The IPCEI Hydrogen 4 Fund, also known as Hy2Move, provides new funding to foster the development of the hydrogen sector. In particular, the contributions foreseen at European level amount to EUR 1.4 billion, with the aim of promoting innovative projects for the use of hydrogen in mobility and transport.
In Italy, the funds available for the implementation of IPCEI Hydrogen 4 amount to over EUR 22 million. On 19 September 2024, the Minister of Enterprise and the Made in Italy (Mimit) signed the decree for its activation, which represents a concrete commitment towards the development of sustainable technologies for the achievement of European decarbonisation objectives.
Specifically, in implementation of the ministerial decree of 3 July 2024, this measure establishes the modalities and terms for the submission of facilitation applications for IPCEI Hydrogen 4. It also defines the forms and procedures necessary to start the process of granting and disbursing the subsidies.
The objective of the IPCEI Hydrogen 4 Fund
The IPCEI Hydrogen 4 is an important part of the European plan to create a complete hydrogen value chain for sustainable mobility. Indeed, through this new funding, Hy2Move aims to stimulate the development of new hydrogen-related technologies for the transport sector, with a focus on projects concerning:
- high-performance fuel cells
- new generation on-board storage solutions
- refuelling stations
Projects eligible for Hy2Move Fund subsidies
As far as Italy is concerned, only projects of companies selected after a previous expression of interest are eligible for the Hy2Move 4 (H2 Move) facilities.
In particular, projects able to contribute to the development of innovative technologies for the use of hydrogen in industrial and urban contexts, with a focus on sustainability, are considered.
These initiatives include the development of hydrogen vehicles, refuelling stations and energy management systems for mobility.
Procedure and deadlines for accessing the IPCEI Hydrogen 4 Fund
The procedure for accessing IPCEI Hydrogen 4 funds is described in detail in the Decree of 19 September 2024. In particular, interested companies must submit their application through a dedicated IT platform.
As far as the timing is concerned, the Mimit decree prescribes that ‘the application for access to the facilities must be submitted from 8 October 2024 and no later than 6 December 2024, in the manner indicated on the page of the Ministry’s website dedicated to IPCEI Hydrogen 4’.
Requirements and modalities for the disbursement of funds
Companies receiving funding must comply with strict reporting requirements in order to access the funds.
First of all, subsidies are only granted upon completion of the preliminary investigation and eligibility checks required by the decree.
In addition, it is necessary to prove that the realised project complies with the authorised project portfolio and meets the environmental objectives set out in the decree.
Among the prerequisites for access to funding is the punctual adherence to the deadlines set for the design and realisation of the project.
With regard to the way the funds are disbursed, it is possible to receive an initial contribution by way of an advance for an amount not exceeding 30% of the total facilities granted.
The balance is then paid out on the basis of expenses actually incurred and properly accounted for.
Simplifhy’s contribution for accessing Hy2Move Fund grants
As a solution provider specialised in hydrogen-related technologies, Simplifhy is able to offer strategic support to companies eligible for Hy2Move Fund contributions.
Thanks to our consolidated experience, we guide companies through the application process and reporting documents, ensuring that all required technical and regulatory criteria are met. Our contribution also includes support in the optimisation of technological solutions, to enable companies to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the IPCEI Hydrogen 4 Fund.
Contact us for personalised advice.