People Behind the Project: Sven Parkel

BalticSeaH2 in one word: The future

Sven Parkel leads WP7 in the BalticSeaH2 project, focusing on impact creation, replication and knowledge sharing across hydrogen valleys. He holds a PhD in Chemistry and has a background in technology transfer, startups and innovation ecosystem development.

In BalticSeaH2, Sven’s role is to develop and coordinate knowledge sharing activities that help replicate success across the hydrogen value chain—from the Main Valley to Connected Valleys throughout the Baltic Sea region. WP7 also includes modelling the impact of the hydrogen valley and identifying future market opportunities.

“What excites me most is that we’re building something totally new and unique, with long-term value,” Sven says. At the same time, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out the most effective ways to support the growth of the hydrogen economy and ensure real-world impact.

Despite many partners not having worked closely together before, Sven highlights the strong spirit of collaboration: “The team is incredibly supportive, positive and capable. That really makes a difference.”

His advice to future hydrogen professionals?

“Start broad—chemistry, physics, engineering, or finance—and then discover what part of the hydrogen or renewable energy field inspires you most.”

Get to know BalticSeaH2 in 2 minutes