Dr. Peter Rendel Represents HyDRA Across Europe

International Collaboration Driving Hydrogen Innovation

IntInternational collaboration is essential for addressing some of the most complex challenges tied to the EU’s ambitious climate targets. For the HyDRA project, this includes supporting the development of hydrogen infrastructure, particularly advancing safe and effective underground hydrogen storage.

As part of these efforts, HyDRA’s Work Package 3 leader, Dr. Peter Rendel from Earth Sciences New Zealand, participated in a New Zealand senior research leaders’ delegation to Europe led by The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). Among numerous events, Dr. Rendel attended an international research collaboration summit hosted by the UK Research Office (UKRO), aimed at promoting the participation of associated countries in the upcoming Program 10, where the HyDRA project was prominently showcased.

Visiting European HyDRA Partners

During the visit, Dr. Rendel also engaged with several European HyDRA partners, strengthening collaboration and knowledge exchange between the research institutions involved in the project. Among the institutions visited were:

• Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany
• University of Bergen (UiB), Norway

These meetings offered opportunities to discuss ongoing research, share expertise, and exchange interdisciplinary perspectives on developing diagnostic tools and risk protocols for underground hydrogen storage.

Bridging Borders and Disciplines for Scientific Progress

The visit underscores the importance of international partnerships in tackling complex energy and climate challenges. Dr. Rendel highlighted that collaboration across countries and disciplines is vital for leveraging diverse expertise and achieving meaningful scientific outcomes.

“Having the opportunity to learn from the experimental work of other consortium members helps us refine our methodologies and achieve higher-quality research.” – Dr. Peter Rendel

By connecting researchers and institutions across regions, Horizon Europe initiatives such as the HyDRA project strengthen scientific collaboration and support the development of future energy solutions.