H2U – Sustainable and inclusive hydrogen energy for Ukraine’s recovery

Short summary/preview of project:

Green hydrogen has significant potential to address future global energy needs. As Ukraine pushes ahead with renewable energy adoption, the country could be at the forefront of a new green hydrogen market that offers a promising solution for both clean energy production and its economic recovery. 

The H2U project shows how this is possible. 

The solution: Advanced green hydrogen production and storage for sustainable energy and economic growth

The H2U project is taking the first steps in technical adoption towards making Ukraine one of the key potential hydrogen producing countries in Europe. Its technology can provide clean energy for Ukraine’s recovery, enhancing energy resilience and reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels.

• Created through a cross-border partnership of entrepreneurs, H2U leverages cutting-edge electrolysis technology combined with renewable energy sources to produce green hydrogen, green ammonia, and green methanol.
• The project proposes a 100 MW electrolysis plant with 120 MW solar and 80 MW wind power in the Odesa region, producing 21,456 tons/year of hydrogen, 120,800 tons of green ammonia or 83,064 tons of green methanol.
• The system aims to operate the electrolysis plant for 3,600 hours/year, optimising energy use and production efficiency.
• This technology will be implemented at a pilot site in the Odesa region and holds significant export potential for the European hydrogen market, as well as the emerging Ukrainian green ammonia and green methanol markets. It will contribute to a new wave of energy security and innovation for both Ukraine and Europe, fostering cross-border cooperation and advancing the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

Potential impact

This project can significantly aid a sustainable, green recovery for Ukraine that benefits the economy and local communities:

• It can contribute to lower natural gas dependency, strengthening Ukraine’s energy security.
• The project is expected to create between 112 and 145 jobs, depending on the selected production option (green hydrogen, ammonia, or methanol), significantly exceeding the initial estimate of 45 positions. These roles will cover administration, production, logistics, and safety, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance of key infrastructure. Workforce needs are projected to increase by 150-220%, with further job creation anticipated in transportation, logistics, and renewable energy integration as the project advances.
• Stable clean energy supply from green hydrogen enables businesses to operate sustainably, boosting local economies.
• It is a scalable technology that can be expanded across Ukraine and potentially exported to the European market.
• This project leads to new job opportunities and skills growth for Ukraine people in innovative energy tech, particularly focusing on women, internally displaced persons, and disabled individuals.
• The project focuses on developing underground hydrogen storage in saline formations, setting new standards for hydrogen storage and transportation in Ukraine.
• The partners involved in the project will more broadly enhance Ukraine’s capabilities in green hydrogen production, storage, and project planning.

The project team

• AB5 Consulting (Administrative Lead, UK)
• Hydrogen Ukraine (Technical Lead, Ukraine)
• Executive Committee Reni City Council, Odesa region (Advisory Partner)