Strategic projects application process

This page addresses both the application via the standard application form (for all applicants) and the written request form (for applicants that currently benefit from ETS Innovation Fund, IPCEI, Hydrogen Valleys, Hydrogen Bank, cohesion funding and are located in ‘less developed and transition regions’ or Just Transition Fund territories).

Strategic project application form

Project promoters can apply for strategic project status by following the process outlined below. The relevant EU country will assess the applications and decide whether to grant the status. Applying does not necessarily result in receiving net-zero strategic project status; this outcome is subject to the assessment and final decision of the relevant EU country.

There are two ways to apply for strategic project status: 

Applying by application form
Through this standard way you fill out the application form, the main document required for the process. You must show how your project meets at least one of the selection criteria and provide the necessary supporting documents (see the application form and guide for applicants below for details).

Applying by written request form
Alternatively, use the written request form instead of the application form for a simplified recognition process if your project already benefits from 

• the ETS Innovation Fund
• Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) 
• European Hydrogen Valleys
• the Hydrogen Bank
• those in ‘less developed and transition regions’ or Just Transition Fund territories eligible for cohesion policy funding (and where the award procedure is complete)

You can find both forms below. See the guide for applicants and the FAQ for further information on the application process.

Application process

Application form

Written request form

The guide for applicants includes draft layouts of both the written request form and the application form, complete with all questions.

Guide for applicants

FAQs

To ensure your application is eligible, please follow the recommended steps below.

1. Create an EU Login account 
2. Fill out the application form or written request form (see above which applies to your case), confirm, and save it as a PDF 
3. Once the Commission considers the application eligible, it will create an account for you on the EU Send Web system (You will automatically receive a confirmation via e-mail)
4. Submit the following via the EU Send system

• a PDF version of the completed application form
• supporting documents as listed in the application form and guide for applicants 

When completing the application or written request form, you must provide personal data. Please consult the privacy statement.

By signing the application form, you agree to the privacy statement.