Call for proposals under the Implementation Plan of Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking
The European Commission has published a call for proposals the Implementation Plan of Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. The challenge facing fuel cells and hydrogen technologies is of great complexity, requiring substantial investments and a high level of scientific, technological and industrial expertise. The European Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan has identified fuel cells and hydrogen among the technologies needed for Europe to achieve the targets for 2020, such as the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, higher share of renewable energy sources in the energy mix and a significant reduction in primary energy use. This call is divided into five overall sections: - transportation and refuelling infrastructure; - hydrogen production and distribution; - stationary power generation and combined heat and power; - early markets; - cross-cutting issues. These are then further divided into specific collaborative projects and actions. The chosen areas reflect the research and technology development cycle from long-term and breakthrough-oriented basic research to demonstration and support activities. (Pre-normative research is also included at project level.) The emphasis given to different action categories in different application areas reflects the industry and research partners' assessment of the state of technological maturity of the applications. Within the framework of the available annual budget, the actions have been chosen based on their potential contribution to achieving Europe's policy objectives, i.e. the Commission's targets for green house gas reductions, energy security and competitiveness. They include in a balanced way research, technological development, demonstration and cross-cutting activities, including regulations, codes and standards (RCS). The Implementation Plan is the result of a joint effort by the major stakeholders, representing a set of prioritised actions, consistent with the long-term objectives of the joint undertaking.To see the official call announcement, please consult: OJ No C 131 of 3 May 2011(opens in new window) and the following link(opens in new window)