Hydrogen innovation took the spotlight in Dublin this October.
From 21–23 October 2025, the World Hydrogen Technologies Convention (WHTC 2025) gathered the world’s leading experts in hydrogen and fuel cell technology. They discussed how to make the global hydrogen economy efficient, scalable, and sustainable.
Produced by the Hydrogen Ireland (H2IRL) in collaboration with the International Association forHydrogen Energy (IAHE), the event brought together hundreds of participants. From policymakers and scientists to business leaders and investors.
With an audience representing more than 40 countries, WHTC is recognised as one of the world’s most influential hydrogen conventions. Shaping both policy and innovation directions for the coming decade.
Over three days, the convention presented scientific sessions, policy panels, and industry showcases. Focusing on the economic, environmental, technological, and legislative aspects of hydrogen deployment.
Discussions explored how hydrogen can be produced, distributed, and used efficiently across multiple sectors. From heavy industry and energy storage to transport and data infrastructure.
This year, two project partners of EASTGATEH2V — HyEnergy Consultancy Limited and Fraunhofer ISE — took part in the event, representing the project and sharing experiences from real-world hydrogen valley initiatives across Europe.
Leading voices shaping Europe’s hydrogen future
The programme featured an impressive line-up of speakers, including:
- Timmy Dooley TD, Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment
- Dr. Ayfer Veziroglu, President of the International Association for Hydrogen Energy
- Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO of Hydrogen Europe
- Stephanie Mudd, Deputy Director of the Clean Hydrogen Mission
- Brian Mullins, Hydrogen Programme Director of the Gas Networks Ireland
- Alicia Eastman, Managing Director of APC Investors and Co-founder of InterContinental Energy
- Robert Evers, Senior Advisor at Gasunie
- Paul McCormack, CEO of Hydrogen Ireland and Chair of WHTC 2025
- And many others
Lessons from six Hydrogen Valleys
Among the most insightful sessions was “Hydrogen Valleys: Lessons from Six Projects”, delivered by Ian Williamson, CEO of HyEnergy Consultancy Limited — a project partner of EASTGATEH2V.
Ian Williamson presented case studies from six major European hydrogen valleys, each demonstrating how regional ecosystems are integrating renewable energy production, hydrogen generation, and industrial use.
His presentation offered an honest look at both the opportunities and challenges of scaling hydrogen systems — from infrastructure financing to long-term operational costs.
The message resonated throughout the conference:
“Hydrogen valleys are where ambition meets implementation.”
Among the examples, EASTGATEH2V was highlighted as a reference point for Central and Eastern Europe. Showing how coordinated regional efforts can deliver tangible results and accelerate Europe’s energy transition.
Our second partner also took part in the event. Christoph Hank, Team Lead at Fraunhofer ISE presented the HYreland Project, which explores cross-border cooperation in renewable hydrogen systems focused on Ireland and Germany. The presentation highlighted how collaboration between research institutions and regional initiatives can help connect hydrogen ecosystems across Europe.
A forum for global collaboration and local impact
WHTC 2025 combined academic research with real-world application.
Parallel tracks covered topics such as hydrogen safety, certification, infrastructure planning, policy frameworks, and investment opportunities.
Panels on energy security, hydrogen-to-industry integration, and cross-sector collaboration demonstrated that the path to a hydrogen economy requires cooperation beyond borders.
The participation of our partners and the inclusion of EASTGATEH2V as an example of regional best practice underline the growing recognition of Slovakia’s role in the European hydrogen network.
By contributing to the global conversation on innovation and implementation, EASTGATEH2V continues to strengthen its position as part of Europe’s hydrogen transformation.
Learn more about the event: World Hydrogen Technologies Convention 2025
Learn more about our partners: HyEnergy Consultancy Limited | Fraunhofer ISE