

• Nordic-Baltic Hydrogen Corridor, which aims to build a corridor to transport hydrogen from Finland, through the Baltic States and Poland to Germany.
• A national hydrogen backbone, including infrastructure connecting domestic hydrogen producers, import sources. 
• Damaslawek hydrogen storage facility with end users and possibly local distribution networks.

- The infrastructure projects implemented by GAZ-SYSTEM are a priority energy priority for EU countries, as they ensure the diversification of gas supply and the development of an integrated and competitive natural gas market in Central Europe and the Baltic Sea region. EU financial support is important for the smooth implementation of complex international projects, which is why we have applied for PCI status for the hydrogen investments the company plans to carry out," said Marcin Chludzinski, CEO of GAZ-SYSTEM.

Amendment of the TEN-E regulation

In June 2022, an amendment to the TEN-E Regulation came into force, which established new EU rules for cross-border energy infrastructure. They are aimed at accelerating efforts to decarbonize and integrate cross-border energy infrastructure to help EU countries meet their 2050 climate goals. The new TEN-E Regulation maintains the existing provisions to help timely implementation of cross-border infrastructure through solutions that simplify and speed up procedures for issuing necessary permits, as well as providing for the possibility of applying for CEF funding for PCI projects.

As stipulated in the earlier TEN-E regulation, which is valid until mid-2022, Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) are investments that are crucial to the implementation of European energy and climate policy. Among the most important of these are affordable, secure and sustainable energy for all citizens, as well as building a low-carbon economy in the EU.

These projects must also contribute to the implementation of priority energy infrastructure corridors, as well as significantly improve security of supply, market integration and competition. PCI projects can benefit from best practices under the TEN-E regulation, which means, among other things, that they can benefit from an expedited permitting process. If certain conditions are met, PCI status also makes it possible to apply for funding under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).