On February 27th 2025, MED-GEM Network held a CBAM Helpdesk Kickoff Meeting, marking a significant milestone in supporting partner countries in understanding the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and green hydrogen certification processes. The session was led by key experts from the GIZ International Power-to-X Hub and the EU Commission, focusing on providing guidance and structured assistance to stakeholders involved in renewable hydrogen production and export.

The Mediterranean Green Electrons and Green Molecules (MED-GEM) Network has launched a monthly helpdesk dedicated to Renewable Hydrogen (ReH2) Certification and CBAM compliance for Southern Mediterranean Countries (SMC). This initiative responds to the growing demand for clarity on EU voluntary certification schemes and regulatory frameworks, as many partner countries aim to develop their domestic ReH2 sectors for energy security, economic growth, and potential exports to the EU.

As discussions in the Industry Advisory Board (IAB) revealed, countries are at different levels of readiness to comply with EU certification standards. Given the importance of PtX products, such as hydrogen, ammonia, and green steel, in future EU trade agreements, understanding certification schemes, regulatory compliance, and CBAM requirements is essential. The helpdesk serves as a technical assistance (TA) mechanism to support stakeholders in addressing key challenges in these areas.

Objectives of the Helpdesk 

The CBAM Helpdesk is designed as a structured support mechanism to assist partner countries in:

• Understanding voluntary certification schemes for GH2 and its derivatives, as well as the compliance requirements for exporting PtX products to the EU.
• Gaining insights into CBAM regulations and their impact on trade, including emission reduction thresholds, documentation requirements, and verification processes.
• Addressing specific technical, economic, and regulatory concerns through structured monthly engagement.

Scope of Assistance 

The helpdesk will provide detailed responses to critical questions related to ReH2 certification, such as:

• What renewable energy sources qualify for producing ReH2 under EU certification schemes?
• How is the "renewable" status of energy inputs verified under these schemes?
• What are the key steps in the application and auditing process for certification?
• How are Guarantees of Origin (GoOs) issued and transferred within the EU market?
• What are the cost implications of obtaining and maintaining certification?

Similarly, the helpdesk will address CBAM-related inquiries, including:

• Which PtX products, besides hydrogen, are explicitly covered by CBAM?
• How does CBAM account for indirect emissions from PtX production?
• What methodologies are used to calculate embedded emissions in PtX products?
• How does CBAM impact the competitiveness of PtX exports from non-EU countries?
• What exemptions or reduced obligations exist for certain trade agreements?

Key Expert Contributions & recent CBAM regulatory updates

Antonio Adolfo Fernández Rodríguez, an EU Policy and Regulatory Advisor, elaborated on recent CBAM regulatory updates  at the Opening address by President von der Leyen on the Clean Industrial Deal at the European Industry Summit Feb 26, 2025 in Antwerp ,  emphasizing a shift towards simplifying compliance requirements.

He noted that the reporting obligations have been adjusted, with key changes including:

• A new de minimus threshold for importers, set at 50 tons annually, reducing the administrative burden for small-scale exporters.
• Simplified monitoring and reporting mechanisms for carbon emissions.
• Postponement of CBAM certificate purchases to 2027, allowing more time for adaptation.

Jan-Hendrik Scheyl, a Sustainability and Certification Advisor, provided insights into regulatory risks for project developers, stressing the importance of certification frameworks in ensuring seamless market integration.

Participant Engagement and Next Steps 

The meeting included a round of introductions from national focal points and stakeholders from Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Mauritania. Participants raised questions on the operational details of the helpdesk, emphasizing the need for clarity on reporting processes and the impact of CBAM adjustments. 

The session concluded with a commitment to ensuring the helpdesk remains an effective tool for supporting partner countries. The first cycle of queries will begin in March, with responses provided on a rolling basis.

The CBAM Helpdesk Kickoff Meeting set the stage for structured and proactive engagement on renewable hydrogen certification and CBAM compliance. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, the initiative aims to equip partner countries with the necessary expertise to navigate regulatory complexities and advance their green hydrogen ambitions.