A framework draft law on the hydrogen market in Ukraine was presented in Kyiv

On 21 July 2025, a round table discussion entitled ‘Regulation of the hydrogen market in Ukraine: presentation of the draft law and next steps’ was held in Kyiv, organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine. The event brought together key players in the energy transition: representatives of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, government bodies, businesses, industry associations, scientific institutions, law firms, and consulting companies.

The round table served as a key platform for professional dialogue among representatives of the legislative and executive authorities, international experts, business leaders, scientists, and civil society organizations. The focus was on the development of Ukraine’s hydrogen energy sector and its regulatory framework.

The presented draft framework law is the first systematic document in Ukraine that lays the legal and institutional foundation for the development of the production, transportation and use of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen. The document was created as part of the UNDP Green Energy Recovery Programme, which promotes the harmonisation of Ukrainian legislation with EU standards.

‘Ukraine has every reason to become not only a consumer but also an exporter of hydrogen to Europe. The draft law is not only about domestic regulation but also the key to European integration, investment and climate responsibility,’ said Yulia Rybak, Programme Manager, Green Energy Recovery Programme, UNDP in Ukraine.

What the draft law provides for:

• Introduction of the terms ‘renewable hydrogen’ and ‘low-carbon hydrogen’ in accordance with European directives.
• Creation of a system of guarantees of origin and certification of hydrogen.
• Basic regulation of hydrogen market infrastructure — transportation, storage, connection to networks.
• Authority for the National Commission for State Regulation in the Energy and Utilities Sectors, Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and central government bodies to develop technical standards and incentive mechanisms.
• Introduction of a hydrogen register.
• State support mechanisms.
• Targets set for 2030.

Participants discussed a wide range of topics, from the technical aspects of hydrogen transportation and certification to integration with energy, environmental, and urban planning policies. Particular attention was paid to the need for cross-sectoral cooperation and the involvement of business, academia, and international partners.

Oleksandr Riepkin, Vice President of the Ukrainian Hydrogen Council, was one of the co-authors of the draft law and presented it during the event. He emphasised the importance of the hydrogen strategy as a driver of Ukraine's energy transformation and integration into the European energy market.

The prospects for hydrogen transportation to the EU, the development of hydrogen valleys, certification issues, project financing, and the role of education and training were also discussed.

Based on the results of the event, a consultation process will be launched involving experts, government agencies, associations and business representatives. There are plans to set up a working group to finalise the draft law, which will then be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for consideration.

This round table marked a significant step toward the full-scale launch of Ukraine’s clean hydrogen market — in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal, contributing to the country’s energy security and strengthening Ukraine’s role as a future exporter of hydrogen to the EU.

The Ukrainian Hydrogen Council expresses its sincere gratitude to UNDP Ukraine for its initiative, expert support and effective organisation of the event. The Council fully supports the development of the draft law and is ready for further active cooperation with all interested parties on the path to forming a fully-fledged hydrogen market in Ukraine.