UNLOCK Symposium in Bari: Advancing Green Hydrogen and SMEs

The UNLOCK Symposium, held on February 5th at the prestigious Acquedotto Pugliese Palace in Bari, concluded with remarkable success, highlighting the transformative potential of green hydrogen and the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in this emerging sector. Organized by the Puglia Region and DiTNE, the event was a key part of the UNLOCK 4th Interregional Event and Study Visit, bringing together leading experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across Europe.

A Gathering of Global Innovators

The symposium welcomed an influential assembly of stakeholders, including project partners from Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. Institutional representatives, industry leaders, and academics also participated, collectively shaping discussions on the future of green hydrogen. The event underscored the necessity of strategic collaboration to drive innovation and investment in sustainable energy solutions.

Inspiring Keynote Speeches

The event commenced with insightful keynote addresses from prominent figures, including Alessandro Delli Noci, Economic Development Councillor of Puglia Region; Gianna Elisa Berlingerio, Director of the Department of Economic Development of Puglia Region; Arturo de Risi, President of DiTNE; and Domenico Laforgia, President of Acquedotto Pugliese S.p.A.

Their speeches emphasized the significance of regional policies in fostering a robust green hydrogen supply chain and empowering SMEs to become integral players in this transition. They reinforced Puglia’s commitment to positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy, ensuring that local businesses benefit from emerging opportunities in hydrogen technologies.

High-Impact Thematic Sessions

A series of high-level thematic sessions provided a deep dive into key aspects of hydrogen development, regulatory frameworks, and SME engagement:

• The Regional Hydrogen Strategy in Puglia - #H2Puglia2030: This session offered an in-depth analysis of Puglia’s ambitious hydrogen strategy, outlining key policies, investment plans, and innovation initiatives. Speakers Daniela Manuela Di Dio, Antonella Sasso, and Carmela Iadaresta from the Puglia Region detailed how the region aims to become a frontrunner in hydrogen development by 2030.
• Green Hydrogen Economy: Overcoming Regulatory Barriers and Engaging SMEs in Sustainable Development: Moderated by Carlo Gadaleta Caldarola, this interactive workshop addressed the challenges SMEs face in entering the hydrogen sector. Experts Francesco Corvace and Arturo de Risi discussed strategies to streamline regulations, enhance SME participation, and promote sustainable economic growth.
• The Business System for Green Hydrogen Development: This session explored how SMEs can integrate into the green hydrogen value chain, focusing on transportation, maritime, and manufacturing applications. Panelists Beata Kviatek, Leonardo Mazza, Andrea Antenucci, Giovanni Bruni, and Giuseppe Rizzi shared insights on creating a thriving hydrogen ecosystem driven by entrepreneurship and innovation.
• Research and Innovation for Hydrogen: Driving SME Competitiveness in Green Technologies: Dedicated to cutting-edge advancements in hydrogen production, storage, and smart management, this session featured contributions from Luigi Sergi, Alberto Pasanisi, Enrico De Tuglie, Giulia Monteleone, Alessandro Monticelli, and Marcello Capra. Discussions revolved around how SMEs can leverage research and development to gain a competitive edge in green technology markets.

A Visionary Roundtable Discussion

The symposium concluded with a dynamic roundtable discussion on “Hydrogen Valleys for the Green Hydrogen Supply Chain: Opportunities for SME Growth,” moderated by Francesco Corvace. Esteemed panelists Arturo de Risi, Beata Kviatek, and Gabriele Menotti Lippolis explored strategies for accelerating SME participation in hydrogen valleys, reinforcing the role of localized ecosystems in scaling up green hydrogen initiatives.

Puglia: A Strategic Hub for Clean Energy

The UNLOCK Symposium served as a vital platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and forward-thinking discussions, reaffirming Puglia’s strategic importance in the European clean energy landscape. By fostering SME engagement and tackling regulatory challenges, the event paved the way for a more sustainable and inclusive hydrogen economy.

With momentum building, the insights and connections formed at the symposium are set to propel the region’s green hydrogen sector to new heights, ensuring a cleaner, more resilient future for businesses and communities alike.