Study: Austria Has Great Potential for Hydrogen Storage

The findings are central to the next phase of Austria's hydrogen strategy, which relies on a strong import and storage infrastructure. According to the study, which was prepared by the Austrian Energy Agency, AIT, Montanuniversität Leoben, and NHP Rechtsanwälte, the nationwide hydrogen demand will increase from 5 TWh in 2030 to 48 TWh in 2040, while the optimal storage demand will rise from 1.2 to 7.7 TWh. The background is primarily the planned use in industry and the energy sector.

Austria to Become European Hydrogen Hub

Austria is also advancing international infrastructure projects. At the trilateral meeting with Germany and Italy, the further expansion of the planned Southern Corridor was recently fixed, through which green hydrogen from North Africa is to flow to Central Europe in the future. In parallel, cooperation with Ukraine is to be deepened, as its existing gas pipeline infrastructure is of interest for hydrogen. These initiatives are intended to position Austria as a European hub in the long term - reminiscent of its former role as a central gas hub.

"Storage is not a vision, but a necessity," said Minister of Economic Affairs Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (ÖVP) according to the statement. "We must create the legal, technical, and economic conditions for Austria to continue to be part of the European storage network and to utilize its geological advantages. This is not only energy policy but also location policy."

Regulation in the Mineral Resources Act Missing

However, the study also reveals legal gaps. There is no specific regulation for hydrogen storage in the Mineral Resources Act. An adjustment and a "one-stop approval" are recommended to accelerate projects.

The market ramp-up is supported by several national flagship projects that aim to advance the production, storage, and industrial use of green hydrogen. A total of 275 million euros in federal funds are available for this purpose. Further funding programs are running at the EU level. Applications in the steel, chemical, and glass industries are being promoted.

(APA/Red)

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