The BMWE is currently conducting a consultation with federal states and associations on the draft Hydrogen Acceleration Act. The deadline for submitting comments ends on July 28, 2025.

Hydrogen plays a key role in decarbonization: Hydrogen can be used as an energy carrier, particularly when direct electrification of individual economic sectors is not possible or uneconomical. Hydrogen is also an essential raw material for the chemical industry.

The current draft of the Hydrogen Acceleration Act is intended to make the processes for the respective infrastructure faster, simpler, and more digital. Tailored to practical needs, the draft law addresses the entire hydrogen supply chain.

It covers the production of hydrogen by electrolyzers, the import of hydrogen (and its derivatives), and the storage and transport of hydrogen. Plants for the production of electricity-based fuels will also be accelerated to advance decarbonization in the transport sector. Furthermore, the extraction of natural hydrogen will be facilitated by defining it as a free mineral resource in the Federal Mining Act.

The Hydrogen Acceleration Act introduces, among other things, clear deadlines, comprehensive requirements for digitalization, and simplified procurement procedures. It also stipulates that the projects are in the overriding public interest. This gives them special weight in balancing decisions. The interests of the public water supply are preserved, and the availability of drinking water is not compromised.

The Hydrogen Acceleration Act is part of the federal government’s emergency program. The draft legislation has not yet been finalized by the interministerial committee.