Commission sets out plans for European hydrogen and fuel cells partnership
Commission President Romano Prodi, Vice President Loyola de Palacio and Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin have outlined plans for a European hydrogen and fuel cells partnership in a new communication published on 10 September. The partnership will bring together all major stakeholders in the future hydrogen economy, and task them with devising the necessary strategic research agenda. The partnership will also seek to foster public-private initiatives, identify a suitable policy framework, and promote international cooperation in the field. Welcoming the communication, Ms de Palacio said: 'We have a vision for the hydrogen economy of the future: now we have to work with hydrogen players, both private and public, and with our international partners, including the US and Japan, towards turning that vision into reality.' Commissioner Busquin added: 'EU policy initiatives and many EU funded projects are already advancing research, development and demonstration of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. But now we need to move up a gear to encourage hydrogen and fuel cell take up.' The work of the European hydrogen partnership will be overseen by an advisory council. Its timetable, structure and terms of reference, as well a call for expressions of interest for participation, will be finalised as early as October 2003.