The INERH2 project (Research into Electricity and Hydrogen Charging Infrastructure for Sustainable Mobility) held its kick-off meeting today in Faro, Portugal, hosted by the University of Algarve (UAlg) and the Algarve Regional Energy and Environment Agency (AREAL).

This initiative, funded by the Interreg Spain-Portugal (POCTEP) 2021-2027 programme, will run for 36 months and seeks to foster a cross-border research network between Spain and Portugal focused on the design, operation and efficient management of electric vehicle charging and green hydrogen infrastructure.

The consortium, comprising CTA (Andalusian Technology Corporation), Galician Institute of Technology Foundation (ITG), University of Seville, “Esteban Terradas” National Institute of Aerospace Technology (INTA), University of Algarve, INESC TEC (Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science), AREAL (Algarve Regional Energy and Environment Agency), and Vasco da Gama CoLAB – Energy Storage Association, had previously met during the project’s online general assembly.

At this first in-person meeting, which was open to the public and attracted 40 registered participants, the partners presented the project’s objectives and planned activities, all aimed at contributing to a more efficient and sustainable transport system across the cross-border region.

The event also explored the key challenges and opportunities arising from the energy transition and the development of alternative fuel infrastructure. In addition, participants were introduced to related initiatives and projects, including AGERAR PLUS and AIHRE, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and experiences across sectors and regions.

This meeting brought together representatives from public authorities, universities, research centres and organisations within the innovation ecosystem, who shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities associated with transport decarbonisation and the future of mobility on the Iberian Peninsula.

Furthermore, the event provided an excellent platform for networking and fostering new synergies among companies, researchers, public officials and other key stakeholders, reinforcing the collaboration required to accelerate innovation and advance the energy transition.