Law No. 237 “On the integration of hydrogen from renewable and low-carbon sources in the industry and transport sectors”.

This Law establishes a legal framework aimed at integrating hydrogen from renewable and low-carbon sources into national industry and transport sectors. Its primary objectives include setting measures for fuel suppliers and industrial consumers to promote the use of renewable fuels of non-biological origin and low-carbon hydrogen, with specific targets and thresholds outlined for 2030 and subsequent years. The Law operates within the broader policy context of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing a 70% emission reduction threshold for relevant fuels, and aligns with European directives on renewable energy promotion. Key measures include mandatory supply quotas for renewable fuels and hydrogen, with specific percentage targets for 2024 through 2029, and obligations for industrial consumers to ensure a minimum share of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen in their energy consumption, increasing over time. The Law introduces certification mechanisms, such as renewable hydrogen supply certificates and low-carbon hydrogen supply certificates, issued by the National Energy Regulatory Authority, to attest compliance with these targets. It also details calculation methods for energy content and greenhouse gas emission reductions, along with penalties for non-compliance, including fines proportional to the shortfall in meeting quota requirements. Reporting obligations are specified for fuel suppliers and industrial consumers, with deadlines and procedures for data submission and verification. Implementation is structured around regulatory and institutional responsibilities, including the issuance of certificates, verification of emission reduction thresholds, and enforcement of sanctions. The National Energy Regulatory Authority is tasked with establishing rules for emission trading and verification within 180 days of law enactment, while the government is responsible for approving related regulations and fines. The Law emphasizes procedural clarity, stakeholder reporting, and compliance monitoring, with enforcement mechanisms rooted in existing regulatory frameworks and infringement procedures.