The EU's new regulatory framework aims to differentiate between "renewable" and "low-carbon" hydrogen, providing strict criteria to ensure emissions reductions. Low-Carbon Hydrogen Definition (Effective Nov 2025): The Delegated Act (EU 2025/2359), published in November 2025, defines "low-carbon hydrogen." To qualify, production must achieve at least 70% greenhouse gas (GHG) emission savings compared to a fossil fuel comparator (28.2gCO2eq/MJ). Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Market Package (Effective 2025/2026): Market Entry: Rules in force since 2024–2025 support dedicated hydrogen infrastructure, including third-party access to networks. ENNOH: The European Network of Network Operators for Hydrogen (ENNOH) is expected to be fully established in 2025/2026 to manage infrastructure, with a 10-year development plan required from 2028. Blending Limit: The regulation permits a 2% hydrogen blending limit by volume in natural gas at interconnection points. Transposition: Member States have until 5 August 2026 to transpose the Directive into national law. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) (In Force/Tightening): Hydrogen imported from outside the EU is covered by CBAM, which imposes a carbon price on imports based on emissions, starting from 1 October 2023, with full application soon. European Hydrogen Bank (Auctions): The third auction is planned for Q3 2025, with a budget of €1 billion, incorporating rules for low-carbon electrolytic hydrogen. United Kingdom (UK) Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard (LCHS) v4 (Jan 2026): Version 4 of the Standard was published, setting clear requirements for hydrogen production revenue support contracts (HAR1, HAR2). Hydrogen Transport and Storage Business Models (2026): The government aims to launch the first allocation rounds for transport and storage business models in 2026. Hydrogen to Power Business Model (2026): A new model specifically for hydrogen-based power generation is launching in 2026. Off-Road Machinery Rule (April 2025): A statutory instrument, effective 29 April 2025, allows hydrogen-powered off-road machinery and agricultural vehicles on the road. UK CBAM (1 Jan 2027): A UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will be introduced, with legislation in 2025–2026.