The Just Transition Fund (JTF) will support the Hydrogen Research Centre in Wels. The project – which will receive EUR 9.8 million from the JTF – aims to research applications for hydrogen, and support small and medium-sized enterprises active in greenhouse gas intensive industries to develop sustainable and competitive production processes. The research centre’s work is not only accelerating the take-up of hydrogen as a clean energy source but also contributing to creating green jobs and fostering economic growth. In line with the JTF’s objectives, the project will help Upper Austria address the socio-economic impacts of the transition toward climate neutrality.

Austria receives a total of EUR 136 million from JTF [which is implemented partly in the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) & JTF programme, and partly in the ESF+ (European Social Fund+) & JTF programme]. With these funds, Austria supports the diversification toward sustainable and innovation-driven economic activities, research and innovation projects on climate transition, as well as up- and reskilling.

The total JTF budget for 2021-2027 for the whole EU amounts to EUR 19.7 billion and aims to support territories facing serious socio-economic challenges arising from the transition toward climate neutrality.