ELEVATECEE Project Officially Launches to Boost Hydrogen Innovation in Central Eastern Europe
Bratislava, 5 November 2025 – 16 partners from Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Belgium gathered in Bratislava today for the official launch of ELEVATECEE, a European project aimed at Empowering Local and Cross Border Energy Value Chains and Advancing Technological Excellence in Central Eastern Europe.
The project brings together national and regional stakeholders from the quadruple helix to develop complete hydrogen value chains, from energy generation and hydrogen production to transport, storage, and end-use applications. ELEVATECEE will particularly focus on hard-to-abate sectors, driving industrial modernisation across the CEE region and supporting EU climate goals.
Hosted by the Slovak Innovation and Energy Agency (SIEA), the Kick-Off Meeting featured a full day of presentations, strategic discussions, and collaboration sessions, providing an opportunity for partners to align on the next steps for implementing the project’s ambitious objectives. Over the next 18 months, the consortium will concentrate on identifying high-impact value chains, turning them into concrete investment projects, and ensuring active stakeholder engagement through the organisation of conferences and the establishment of a cross-border investors panel.
“ELEVATECEE represents a unique opportunity to bring together diverse expertise from across Central Eastern Europe,” said Tajana Karasova, Team Leader at SIEA and Project Coordinator. “By fostering cross-border collaboration among all parts of the quadruple helix, we aim to unlock the full potential of hydrogen technologies and drive sustainable industrial transformation throughout the region.”
Beyond technical discussions, the Kick-Off provided the opportunity for partners to informally exchange ideas and strengthen connections during a networking lunch, setting the foundation for close cooperation in the coming months. The day concluded with a wrap-up session, summarising next steps across all Work Packages and reaffirming the consortium’s shared commitment to the path forward.
The Kick-off marked a strong start to an exciting journey, driven by a diverse and highly motivated consortium ready to advance hydrogen innovation throughout the CEE region.