Horizon Europe framework programme as a factor supporting the energy transformation of the country

Abstract

The article discusses the objectives of the Horizon Europe framework programme, conceived by the European Commission for 2021–2027, for the purposes of research and innovation. This programme is structured around three pillars, focusing on: creating the right conditions for researchers to acquire a high level of knowledge and skills, harnessing Europe’s intellectual capital, development of key technologies and innovative solutions in selected areas. The thematic groups of Horizon Europe have been presented, including: health, digital solutions, climate, energy, industry, bioeconomy. Attention has been paid to the organisation of international cooperation in the scope of research and innovation, where partnership has a special place in the upcoming programme perspective. The partnership is understood here as cooperation between research teams from EU Member States, the private sector, foundations or associations in undertaking and carrying out initiatives to support the development and implementation of the research agenda. The place of hydrogen technology in the development of various sectors of the economy was emphasised – from energy, road, rail, air, inland and sea transport, through heating and air conditioning, to the petrochemical, chemical and steel industries. The gas industry has a great role to play in the implementation of these technologies, having both the experience and the infrastructure to transport natural gas with the addition of hydrogen or to store hydrogen as an energy carrier. The benefits of implementing Horizon Europe have been presented. In addition to the chief benefits, related to the main objective of helping to make Europe a climate-neutral continent by 2050, attention has been paid to ensuring open access to publications and raw research results as well as to reinforcing international cooperation between research teams. The main assumptions and objectives of the Digital Europe programme have been presented, as well as the areas covered by funding (e.g. artificial intelligence, advanced digital skills, wide use of modern digital technologies in the entire economy). Both Horizon Europe and Digital Europe are compatible with the European Green Deal strategy of the EU.