The Belgian Hydrogen Council, NLHydrogen and the German National Hydrogen Council have signed tripartite Memorandum of Understanding to advance the hydrogen economy in Europe.
By signing the MoU, the parties are solidifying their commitment to joint initiatives aimed at advancing the hydrogen economy within the North-West region of Europe.
“The Netherlands, Belgium and Germany are historically main users of hydrogen in Europe, and we are facing similar challenges in producing and utilizing clean hydrogen in different sectors,” said Jacqueline Vaessen, acting director of NLHydrogen.
”Joining forces with other associations to tackle these challenges benefits the development of hydrogen market in the three countries.”
Longstanding cooperation
The MOU builds upon the longstanding history of cooperation and mutual support among Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.
It seeks to establish a platform for collaboration among industry, including ports and harbours, government, universities, research institutes and civil society, to promote innovation and sustainability in the hydrogen sector.
Key objectives of the MOU include facilitating collaborative publications, promoting the widespread adoption of hydrogen technologies and supporting the integration of hydrogen into the renewable energy landscape in alignment with European policies such as RED II/III (Renewable Energy Directive II/III).
Seamless cross-border cooperation between Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany will be prioritised to maximise the impact of hydrogen initiatives on a regional scale.
“The import of green hydrogen from countries with enough wind, sun and space toward the European industry is an important stepstone to reach the European climate targets. Belgium and the Netherlands will be important hubs to transport hydrogen towards the German industry,” said Tom Hautekiet, chairman of Belgian Hydrogen Council.
”This extends to harmonizing regulations and implementing shared infrastructure for import, offtake and throughput. By doing so, we can create a robust ecosystem and establish an import hub in North-West Europe.”
