The GreenTech conference proved to be particularly fruitful for the Archenerg-Metál Cluster. Within the framework of the event, a cooperation agreement with the Hungarian Hydrogen Association was prepared, a crucial step in the domestic development of the hydrogen economy. This collaboration can create significant synergies between the cluster's member companies and stakeholders interested in hydrogen technology development.
Additionally, the conference provided an excellent platform for one of the cluster's key partners, Air Scan, to introduce themselves. Through Air Scan's innovative solutions, GreenTech offered them a great opportunity to showcase their activities to a wider audience and connect with potential partners. For the Archenerg-Metál Cluster, the conference was not just a professional gathering but also brought concrete business and development opportunities, strengthening their position in the green energy sector.
The central message of the two-day VI. GreenTech conference, held at the ZalaZONE Automotive Test Track, was articulated by Dr. Anikó Raisz, Secretary of State for Environmental Affairs and Circular Economy at the Ministry of Energy: "without innovation, there is no sustainability." The event hosted approximately 800 professional visitors, featured 20 professional presentations, and offered programs for five hundred students, allowing them to learn about professions and sustainability.
The presentations and roundtable discussions focused on energy, sustainability, artificial intelligence, knowledge and innovation, hydrogen utilization, environmental protection, green construction, waste management, and the future of the international and domestic automotive industry. This broad approach ensured that the conference touched upon all important aspects of the green transition.
Hungary has achieved significant results in energy independence. Dr. Anikó Raisz highlighted that in recent years, Hungary's natural gas consumption decreased by 23.3 percent, exceeding the EU's expectations for two consecutive periods. In 2024, natural gas imports fell below 78 percent due to increased domestic production and the expansion of renewable energy capacity. It is particularly noteworthy that by March 2025, the total solar power plant capacity reached 7831 megawatts, exceeding the 2030 target by a quarter.
Dr. Ádám Nagy, Deputy State Secretary for Industrial Affairs at the Ministry of National Economy, pointed out that the European Union's competitiveness significantly lags behind China and the United States. To address this, Hungary prepared its competitiveness strategy last March, with sustainability and diversification as key pillars. He stated that in addition to government support projects, the "150 New Factories" program will soon be launched, which aims to facilitate sustainable investments through financial and legal instruments. The Archenerg-Metál Cluster fully supports this program as it aligns with its mission.
The VI. GreenTech conference highlighted the vulnerability of our world but also offered hope. Hungary, through the combined efforts of its government, municipalities, and industrial players, sets an example for Europe on how to actively work towards a more sustainable future, while others are still just observing.