The Bulgarian citixzens’ engagement workshop “Hydrogen Technology: Exploring Facts, Myths and Future Prospects” was held on February 17, 2025, from 13:00 to 14:30. The event brought together students and representatives from three high schools in Bulgaria—Natural Mathematical High School “Academician Sergei Koroliov” in Blagoevgrad, the Professional High School of Electrical Engineering and Power Engineering in Bansko, and the Professional High School of Engineering and Energy “Hristo Botev” in Pernik—as well as university students from the University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy and New Bulgarian University. Engineers, an expert in anti-drone systems, and a representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also participated.
The seminar focused on demystifying hydrogen technologies and exploring their real-world applications, challenges, and potential. Participants asked critical questions about which countries are leading in hydrogen development and how Bulgaria could benefit from their experience. Another major point of discussion was the role of hydrogen in various industries and whether it would create new employment opportunities or disrupt existing job sectors.
There was a lively discussion on the integration of hydrogen into emerging technologies such as robotics and unmanned systems. Participants explored the possibility of using hydrogen fuel cells to power unmanned taxis, delivery drones, and humanoid robots. It was noted that such systems could generate their own hydrogen and reduce dependence on frequent battery charging.
A key technical issue discussed was hydrogen infrastructure. It was agreed that Bulgaria’s current natural gas pipelines are not suitable for hydrogen transport without substantial reconstruction. Given the energy losses during long-distance transmission, localized hydrogen production—ideally on-site or within nearby “hydrogen valleys”—was identified as the most viable solution. This approach could also serve as an effective method for storing surplus energy from solar and wind sources for later use.
The Professional High School of Electrical Engineering and Power Engineering in Bansko shared its ambition to become an energy-independent building, powered by its own renewable sources, and highlighted a new class they have launched dedicated to hydrogen energy systems. Further discussions addressed the lack of hydrogen refueling stations in Bulgaria, safety concerns around hydrogen storage, and the need to train emergency responders through EU initiatives. Participants expressed concern about the absence of a dedicated legislative framework for hydrogen technologies in Bulgaria. While some European regulations have been adopted, there is currently little national support or encouragement for hydrogen development.
In the final part of the seminar, participants explored The Future of Hydrogen Technology. Hydrogen was recognized as a pivotal solution in the global transition to clean energy, especially in hard-to-electrify sectors such as heavy transport, industry, and large-scale power generation. Its compatibility with renewable energy sources, particularly its ability to store excess solar and wind energy, adds strategic value. In conclusion, hydrogen technologies offer substantial potential for environmental sustainability, energy independence, and economic development. Realizing this potential will require continued investment in research, infrastructure, and supportive policy frameworks.
