Strong Partnerships, Shared Vision – H2Cove Comes Together in Tartu

The H2CoVE project brings together educational institutions, research organizations, and industry partners from five regions: Vestland (Norway), Northern Netherlands (the Netherlands), Tyrol (Austria), Estonia, and Ivano-Frankivsk (Ukraine). The aim of the project is to create strong local hydrogen skills ecosystems that support the development of the hydrogen economy and the achievement of Europe’s climate neutrality goals. Estonian project partners include TalTech Virumaa College, Tartu Vocational Education Centre (VOCO), the Estonian Aviation Academy, and SKYCORP OÜ.

© 2025 by Zeinäb Mirzojeva. Video recorded during the H2CoVE Project Partner Meeting in Tartu, Estonia. Music: “Neon Lights” by Soundroll from Uppbeat. License code: ZHUIWLO80MNDUGB6 used with permission. All rights reserved.

Throughout the two-day meeting, partners presented progress updates on project activities, work packages, and regional coordination, accompanied by lively discussions. Meetings with local hydrogen sector companies such as H2Electro, GaltTec, and Skycorp took place at Tartu Science Park. The TiVO hydrogen project was also introduced, and discussions were held on planning the further development of the hydrogen ecosystem and strengthening vocational education related to hydrogen. Partners also visited the VOCO Engineering Academy, where a hydrogen laboratory for vocational training is being developed. During the meeting, the project’s Evaluation and Quality Book was approved, setting out future quality assurance processes and reporting schedules.

On the second day, the University of Tartu's Institute of Chemistry hosted the international hydrogen network. Project partners were introduced to the Chemicum Renewable Energy Center, which houses Estonia’s first green hydrogen refuelling station as well as active research and development in battery technology and fuel cells.

The second half of the day focused on presenting the hydrogen ecosystems of different countries. An interactive map created by Nikita Lumijõe from TalTech Virumaa College provides a comprehensive overview of renewable energy producers, hydrogen storage and distribution companies, research institutions, and hydrogen technology developers in Estonia.

As part of the Tartu meeting, a practical workshop titled "Ecosystem Talk" was held, led by Professor Allan Niidu from TalTech Virumaa College and Marek Alliksoo, CEO of Skycorp. The workshop mapped the main barriers and opportunities for developing the hydrogen ecosystem in different countries.

During the workshop, it became clear that key obstacles to the widespread adoption of hydrogen technologies include low public awareness and often skeptical attitudes towards green technologies. It is also difficult to secure sufficient funding, especially for educational projects where immediate financial returns are not apparent. Other major challenges identified included the slow adaptation of the education system to future labour market needs, frequent shifts in political priorities complicating long-term planning, and stakeholder fatigue caused by competing initiatives. Furthermore, a lack of clear responsibility within organizations was seen as a barrier to effective decision-making.

However, the discussions also highlighted several important opportunities for developing the hydrogen sector. Participants emphasized the need for stronger cooperation between education and industry to train a skilled workforce that meets real sector needs. Key drivers for progress identified included accelerating innovation and technological development through international collaboration, integrating students into hands-on projects via internships and theses, and systematically involving relevant stakeholders throughout the process. The development of policy recommendations to better align education and politics, and strengthening energy independence and security, were also seen as important steps.

"The development of hydrogen technologies is not merely an engineering challenge; it also requires raising awareness, strengthening cooperation between education and industry, and reinforcing international networks. Only through these efforts can we ensure that hydrogen plays a central role in building a sustainable society and economy in the future," emphasizes Professor Allan Niidu.

The workshop confirmed that despite the challenges, there is a strong foundation for developing the hydrogen sector. International collaboration and a systematic approach can accelerate the growth of hydrogen skills and technologies across Europe.

The Tartu meeting once again affirmed that hydrogen is a key driver for promoting clean energy and sustainable development. The H2CoVE project is building a strong basis to ensure that in the future, Europe will have a skilled workforce capable of supporting the hydrogen economy and the green transition.

Additional Links & Insights:
Estonian hydrogen ecosystem map