Energy Groups Have Urged EU Hydrogen Rule Changes
Dozens of associations requested a revision to production criteria to accelerate the hydrogen market ramp-up.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Energy
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Around two dozen European energy associations signed a joint letter urging the European Commission to revise Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1184. The group claims current rules endanger investments along the hydrogen value chain and has requested specific regulatory adjustments.
Why it matters
The requested changes aim to resolve regulatory uncertainty that stakeholders argue has slowed the expected hydrogen market ramp-up. Stakeholders believe these adjustments are necessary to safeguard long-term project investments.
The proposal includes lowering the bidding zone renewable electricity threshold from 90 percent to 80 percent and delaying full additionality criteria until 2035. Associations also advocate for maintaining monthly rather than hourly temporal correlation.
The players
European Commission
This is the executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation and implementing decisions.
BDI
The Federation of German Industries is the primary umbrella organization representing German industrial companies.
BDEW
The German Association of Energy and Water Industries represents companies involved in the energy and water supply sectors.
VDA
The German Association of the Automotive Industry advocates for the interests of the country's automotive manufacturers and suppliers.
VCI
The German Chemical Industry Association represents the economic and political interests of chemical companies operating in Germany.
The details
Signatories, including the BDI, BDEW, VKU, VDA, and VCI, are providing technical expertise to assist the Commission in streamlining production criteria for renewable fuels of non-biological origin. The associations hope the finalized revision proposal will be released before the end of the year to stabilize the investment climate.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: Associations sent a joint letter to the EU Commission.
September 2026: Associations requested a clear timeline for the revision.
Before end of 2026: Target date for the publication of the final revision proposal.
2035: Requested deadline for the application of full additionality criteria.
The Big Picture
The proposed revisions mark a direct challenge to the strict enforcement mechanisms outlined in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1184. This move suggests a paradigm shift where industry leaders are prioritizing immediate market feasibility over the initial, more rigid sustainability criteria.
If adopted, these changes could lower the cost of hydrogen production and accelerate the availability of renewable fuels for heavy industry and transport. A more flexible regulatory environment may lead to faster deployment of hydrogen-based infrastructure and consumer-facing technology.
The takeaway
Industry leaders are currently pushing for a more pragmatic regulatory approach to avoid stalling the growth of the green hydrogen sector. Investors and energy consumers should monitor upcoming Commission decisions as they will set the tone for regional renewable fuel availability.
Further reading
For more background on regional power development, visit our Energy section.
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Should the EU prioritize easier production rules to boost renewable hydrogen investment?
