NAHV

Evolving a cross-border ecosystem with renewable hydrogen

On 27 May 2025, stakeholders from Slovenia and Italy gathered in Solkan for the Clean Energy Conference – an event dedicated to exploring clean energy cooperation, innovative solutions, and successful practices. The event took place at Restavracija Primula and featured a rich programme of high-level speakers and practical case studies.

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Samo Turel, Mayor of the Municipality of Nova Gorica, HE Giuseppe Cavagna, Italian Ambassador to Slovenia, and Dr Tomaž Štokelj, President of the Management Board at HSE. Their introductions highlighted the importance of collaboration and regional partnerships in achieving shared clean energy goals.

An opening presentation by Giacomo Ricciotti, Director of ICE Ljubljana, offered insights into trade flows between Italy and Slovenia with a particular focus on the energy sector.

The main programme showcased diverse examples of clean energy projects and community initiatives:

  • Dr Jerneja Sedlar (HSE) presented the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley (NAHV) and its role in building transnational hydrogen value chains.

  • Rajko Volk (SENG) introduced the “Soča Energy Charger” and the strategic role of the Avče pumped-storage power plant.

  • Michela Vogrig, President of LegaCoop FVG, shared the experience of energy communities in Friuli Venezia Giulia.

    Two case studies followed:

    • Part-Energy (Mauro Antonio Guarini) on shared renewable energy models;

    • SECAB Cooperative (Ennio Pittino) on providing green electricity to remote areas like the Upper But Valley.

  • Luca Di Benedetto (APT Gorizia) discussed the link between clean mobility and sustainability in urban settings.

  • Aleksander Gerbec, founder of ECUBES, presented modular, on-demand clean energy solutions.

The event concluded with a moderated debate led by J. Giacomelli (META Circularity), offering participants an opportunity to reflect on cross-border synergies and emerging opportunities in the clean energy space.

With diverse perspectives and hands-on experiences, the conference contributed to strengthening cross-border dialogue and accelerating the clean energy transition across the region.

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