Establish a strategic vision
Position natural hydrogen as a lever for sovereignty and resilience for Europe.
About
A founding gathering for Europe's energy future
Why this forum
The discovery of vast natural hydrogen resources in Lorraine opens a new horizon for European energy sovereignty. A local, decarbonised resource available within the continent's subsoil, it could help strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy.
In response to these challenges, the European Forum Defence • Civil • Natural Hydrogen brings together institutions, armed forces, industry, researchers and regions to foster dialogue, share knowledge and identify the priorities of an emerging European sector.
The day will conclude with the signing of the Metz Declaration, the founding act of a shared ambition to advance energy sovereignty, the resilience of critical infrastructure and the harnessing of Europe's strategic subsoil resources.
At a glance
- Date
- 16 September 2026
- Venue
- Arsenal de Metz
- Format
- Plenary, strategic session, round tables
- Attendance
- By invitation and registration
- Languages
- FR · EN · DE
The association
Who we are
Since the announcement of the natural hydrogen discovery in the Lorraine basin, H2 Strasbourg has actively supported its recognition and development as a strategic resource for France and Europe.
An independent association, H2 Strasbourg is committed to promoting hydrogen as a lever for the energy transition, industrial sovereignty and European cooperation.
Through the organisation of gatherings, forums and cross-border initiatives, the association fosters dialogue between institutions, industry, researchers, regional authorities and defence stakeholders. It works in particular towards the recognition of the strategic potential of natural hydrogen and the strengthening of cooperation between France, Germany and their European partners.
Our journey
2024
Initiator and co-organiser of the European summit « Hydrogène sans Frontières© », opened by the French Minister for Higher Education and Research and Franck Leroy, President of the Grand Est Region, in the presence of two German secretaries of state.
2026
The European Forum Defence • Civil • Natural Hydrogen, dedicated to energy sovereignty, the resilience of critical infrastructure and European strategic autonomy.
H2 Strasbourg: connecting stakeholders, uniting initiatives and preparing the energy solutions of tomorrow.
Four objectives
Four commitments to establish a European natural hydrogen sector.
Structure a European sector
Create the conditions for coordinated industrial, scientific and economic development.
Strengthen cross-border cooperation
Mobilise European regions and partners around a shared ambition.
Adopt the Metz Declaration
Lay the foundations for European governance of strategic subsoil resources.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the European Forum Defence • Civil • Natural Hydrogen?
- It is the founding gathering dedicated to natural hydrogen as a lever for European energy sovereignty, bringing together defence, industry, research and institutions. It takes place on 16 September 2026 at the Arsenal de Metz.
- When and where is the forum held?
- On 16 September 2026, at the Arsenal de Metz, France. Doors open at 08:15.
- Is registration free?
- Yes. Registration is free and lunch is included. Seats are limited; registration is done through the website form.
- Who can attend?
- Representatives of the armed forces and the Ministry of the Armed Forces, industrialists, researchers, institutions and local authorities interested in natural hydrogen and energy sovereignty.
- What is natural hydrogen?
- Also called white or native hydrogen, it is hydrogen generated naturally in the Earth's subsurface. Unlike industrial hydrogen, it does not require energy-intensive production.
- What is the Metz Declaration?
- It is the founding act adopted and signed during the forum, laying the foundations of a European natural-hydrogen sector.