Hydrogen Corridor for the Pyrenees Region (H2PiyR)
About this good practice
The H2PiyR is a demonstrative project whose objective is to conect the Pirynees regions of Spain and France through hydrogen refuelling infrastructure with central and northern Europe.
To this end, four topics were analysed: the existing types of HRS, two types of electrolysis for on-site generation (alkaline and PEM), the possibility of supplying these electrolysers with renewable energy, and finally, the deployment of two HRS in Huesca (Spain) and Pamiers (France). Two hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles and ten hydrogen fuel cell electric bicycles are being refuelled in both HRS.
H2PiyR adopted a working methodology with the aim of achieving its introduction in the regions concerned and ensuring its continuity in the short term. Firstly, in the planning phase, the project carried out an exhaustive process of analysis of constraints that represent a barrier or, on the contrary, offer an opportunity in the H2PiyR regions and that affect the construction of HRS. Secondly, the construction of the HRS was launched off. Finally, the demonstration and implementation of HRS and hydrogen vehicles was carried out.
The impact of the project has been quantified environmentally and socio-economically.
The main stakeholders and beneficiaries of this project were entities of the regions involved, who adquired experience in hydrogen infraestructure, as well as the regions themselves, that got their first HRS and hydrogen vehicles deployed.
Resources needed
The total budget for the H2PiyR project was 1.6 million euros, of which the European regional Development Fund (ERDF) contributed 0.9 million euros through the POCTEFA (Spain-France-Andorra Interreg cooperation program).
Evidence of success
Two HRS have been deployed in both regions of the Pyrenees. Two fuel cell vehicles and ten bicycles are in operation, being refuelled at both HRS.
A methodology has been validated for a demonstrative project in the field of hydrogen mobility infrastructures. The demonstrative character of the project has allowed the dissemination of hydrogen technologies know-how in the regions. Relevant public deliverables allow measuring the success of the project and disseminating leassons learnt.
Potential for learning or transfer
H2PiyR is a successfully implemented project that can serve as a model to develop or increase the hydrogen infrastructure and mobility in other regions. The methodology, results and lessons learnt from H2PiyR can be transferred to other regions which are in an initial phase of deployment of HRS infrastructure, or even in a higher penetration phase. The technical validation results can serve as a starting point for decision making in HRS deployment projects. Furthermore, the impact reports provide a basis for learning about the type of mobility, its technical feasibility and its positive environmental impact.
A second phase of the project will be defined, with the objective of extending the HRS network, and concrete studies on the extrapolation of the results to other EU regions will be carried out.