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The H2START project aims to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Stara Zagora to spearhead the advancement of innovative technologies for renewable hydrogen production and uptake. As an essential component of the transition towards a low-carbon and energy-secure economy, renewable hydrogen holds tremendous promise for Bulgaria, particularly in regions like Stara Zagora, historically developed as the energy production “heart” of the region, economically developed and well connected to infrastructure and trans-European roads.The CoE, situated in the heart of Stara Zagora, is strategically positioned to lead the change in replacing coal mining with renewable energy and green hydrogen production, deployments and export. Recognised as a Hydrogen Valley by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership (ZAHYR HV), the region's successful transformation hinges on excellence (R&I activities, attracting talents and gaining recognition and international collaboration). Led by TrU and supported by BGH2A, the CoE aims to drive R&I initiatives, which will bring institutional change to the higher education sector in the whole system opening up to reforms linked to creating highly skilled employment opportunities, and positioning Bulgaria as an attractive hub for scientific and technological advancement. Collaboration with esteemed partners such as POLITO and CNR alongside the guidance of international recognized leaders, will ensure robust governance, management, and administration systems.The CoE will revolutionize Bulgaria's research ecosystem, offering modern infrastructure and services to attract, nurture, and retain research talent while fostering collaboration with industry for enhanced innovation and technology transfer. As Bulgaria's research infrastructure outside of the capital Sofia, the CoE in Stara Zagora will serve as a beacon for bringing R&I in regions, positioning the nation at the forefront of clean energy transition technologies based on renewable hydrogen production.