The first day of H2SK Forum 2026 brought together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and hydrogen experts in Košice to discuss the future of hydrogen in Slovakia and across Europe.
The programme opened with keynote speeches from representatives of the Košice Self-Governing Region, the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic and the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, highlighting the growing importance of hydrogen in Europe’s clean energy transition.
A major part of the conference was dedicated to Hydrogen Valleys. Participants explored the progress of the EASTGATEH2V project alongside other leading European initiatives, including SH2AMROCK, ZAHYR, GREEN HYSLAND and the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley. Together, these projects demonstrated how regional hydrogen ecosystems are becoming key drivers of decarbonisation, innovation and economic development.
Another important topic was the development of hydrogen infrastructure. During a panel discussion, experts explored the future of hydrogen pipelines, cross-border transport corridors and the potential of existing gas infrastructure to support hydrogen distribution. The discussion also highlighted the strategic importance of cooperation between the European Union and Ukraine in building an interconnected hydrogen market.
The day concluded with a session on the implementation and financing of Hydrogen Valleys. Speakers shared practical experience from projects already underway across Europe and discussed the opportunities and challenges associated with scaling up hydrogen deployment.
As a proud co-organiser of H2SK Forum 2026, EASTGATEH2V was pleased to contribute to discussions that are helping shape the future hydrogen landscape in Central and Eastern Europe.
The first day clearly demonstrated that building a hydrogen economy is not only about technology. It is also about collaboration, long-term planning and strong international partnerships.
For more photos: https://nvas.sk/en/h2sk-forum-2026-kosice-sa-stali-centrom-europskej-diskusie-o-buducnosti-vodika/
