The Hydrogen Ecosystem Economic Strengthening scheme is designed for public and private entities in Nouvelle-Aquitaine looking to invest in hydrogen mobility solutions. This initiative focuses on heavy road and maritime mobility, providing financial support for vehicles that meet specific operational criteria. Eligible projects can significantly contribute to the region’s decarbonization efforts while enhancing the economic viability of hydrogen distribution and production.
Objectives
This scheme aims to bolster mature hydrogen ecosystems by attracting additional users, achieving economic balance for hydrogen distribution or production projects, and fostering the development of relevant hydrogen applications. By supporting investments in heavy mobility, it seeks to drive the adoption of hydrogen as a viable alternative to traditional fuels in various sectors.
Beneficiaries
Eligible beneficiaries include both public and private entities involved in hydrogen mobility projects. Individuals are not eligible. Key criteria for eligible vehicles include:
- Significant payload capacity
- Long-distance travel requirements
- Constrained refueling or recharging times
- Other specific operational constraints where hydrogen can provide a solution.
Eligible operations
The scheme primarily targets investments in:
- Heavy or intensive mobility for professionals and local authorities in road and maritime sectors, including:
- Land transport of goods (trucks, waste collection vehicles)
- Land transport of passengers (buses, coaches)
- Maritime transport of passengers and goods
- Agricultural and fishing vessels
- Logistics transport and operation of heavy machinery (forklifts, cranes)
- Power supply for isolated equipment not served by the electrical grid.
Eligibility conditions
Key selection criteria include:
- Relevance of hydrogen compared to other decarbonization solutions
- Environmental performance metrics (greenhouse gas emissions reduction)
- Economic model analysis (Total Cost of Ownership)
- Project maturity and reliability (financial solvency, deployment schedule)
- Geographic relevance, ensuring use aligns with local hydrogen infrastructure.
Grant amount
Financial support is based on the additional costs of vehicle purchases or leases compared to conventional vehicles. Aid rates will adhere to existing regulations and frameworks for environmental protection and R&D aid for the 2024-2026 period. Specific amounts are not detailed in the current documentation.
Can I apply for this scheme if my company is not based in Nouvelle-Aquitaine?
No, eligible projects must be based in Nouvelle-Aquitaine and utilize local hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
What types of vehicles are eligible for funding?
Eligible vehicles include those designed for heavy or intensive mobility, such as trucks, buses, and maritime vessels, meeting specific operational criteria.
How can I determine the environmental performance of my project?
You will need to provide quantified data on greenhouse gas emissions reductions and energy consumption compared to traditional solutions.
What is the application process for this funding?
Applications must be submitted electronically with a complete dossier, including a preliminary request form and detailed project descriptions.