26 May 2025 – In a pivotal step for advancing renewable hydrogen cooperation between the European Union and Southern Mediterranean Countries (SMCs), the MED-GEM Network launched the Bidding Zone Transposition Analysis for RFNBO Certification Readiness. This strategic pilot study, funded by the European Union, aims to assess whether the electricity systems in Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and Tunisia — as part of a pilot phase — can support compliance with EU RFNBO certification requirements, particularly regarding the concept of bidding zones and geographical correlation. Organised by the MED-GEM Network in collaboration with Hinicio and CertifHy, the high-level virtual meeting brought together national focal points, government institutions, transmission operators, and experts from DG ENER, DG MENA and Gulf, and the European Commission’s Delegation to the region.
To be eligible for export to the EU under RED II, RED III, and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1184, RFNBOs must be produced with renewable electricity that meets strict conditions of geographical, temporal, and additionality correlation. As explained by Rocío Marín Briceño, Project Manager at Hinicio, and Santiago Garcia Herreros, Project Director, the concept of bidding zones—geographical areas within which electricity can be traded freely without congestion—plays a key role in verifying geographical correlation. This is especially relevant when the electricity used for hydrogen production is sourced via the national grid.