H2VE - Hydrogen Valley Vocational Excellence Hub

Hydrogen plays a key role in the energy transition and as a measure against climate change. So-called Hydrogen Valleys are therefore emerging in many European countries - regional innovation centres that promote the use of hydrogen technologies and strengthen local energy systems. These hydrogen regions not only contribute to a sustainable energy supply, but also offer economic opportunities through new investments and technological developments.

A decisive success factor for the establishment of these Hydrogen Valleys is the qualification of the labour force. The growing hydrogen sector requires specialised professionals with extensive knowledge of hydrogen production, storage, transport and use, as well as circular economy aspects and approaches. Education and training institutions have recognised this development and are increasingly offering courses, training and seminars to qualify both new and existing workers.

In order to meet the growing demand for skilled labour and strengthen the link between education and industry, many regions are relying on a networked ecosystem of schools, universities, vocational training institutions and industry partners. The establishment of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) offers the opportunity to develop practical training programmes and act as a bridge between educational institutions and companies.

The project ‘Hydrogen Valley Vocational Excellence Hub’ (H2VE) aims to specifically promote the qualification of skilled workers in the field of hydrogen technologies and to establish a sustainable training network in the long term. To this end, a new network of Centres of Vocational Excellence will be created to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, experience and best practices between the various hydrogen regions of Europe and beyond.

In total, the ‘H2VE’ project will establish CoVEs in six countries: Germany, Italy, Poland, Latvia, Greece and the non-European partner country Ghana. This transnational cooperation aims to coordinate and further develop educational programmes in order to prepare pupils at secondary school level as well as trainees, students and professionals specifically for the requirements of the hydrogen economy. In addition to technical skills, interdisciplinary skills are also taught that are conducive to the successful implementation of hydrogen projects.

H2VE relies on close cooperation between educational institutions, industry and political stakeholders to ensure needs-based and practice-orientated training. Targeted training programmes, new teaching methods and digital learning platforms will enable lifelong learning so that skilled workers remain at the cutting edge of technology in the future.

In the long term, H2VE should help to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon hydrogen economy, drive innovative technologies and establish Europe as a leading location for sustainable hydrogen solutions.

Project duration: 02/2025 – 01/2029

Funding provider: Europäische Kommission

Funding program: Erasmus+

Funding reference: 101194163

Funding amount: 359.092 €