Hydrogen Highways: Europe’s 2030 Infrastructure Race

EU rules call for hydrogen refueling stations every 200 km by 2030. NEL and Air Liquide race to build stations and spark clean vehicle demand.

4 Jul 2025

Europe’s plan to decarbonize transport is shifting into high gear. New rules under the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation will require hydrogen refueling stations every 200 kilometres along major roads by 2030. This is more than a simple upgrade. It is a blueprint for a continent-wide network that promises no-emission trips for cars and trucks alike.

Leading technology firms such as NEL and Air Liquide are racing to roll out stations in time. Engineers are drawing up designs, firms are securing permits and headquarters are coordinating across borders. The goal is to deliver fast-fill, high-pressure hydrogen where drivers will need it most.

“This approach flips the old logic,” says a NEL project director. “We are building infrastructure first to inspire demand.” With detailed rollout plans due in 2027, investors are lining up to support everything from storage tanks to transport fleets.

Yet iron beams and steel pumps are only half the story. Policymakers warn that drivers will need incentives to choose hydrogen vehicles. Daniel Fraile of Hydrogen Europe notes that stations and cars must advance together. Without support for fleets, filling stations risk standing idle.

Still, momentum is building. Suppliers are teaming up with vehicle manufacturers. Logistics partners are mapping out supply chains. Europe’s hydrogen network could serve as a model for the world.

If all goes according to plan, the continent will transform highways into hydrogen corridors by 2030. That vision of seamless, clean travel may soon leave the drawing board and hit the road.