The H2REF-DEMO project, set to demonstrate its hydrogen compression technology in 2026, marks a significant step forward in Europe’s journey towards a net-zero economy. This initiative, coordinated by the French Technical Center for Mechanical Industries (CETIM), brings together industry leaders and research institutes to validate a hydraulic compression and refuelling system capable of delivering hydrogen at unprecedented flow rates. The project’s success could reshape the hydrogen sector, accelerating the deployment of clean, reliable hydrogen infrastructure for heavy-duty vehicles.
Europe’s transition to a net-zero economy hinges on the development of clean, reliable hydrogen infrastructure. The H2REF-DEMO project is a testament to the continued investment, research, and innovation required to meet this challenge. The project aims to develop cost-effective and reliable hydrogen fuel cell vehicle refuelling systems, with a focus on heavy-duty transport. This sector is a significant contributor to harmful gas emissions, and hydrogen is seen as a key player in its decarbonisation.
The H2REF-DEMO project builds on the success of the original H2REF project, which developed a breakthrough compression concept for passenger vehicle refuelling. Now, the H2REF-DEMO project is targeting the heavy transport sector, demonstrating hydraulic compression for high-capacity hydrogen refuelling. The project’s innovative ‘direct filling’ process and high-capacity compression module are recognised by the European Commission’s Innovation Radar as having high market potential.
The project’s demonstration phase, set to begin in 2026, will install and test a full-scale hydrogen refuelling prototype at a dedicated HRS station in Champagnier, France. Through 500 hours of testing, the one-year campaign will validate both the mechanical durability of the compression system and the operational reliability of the integrated hydrogen refuelling station. This milestone will mark the transition from laboratory innovation to commercial-scale deployment.
The H2REF-DEMO system targets 35 MPa (350 bar) dispensing at 150 kg H₂/h, supporting up to 1.2 tonnes per day of hydrogen throughput. Optimised for on-site production and distribution, the prototype demonstrator achieves an energy efficiency of less than 3.5 kWh/kg – a significant improvement over traditional mechanical compression.
Along with capacity scale-up, the demonstrator focuses on process optimisation, cost reduction, and further durability testing. Key finalised modules of the demonstrator include the Hydraulic Power Pack (HPP), High-Capacity Compression Module (HCCM), and Hydraulic Bladder Accumulator System. Advanced bladder materials and composite reinforced accumulator shells are also being developed to ensure compatibility with hydrogen while adhering to stringent environmental regulations.
The project’s consortium consists of seven partners across three EU countries, each contributing unique expertise. The H2REF-DEMO project is co-funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme under the Clean Hydrogen Partnership.
Once validated, the H2REF-DEMO system promises to reduce energy consumption, operational costs, and maintenance needs across the hydrogen refuelling chain. Its modular architecture enables deployment in diverse settings — from urban bus depots to motorway freight corridors – supporting Europe’s Fit for 55 and REPowerEU objectives. Beyond its technical achievements, the project sets an important precedent for sustainable manufacturing.
As the project moves toward its final demonstration phase, H2REF-DEMO embodies Europe’s collective ambition: to build robust, efficient, and sustainable hydrogen refuelling infrastructure that can power the heavy transport sector. By advancing hydrogen compression to commercial readiness, the consortium is not just refining a technology – it’s laying the groundwork for a cleaner, interconnected, and self-reliant energy future.
The success of the H2REF-DEMO project could significantly shape the development of the hydrogen sector. It could accelerate the deployment of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, making hydrogen a more viable option for heavy-duty transport. Furthermore, the project’s focus on sustainability and cost reduction could make hydrogen more competitive with traditional fuels, driving further investment and innovation in the sector. The project’s outcomes could also influence policy and regulation, shaping the future of hydrogen in Europe and beyond.