Research database

H2SCORE aims to demonstrate how integrated Fuel Cell and Hydrogen (FCH) technologies can enable the next generation of Renewable Energy Communities (RECs), enhancing their decarbonisation, resilience, and energy autonomy. The project combines low-temperature (PEM electrolyser, metal hydride storage, PEM fuel cell) and high-temperature (reversible Solid Oxide Cell powered by syngas from local biomass) hydrogen systems in a modular, replicable setup. The concept will be demonstrated in the operational Valsesia REC (Quarona, Italy). The system will be fully integrated with the local electrical grid and District Heating Network, enabling sector coupling, and managed through an advanced Energy Management System aimed at multi-vector (electricity, heat, hydrogen, biomass) optimisation and oriented towards REC-specific objectives. A portable hydrogen-powered fuel cell genset will also be deployed for temporary or mobile use cases. This first-of-its-kind H2-REC will operate at TRL7 through a 12-month demonstration campaign, also including on-site detection of pollutant emissions and hydrogen leakages. A cloud-based monitoring tool will track REC KPIs in real time, support stakeholder engagement, and promote replicability. H2SCORE modelling framework integrates techno-economic, environmental, regulatory, safety, and social dimensions to guide both H2-REC impacts assessment and replication strategy. Four replication studies (Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Canada) will test the concept across different geographies, user needs, regulatory environments, and both on- and off-grid settings. The project builds on previous EU-funded FCH projects and leverages the complementary expertise of 15 partners, fostering synergies with relevant EU and national initiatives to scale up hydrogen-ready RECs across Europe and beyond.

• Marta Gandiglio (Principal Investigator)
• Paolo Marocco (Component of the research team)
• Massimo Santarelli (Component of the research team)