Within the INTERREG project NS H2V Ports, the ports of Brest, Esbjerg, Bremen and Den Helder join forces to develop concrete roadmaps that form the basis for maritime Hydrogen Valleys. This ambitious project brings together relevant stakeholders to further develop and realise the hydrogen programmes in these ports. An important milestone was the second consortium meeting in Esbjerg on 24 and 25 February.
In developing four master plans simultaneously, the focus is on identifying and exploiting synergies. We do this by standardizing concept designs and use cases, as well as sharing best practices. In addition, the ecosystems strengthen each other through joint external communication, lobbying activities and the development of import and export corridors for hydrogen. The power of collaboration is already visible in the stakeholder meetings that have been organized in all four ports.
An important milestone was the second consortium meeting in Esbjerg on 24 and 25 February. Here Development Company North Holland North (ONHN) and New Energy Coalition (NEC) present on behalf of the Port of Den Helder. During this two-day meeting, the focus was on exploring opportunities for a robust hydrogen infrastructure along the North Sea coast.
What were the highlights of the visit? For each of the participants this will yield a different answer, but for Robin Bäcker and Giulietta Cohen (photo) of ONHN the following points are at the top.
In the coming period, ONHN and coordinator NEC will commit to holding discussions with hydrogen producers, consumers, infrastructure developers and other stakeholders. The goal is to map out the plans and challenges and take concrete steps towards implementation. Experts within the consortium will help overcome barriers in the market, investigate financing options and develop strategies for the realization of the hydrogen roadmaps.
By working together, we accelerate the implementation of maritime value chains and contribute to a sustainable and future-proof hydrogen economy in the North Sea region. This project is not only an opportunity, but also a necessary step towards a carbon-neutral maritime sector.
