The Agder region is taking a major step forward in its hydrogen investment and positioning itself as a leading player in Europe. With an ambitious EU application under preparation, the region stands on the threshold of a potential hydrogen boom that could transform both industry and the environment.
A broad consortium of partners has come together to establish a complete hydrogen value chain in Agder. This unique collaboration, which includes industry players, research institutions, academia and public administration, marks a milestone in the region's hydrogen investment. The goal is to create a holistic ecosystem that covers the entire spectrum from production through storage and distribution to end use.
The Port of Kristiansand is leading the effort to coordinate the consortium and draft the application, in close collaboration with the Department of Industry in Kristiansand Municipality and Agder County Municipality. In early February, a wide range of industrial stakeholders met for a workshop to fine-tune the content of the application, which has a deadline of 23 April 2025.
Key components of the project
Central to the plans for "South Norway Hydrogen Valley" is Greenstat's production of green hydrogen at Fiskå. Torstein Thorsen Ekern, VP Business Development & Opportunities at Greenstat, emphasizes the company's dedication. "Greenstat is investing in hydrogen going forward and the hydrogen plant in Kristiansand is an important part of this commitment. With investment support from Enova and close dialogue with the market, we have great faith in good financial profitability when the hydrogen plant comes into operation at the end of 2026."
The Hydrogen Valley project aims to strengthen all links in the hydrogen value chain in Agder. "This will be a holistic ecosystem where each player plays an important role," says a representative from one of the companies involved. "The fact that we can bring everything together in one initiative and EU application is a great opportunity for the region."
Potential gains
The application, which will be submitted to the EU in April 2025, could potentially trigger up to 20 million euros in support over a 4-5 year period. Such an award would not only strengthen Agder's position as a leading hydrogen hub in Europe, but also contribute significantly to the region's green transition.
With these advances since the beginning of the year, Agder is now ready to take its hydrogen initiative to Europe. With this initiative, the region shows that it is at the forefront of the green wave and positions itself as a key player in Europe's future hydrogen economy.
