In our series about partners in the Fieldlab Hydrogen in Agri project, Jo-Anne Schaaf, affiliated with educational institution Vonk, where she is active as project manager EFRO Hydrogen and hotspot developer New Energy, among other things, is speaking. What makes hydrogen an important development for Vonk? And what can Vonk contribute to the project?
1. What was Vonk's reason to join Fieldlab Hydrogen in Agri?
“At Vonk we believe in education that not only inspires, but also responds to the challenges of tomorrow. That is why we are proud to participate in the Hydrogen in Agri project. Together with our regional partners and the business community, students and teachers discover how hydrogen as a sustainable energy source can play a key role in the agricultural sector.”
2. Can you elaborate a bit? Why hydrogen?
“Electrification is not always the solution, especially in sectors such as agriculture. Hydrogen offers a sustainable alternative and the opportunity to train our students for the jobs of the future. We are working on practical knowledge and skills, support for entrepreneurs in hydrogen applications, and training a new generation of hydrogen professionals.”
3. What can you tell us about the Hydrogen Learning Community?
“We are working together with MBOs, HBOs and companies on innovative projects. What is special? Multidisciplinary collaboration! Together we are advancing the developments around hydrogen. We face challenges, but believe that with continuous dialogue and collaboration we are laying a solid foundation for the future.
At the moment we have an electric superkart that our students maintain and improve with passion. Our dream is to convert this kart to a hydrogen kart in the future! And maybe we will go even further: how great would it be to develop a hydrogen tractor as well? The possibilities are endless – and we are determined to explore them.”
4. The Hydrogen Learning Community is for working and learning professionals. What can they expect?
“For working professionals, we develop practice-oriented courses, tailored to MBO level. The supply is growing, but the demand is still small – logical, because hydrogen technology is still in its infancy. But the future requires technical personnel with expertise in hydrogen. And we are ready for that!”
5. Where do you see the future of hydrogen? And how can we accelerate the hydrogen transition?
“We see opportunities in construction (hydrogen aggregates), heavy vehicles, industry and energy storage. To accelerate the transition, more investments are needed, stimulated by subsidies and regulations. A strong infrastructure – think of filling stations and distribution networks – is also essential. Together we can shape the energy transition. Hydrogen is not a pipe dream; it is the next step!”