On 21–22 April 2026, the Bulgarian Hydrogen, Fuel Cell and Energy Storage Association (BGH2A) participated in Hannover Messe, where hydrogen was once again a central theme of the global energy transition.
A key highlight was Hydrogen + Fuel Cells EUROPE, the leading industrial platform for hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. Through exhibitions, masterclasses, and public forums, the event created strong opportunities for business exchange and collaboration. The programme featured 118 hydrogen-focused events, while the participation of 64 research institutions and 54 R&D projects highlighted Europe’s leadership in hydrogen innovation and the importance of research and development.
The international scope of the sector was reflected in the diverse exhibitor base, with strong participation from EU countries alongside organisations from North America, Asia, and other regions. Among the technology highlights was cellcentric’s NextGen fuel cell system, presented publicly for the first time following its global launch and marking progress in heavy-duty hydrogen applications.
During the visit, BGH2A held strategic meetings with the German Hydrogen Association (DWV) and the Spanish Hydrogen Association (AeH2), focusing on the need for improved regulations to support the development of a common European hydrogen market.
BGH2A also engaged in discussions related to the Bulgarian H2START Centre of Excellence for Hydrogen Technologies at Trakia University, including exchanges with Dennitsa Nozharova and Prof. Andreas Friedrichs from the German Aerospace Center (DLR), a member of the H2START Advisory Board. The discussions addressed the current stage of the H2START Centre of Excellence development, opportunities for collaboration with research and innovation organizations across Europe and beyond, and the ongoing SET4H2 project. Particular attention was given to the work of the EU SET Plan Implementation Working Group on hydrogen and the development of a new Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda.
In parallel, BGH2A presented its activities and collaboration potential to a range of international organizations, including Hygen Power (China), Hydrogen Innovation Centre (HZwo), Enertrag, the Centre for Fuel Cell Technology (ZBT), Fraunhofer ISE, and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), covering the full hydrogen value chain from technology development to infrastructure.
BGH2A’s participation at Hannover Messe 2026 reinforced its role in connecting Bulgaria to the European hydrogen ecosystem and supporting the sector’s development through international cooperation, research, and innovation.
