CRC Evans, a global leader in specialty welding, coating and project services for energy and critical infrastructure, and Monter Strojarske Montaže d.d. have announced a strategic new European hydrogen partnership.

As part of this initiative, Monter, working in close collaboration with CRC Evans, will deliver a first-of-its-kind European Hydrogen Valley infrastructure project, supporting the development of a pioneering cross-border energy network spanning from the Adriatic coast in Croatia towards Central and Eastern Europe.

The hydrogen project, part of the wider European North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley (NAHV), covering Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy's Friuli Venezia Giulia region, sets the backbone for hydrogen transport and energy transition in the region, while strengthening interconnections within the European market.

Establishing the foundation for the European hydrogen future, the project leverages CRC’s global expertise in advanced welding technologies and Monter’s regional leadership as a main contractor across pipeline construction, supporting the delivery of critical hydrogen-ready infrastructure.

Spanning more than 200 kilometers across three major pipeline sections, each requiring tailored engineering and technical expertise, the network incorporates critical cross-border infrastructure, including hydrogen-ready pipeline systems, with selected sections designed for future transport of up to 100% hydrogen. This positions the project as a new benchmark for modern energy networks in Europe, with all three phases expected to be completed and fully operational by the end of 2026.

Working in close collaboration, CRC Evans is bringing its advanced welding expertise, which is essential for meeting the stringent, high-compliance requirements of local and national hydrogen standards.

Henk de Graaf, Director at CRC Evans, said, “This project represents a significant milestone not only for CRC but for Europe’s wider energy transition. Supporting the development of the first European Hydrogen Valley underscores our commitment to diversifying our capabilities and advancing technologies critical for future energy systems.

“By working alongside Monter, we are solving the challenges of hydrogen transportation and contributing to infrastructure that will strengthen Europe’s energy resilience and enable the safe, reliable transport of hydrogen at scale.”

Stjepan Novak, CEO of Monter, said, “Our collaboration with CRC Evans has been instrumental to the success of this project. Over the years, they’ve been the perfect partner, always bringing world-class expertise in welding technologies and supporting us in meeting the highest standards, which are required for infrastructure plans of this scale.

“I believe that strategic partnerships like this are instrumental in advancing the energy sector across Europe, setting higher standards for quality, safety and innovation, and creating a strong foundation for the next generation of hydrogen projects.”