Industrial companies in Denmark urge government to reconsider weak hydrogen quotas

Industry association Hydrogen Denmark and some of its members are criticising a legislative proposal that would incorporate EU targets for the minimum share of hydrogen in transport into Danish law, and have urged the government to reconsider its proposal. The international news outlet Argus reported.

Companies developing hydrogen projects in Denmark, including Everfuel, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, European Energy and fuel producer Crossbridge Energy, have signed an open letter calling on the government to reconsider its targets for the minimum share of hydrogen in transport. They say the target lacks ambition and is too low to significantly stimulate demand for the fuel and help put the country on course to become an exporter of “green” energy.

According to published information, the draft legislation requires Danish fuel suppliers to provide the transport sector with just 1% renewable hydrogen and its derivatives in 2030. This is the minimum level required by Brussels.

A higher target for 2030 and the introduction of interim targets

Hydrogen Denmark has called on the government to aim above the minimum required share and follow the example of other member states, such as Finland, with a 4% share. It also wants quotas with gradual annual increases to be introduced, ideally from as early as 2026, to support pilot projects and help build the experience needed to meet the 2030 target.

Denmark originally planned to approve the proposed legislation by 21 May, the latest possible deadline set by the revised European Renewable Energy Directive, known as RED III. However, following pressure from industry, changes may be made, potentially causing delays.