The Ministry of Environment and Energy is taking a series of steps to develop critical technologies for the green transition, such as renewable gases and hydrogen.

In particular, the development of the regulatory framework for hydrogen and biomethane is being finalized and is expected to be put out to public consultation in the next few months. At the same time, the industry support mechanism for renewable gas plants has reportedly been sent to the European Commission, providing for aid of €350 million.

HYDROGEN

As noted by Aristotelis Aivaliotis, Secretary General of Energy and Mineral Resources at the Ministry, the strategy for the development of the hydrogen market will be measured, targeting storage development and exports, and will provide for subsidies in order to start production.

INVESTMENTS

As Aivaliotis pointed out, currently the green hydrogen market is zero. He stressed, however, that there are investment projects for the production of hydrogen from refineries, which are planned to be subsidized, and cited as examples the €100 million investment, part of which concerns Motor Oil's projects at its refinery, hydrogen buses and a limited amount of hydrogen to be produced by Hellenic Hydrogen in Western Macedonia.

EXPORT

Particular emphasis was placed on international cooperation, with reference to Greece's negotiations with Germany on possible hydrogen exports. "Germany is seeking an agreement with Greece as it believes we can produce hydrogen at a lower cost," he said, stressing that hydrogen production in Germany is more expensive compared to Greece's capabilities.

BIOCHEMICALS

Aivaliotis discussed the role of biofuels and methane in the transition to a sustainable energy mix. He highlighted the development of synthetic fuels (SUP—Synthetic Fuels), stressing that they are a viable solution without the need for government subsidies, given that the European Commission and IATA have already adopted regulations to support them. "Our goal is to create two production units in the country, contributing to the development of the new generation of aviation fuels, which will significantly boost the Greek economy," he said.

Regarding methane, he stressed its importance as an energy source, noting that strategic planning is needed for its effective management. At the same time, he said that Greece must adopt innovative technologies that will allow its more efficient use while limiting greenhouse gas emissions.