EU launches application phase for cross-border hydrogen and CO₂ infrastructure projects

The European Commission has opened the application phase for new energy infrastructure projects that wish to be recognized as Projects of Common Interest (PCI) or Projects of Mutual Interest (PMI). By 30 September 2026, projects in the areas of hydrogen, electrolyzers and CO₂ transport and storage can submit their applications to the European Commission.

For the industry, the tender is an important step in building cross-border CO₂ infrastructure in Europe. Projects that are included in the next PCI/PMI list will benefit from accelerated permitting procedures, political prioritization and improved access to EU funding.

The relevant legal framework is provided by the TEN-e Regulation. Following the application deadline, submitted projects will be evaluated according to the TEN-E Regulation criteria and reviewed by regional assessment groups. The EU list of PCI and PMI projects will be the third list of its kind and is expected to be adopted by the end of 2027 and enter into force in 2028.

For Germany, the tender offers an opportunity to advance further cross-border CO₂ infrastructure projects and strengthen their integration into a European transport and storage network. The development of an integrated CO₂ network is seen as an essential prerequisite to enable Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) as well as Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) on an industrial scale, particularly for unavoidable industrial emissions.