The German state of Bavaria has accelerated the development of its hydrogen ecosystem by funding the construction of 50 hydrogen refueling stations

The German state of Bavaria is accelerating its hydrogen energy strategy, planning to launch a new phase of the hydrogen station funding program and officially launch on September 7,2023. (In 2007, the state of Bavaria launched a project called the Hydrogen Initiative Bavaria, which aims to promote the development and application of hydrogen technology. The project brings together governments, industry and research institutions to promote hydrogen energy.)

Bavarian Economy Minister Hubert Aiwanger made it clear: Our funding plan aims to solve the "chicken and egg" problem of hydrogen development. If we have more hydrogen refueling stations locally, it will facilitate the application of more hydrogen-powered vehicles. We received responses to our two funding rounds in March and Autumn 2023. So far, 19 projects have been approved, with the first hydrogen refueling station set to open in Hofolding this week and another in Passau on September 20.

The revised plan provides substantial financial incentives for the development of public and private hydrogen fueling stations. Fueling stations for commercial vehicles and buses will receive up to 90 percent of the cost, while on-premises fueling stations will provide 40 percent of the cost. The program, which began in October 2022, was adjusted according to the latest German aid guidelines. The program has increased its support for electrolyzers through Bayern's electrolyzer Funding program.

According to the revised guidelines, Bavaria will make its first application between September 18 and November 13, 2023. The state of Bavaria not only promotes the construction of hydrogen refueling stations, but also actively advocates the development of an integrated hydrogen infrastructure. This includes climate-friendly hydrogen production technologies, such as electrolyzers, which will also receive funding. In addition, for non-public hydrogen refueling stations, the program will also finance the acquisition or conversion of three hydrogen-powered vehicles in the commercial and logistics sectors.

Bavaria not only provides the soil for the seeds of a hydrogen economy, but also provides a comprehensive roadmap for hydrogen development. From hydrogen refueling stations to hydrogen vehicles to hydrogen supply, the state of Bavaria is striving to become a one-stop supplier of hydrogen solutions. Creating a favorable environment for the vigorous development of hydrogen energy in Bavaria.

Bavaria is one of the wealthiest states in Germany and has one of the strongest economies in Europe. The state has strong automotive manufacturing, information technology and financial services sectors, and is home to the headquarters of numerous multinational companies. Bavaria has been interested in hydrogen technology since the end of the 20th century. During this period, state governments began to explore the potential of hydrogen energy in their energy supply. In 2007, the state of Bavaria launched a project called the Hydrogen Initiative Bavaria, which aims to promote the development and application of hydrogen technology. The project brings together governments, industry and research institutions to promote hydrogen energy development. Over time, the state of Bavaria has gradually built up a series of hydrogen energy infrastructure, including hydrogen refueling stations and hydrogen production facilities. This supports the use of hydrogen energy.