The appointment of López was announced this week. López's mandate will run until June 2029. He succeeds Sebastian Boden of Air Liquide, who led the association through what Hydrogen Europe describes as an ongoing transformation process.
Hydrogen Europe is the umbrella organization representing the European hydrogen industry. It brings together companies, national associations, and regional stakeholders to advocate for hydrogen as a pillar of Europe's industrial and energy strategy.
López points to thyssenkrupp Nucera experience
In his first statement after the election, López underlined the industrial dimension of his new role: "I am convinced that hydrogen will play a key role in keeping Europe's energy-intensive industry both competitive and low-carbon – provided the right conditions are in place: a reliable regulatory framework, a faster ramp-up and affordable hydrogen. That is what we are working on."
López referred directly to thyssenkrupp's own hydrogen activities. "In our Decarbon Technologies segment, and in particular through thyssenkrupp Nucera, we are already making green hydrogen possible at industrial scale. So, we know both the industry's needs and the obstacles to scaling first-hand," he said. Thyssenkrupp Nucera is one of the leading suppliers of alkaline water electrolysis technology and has delivered large-scale electrolyzer projects internationally.
Regarding his priorities as Chair, López said: "As Chair, I want to put Hydrogen Europe to work for exactly that: as a strong voice for the sector, as a bridge between industry and policymakers, and with a clear focus on delivery."
Focus on execution and industrial scale-up
According to Hydrogen Europe, the leadership change comes at a decisive moment for the European hydrogen economy. The association argues that the sector now requires stable and predictable policy frameworks to unlock investment, strengthen domestic manufacturing, accelerate infrastructure deployment, and stimulate demand in hard-to-abate industries.
Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, Chief Executive Officer of Hydrogen Europe, commented on the election: "Our newly elected Chair López brings extensive experience, strategic vision and a strong commitment to advancing Europe's hydrogen economy."
Hydrogen Europe itself thanked outgoing Chair Sebastian Boden for his contribution, particularly during the association's ongoing internal transformation. Details of that restructuring process were not disclosed in the announcement.
