France-Germany feud heats up over cars and nuclear 

There has been a growing rift between France and Germany over two key issues, namely cars and nuclear power, as they prepare for an upcoming European Union (EU) summit. The first issue centers around France’s desire to protect its domestic car industry by seeking an extension to the EU’s state aid rules, while Germany opposes this move as it could harm its own car industry. The second issue revolves around France’s push to phase out nuclear power in favor of renewable energy, while Germany plans to continue relying on nuclear energy for the time being. This disagreement could complicate efforts to reach a common position on climate policy and other EU priorities at the summit. The article suggests that the rift may reflect broader tensions between the two countries and their competing visions for the future of the EU.

Politico

Finland’s hydrogen industry strengthens with foreign investment from French company Lhyfe in hydrogen project developer Flexens

French green hydrogen producer Lhyfe has invested in Finnish hydrogen project developer Flexens, becoming the owner of Flexens with a 49% share. Lhyfe was interested in investing in Flexens’ hydrogen projects in Finland because of the availability of renewable energy, the favourable price of electricity and the potential for offshore wind power projects in the Baltic Sea. Moreover, Lhyfe was interested in Flexens’ experience in energy market integration, which includes planning for renewable electricity procurement, transfer of electricity and sales of by-products such as heat, oxygen, and steam. 

The investment will also bring know-how and experience in building hydrogen plants, as well as financing and operational support. This investment is significant for Finland because it further cements the country’s position as a leader in the green hydrogen industry, attracting interest and investment from abroad.  

Flexens has eight projects pending, the largest being the Kokkola project, where it is intended to produce both green hydrogen and hydrogen further refined into ammonia for the fertiliser industry and as fuel for shipping. The planned capacity of the hydrogen production plant is 300 megawatts, with production planned to start at the end of 2027.

Tekniikka&Talous, Talouselämä, EnergyGlobal (From Mundus Nordic Green News on Mar 21)

The above French Nordic green news was brought to you by a collaboration between Mundus International and Chambre de Commerce France Suède (CCFS). For more French Nordic green news, click here