H₂ Knowledge & Innovation Hub takes off

The H₂ Knowledge & Innovation Hub is set to drive education, research, and innovation in hydrogen technology across the region. This ambitious initiative - co-financed by the European Union - brings together 21 public and private partners with a total investment of  €15.2 million, including €7.6 million in funding from the Northern Netherlands Alliance (SNN), to develop a state-of-the-art testing and training ecosystem over a three-year project. 

Hydrogen (H₂) plays a crucial role in the transition to sustainable energy by offering a clean alternative to fossil fuels. In the Northern Netherlands, hydrogen innovation is essential for reducing CO₂ emissions, increasing energy independence, and driving regional economic growth.

The new and modernized facilities that will be developed during the project will support cutting-edge research and practical applications, fostering collaboration across all stages of the hydrogen value chain. The hub offers  students, researchers, and professionals hands-on opportunities to develop and improve hydrogen solutions in realistic environments. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, the hub will accelerate the energy transition in the region and strengthen its position as an European leader in hydrogen innovation.

Key  goals:

• Develop a place where all hydrogen innovations can be tested.

• Stimulate collaboration between companies, research institutions, and educational centers.

• Equip classrooms for hands-on training to build the workforce that will make the energy transition real. 

• Strengthen Northern Netherlands’ position as a leader in the hydrogen economy.

• Accelerate the energy transition through innovation and practical application.

Building a sustainable hydrogen economy

The unique integration of testing, education, and innovation within the Hub will help Northern Netherlands remain at the forefront of the green hydrogen revolution. Covering all steps, from hydrogen production to its storage, transport, and industrial applications, the hub is designed to support the entire hydrogen value chain. The initiative is a crucial step in developing the future regional workforce and contributes to the large-scale adoption of hydrogen technologies.

The initiative is a crucial step in developing the future regional workforce and contributes to European climate and innovation objectives by supporting the EU’s ambition to accelerate the transition to a competitive and sustainable hydrogen economy.

After the initial three-year project, a dedicated organization will continue to offer training programs and experimental facilities, ensuring long-term support for ongoing innovation, workforce development, and industry collaboration.

As part of the Hydrogen Valley Campus Europe, the hub will continue to evolve, offering new educational programs and collaborative opportunities as the hydrogen economy grows.

Collaboration for the future

The project promotes collaboration between industry, academia, and government bodies to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the hydrogen sector. The hub will serve as a central point for cutting-edge research, training, and knowledge exchange. 

Key partners include:

• Educational & Research Institutions:
  University of Groningen (RUG), Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Alfa College, Noorderpoort, Drenthe College, NHL Stenden, Stichting Technasium, Watercampus CEW, TNO.

• Public-Private Organizations & Government Bodies:
  New Energy Coalition, HyNorth, Groningen Airport Eelde, Municipality of Groningen.

• Industry & Business Partners:
  Resato Hydrogen Technology BV, Holthausen Clean Technology BV, Conoship International BV, Oosterhof Holman, Movares, InnoLab Chemie Groningen BV, InVesta Expertise Centrum, Emmett Green.