Following the guidance of the HyTruck project and Vidzeme Planning Region, a regional spatial development concept for hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS) has been developed. The study identifies Salaspils, located approximately 18 kilometres from Riga, the capital of Latvia, as the most suitable site for the country’s first hydrogen refuelling station complying with the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). This selection was based on criteria such as freight traffic intensity and proximity to major transport hubs, including the TEN-T network.
The developed document can serve as a support tool for public institutions, helping to address spatial, environmental, and economic aspects. It can also be referenced in development planning documents and considered for use in the development of funding programs.
The study results indicate that the Salaspils intermodal freight terminal, located 10 kilometres from the core TEN-T network, provides access to railway infrastructure and has the potential to support the development of hydrogen infrastructure in the Baltic region. The concept recommends initially establishing a small-capacity hydrogen refuelling station (0.5 t/day), which would reduce initial investments, mitigate financial risks, and provide practical experience in infrastructure operation. As demand for hydrogen in the transport sector grows, the station’s capacity could be increased by installing additional storage units.
To support the development of a hydrogen network in the Baltic region, the study also analysed potential locations for hydrogen refuelling stations in Estonia, identifying Pärnu as the most suitable site. This assessment was based on the strategic importance of the TEN-T E67 (Via Baltica) route and the EU’s AFIR requirement to ensure cross-border infrastructure coverage.
The concept highlights that state sector support may be necessary during the initial market development phase. According to the EU AFIR regulation, a future network of stations should ensure TEN-T coverage with stations located every 200 kilometres. The successful implementation of this phase will depend on available funding and growing demand for hydrogen in the transport sector.
During the concept development process, representatives from both the public and private sectors were informed and engaged in discussions. These discussions addressed hydrogen technologies, demand and supply forecasts, and the evaluation of the most suitable locations for the first hydrogen refuelling stations in Latvia and Estonia, in line with AFIR requirements.
Participants emphasized the necessity of establishing a hydrogen refuelling station network to promote the use of hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles. Particular focus was placed on ensuring hydrogen is financially competitive with existing fuels. State sector involvement, such as subsidies and tax incentives, was identified as critical for developing the hydrogen transport ecosystem. The Baltic Hydrogen Corridor and a potential pipeline connection to the European Union were highlighted as vital future infrastructure elements, emphasizing the importance of cost-effective supply solutions.
Additionally, developing the local heavy-duty vehicle market and stimulating demand for hydrogen-powered vehicles were seen as essential prerequisites for advancing the hydrogen ecosystem. However, the conversion of diesel engines to hydrogen fuel was considered unlikely due to technical and legislative barriers. Discussions also included a proposal to explore the use of smaller-scale heavy-duty vehicles and hydrogen buses, which could help generate local hydrogen demand.
The concept was developed by the consultancy firm Ernst & Young Baltic Ltd.
