Will ENNOH Unite Europe’s Hydrogen Plans?

New rules and ENNOH formation aim to guide Europe’s emerging market

20 Nov 2025

Europe’s hydrogen framework is taking shape as Directive 2024/1788 and Regulation 2024/1789 begin to define the bloc’s market structure. Although adopted in May 2024, member states have until August 2026 to transpose the rules, signalling a gradual move towards a more co-ordinated European system.

A central feature of the package is the creation of the European Network of Network Operators for Hydrogen, or ENNOH. The body is progressing through its statutory documents in mid-2025 and is expected to be fully operational by 2027. Once established, it will oversee long-term planning for pipelines and storage, develop network scenarios and support cross-border co-ordination among national operators.

The legislation also sets rules for third-party access, tariff design and the reuse of natural gas pipelines. Analysts say that by clarifying how costs are shared and how networks will be regulated, the EU aims to reduce investor uncertainty and enable scalable hydrogen corridors. Industrial clusters, transport groups and clean-tech developers are already assessing how the new regime may shape project pipelines.

Cross-border investments remain limited at this early stage, but discussions on alliances, potential infrastructure partnerships and future supply routes are increasing as stakeholders prepare for ENNOH’s guidance. Experts note that faster investment will depend on simpler permitting, stronger project economics and more predictable national policies, all of which differ across the bloc.

Even so, confidence is building that the EU has laid the groundwork for a coherent market. Policymakers expect clearer sequencing of infrastructure needs, closer co-ordination among operators and a more stable framework for private capital. Project proposals are likely to align more closely with a shared EU vision as implementation proceeds.

As ENNOH moves towards full operation, the sector is monitoring how early planning choices will shape the scale and links of Europe’s future hydrogen system. Decisions taken before 2027 will help determine whether the bloc can build an integrated network capable of supporting its long-term climate and industrial aims.