Greece is making significant strides in developing its hydrogen infrastructure and Europe, being a net importer of hydrogen, will encounter numerous challenges in terms of routing and supply, according to Agis Digkas, Business Development Expert at the Greek company DESFA.

“Although hydrogen is a gaseous product, it presents very different supply chain challenges compared to natural gas. However, many opportunities for cooperation will arise. Both Romania and Greece have abundant renewable resources, which can facilitate hydrogen production,” Digkas said at the round table “Regional Approach Athens – Cooperation”, organized by Energynomics.

In Greece, both demand and supply are expected to reach 40 GWh per day by 2035, and the government aims for Greece to become the first green energy exporter, prompting DESFA to spearhead the establishment of a hydrogen infrastructure in the country.

The first step involves blending hydrogen and natural gas into the existing system and enabling hydrogen supply to customers. Additionally, all pipelines currently under construction are designed to be hydrogen-ready.

The second phase entails the construction of a new 540-kilometer pipeline exclusively for hydrogen transport. This project, with a budget of one billion euros, will connect southern Greece to Bulgaria. The final phase will see the establishment of a comprehensive hydrogen network to serve various customer needs.

DOWNLOAD THE PRESENTATION OF AGIS DIGKAS

“Cooperation will play a crucial role in creating the market,” emphasized Digkas. “We face a dilemma: should we prioritize building the market or the network? We believe both are necessary, but giving the network a head start is essential.”

The working table “Regional Approach Athens – Cooperation” was organized by Energynomics with the support of our partners: Elektra Renewable Support, Kawasaki Gas Turbine Europe GmbH, Parapet GmbH, TUV Nord, WALDEVAR Energy.