The Bulgarian stakeholders’ engagement workshop, organized by the Balkan Hydrogen Cluster, was held on January 27, 2025, at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in Sofia.
The event brought together representatives from the State Agency for Meteorology and Technical Supervision, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Thracian University, University of National and World Economy, National Fire and Civil Safety Service, Sofia University, and the municipalities of Topolovgrad, Shumen, and Chelopech.
The agenda included a presentation of the HYPOP project, discussions on EU hydrogen legislation, safety issues, and the role of green hydrogen in industry and transport. Vasimir Radulov introduced the HYPOP project, highlighting its international significance and the benefits of Bulgaria’s involvement. Participants expressed strong support for the country’s active role in such strategic initiatives.
The representative of the State Meteorological Agency provided an overview of hydrogen-related legislative developments in Bulgaria and leading EU countries. Attendees emphasized the need for Bulgarian authorities to accelerate the introduction of national regulations to support hydrogen deployment. Hydrogen safety was addressed in detail by the National Fire and Civil Safety Service, covering all legal and regulatory requirements for the production, storage, and use of hydrogen. Real-life examples were presented, and current Bulgarian regulations under the Law on Spatial Planning and the Regulation on the Storage and Transport of Gases under Pressure were reviewed. It was noted that, while general safety standards like ISO and CE certification are required, there is currently no dedicated certification framework for hydrogen technologies in Bulgaria.
The potential for green hydrogen in industry and transport was discussed by the Balkan Hydrogen Cluster and academic and municipal representatives. They explored the formation of local Hydrogen Energy Communities to benefit both municipalities and businesses.
The meeting also addressed the process of permitting hydrogen projects. Currently, permits are issued by the State Meteorological Agency, but plans were announced to establish a dedicated expert group within the agency. Stoyan Sabev, Chief Chemical Engineer of the Balkan Hydrogen Cluster and a veteran expert in the field, will lead this group. It is hoped that this initiative will streamline and boost hydrogen project approvals.
Lastly, the absence of a specific certification system for hydrogen-related equipment in Bulgaria was acknowledged. A pilot certification initiative is being planned by the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and the Balkan Hydrogen Cluster, in coordination with the State Meteorological Agency, aiming to lay the groundwork for a more structured and secure hydrogen industry.
