H2B – Is Hydrogen the Right Solution for Energy-Intensive SMEs?

New Interreg Project H2B Provides Entrepreneurs with Clarity on Hydrogen as an Energy Solution

Over the next four years, 100 energy-intensive SMEs will have the opportunity to assess whether hydrogen is a suitable solution to their energy challenges. That is the goal of the new Interreg project “Hydrogen to Business” (H2B). The project helps entrepreneurs in the Netherlands and Germany gain an overview of the possibilities offered by hydrogen; they can then decide whether hydrogen is actually a good fit for their business operations. This enables entrepreneurs to make informed decisions about a future-proof energy supply.

First, get the big picture; then make the right decision

Grid bottlenecks, high energy costs, and stricter climate regulations are forcing more and more business owners to make difficult decisions. Electrification does not always offer a solution. H2B therefore helps companies gain an overview of the opportunities that hydrogen offers. Experts and universities work together with business owners to analyse which path to sustainability best fits their operational management. In doing so, they examine various forms of hydrogen, hydrogen carriers, and existing technologies. The result is a concrete recommendation that enables business owners to make a well-considered decision about their next step.

“Many business owners feel the urgency to become more sustainable, but above all, they are looking for clarity on which solution is best for their company. H2B provides that clarity. By first carefully evaluating the options, business owners can invest with confidence in a solution that is technically and economically suited to their situation.”

– Liane van der Veen, Director of Business Development at Oost NL

From Analysis to Practice

If hydrogen proves to be a promising solution, H2B helps entrepreneurs actually take that step. Companies can test a technology or prototype in a real-world environment with a grant of up to 20,000 euros.

Promising solutions are then further developed into a pilot project with a grant of up to 150,000 euros. In this way, H2B shortens the path from analysis to application, and innovations are put into practice more quickly.

Working Together on Sustainable Energy Solutions

H2B brings together companies, research institutions, and innovation partners from the Netherlands and Germany. In the coming years, the project will support 100 feasibility studies, 30 field trials, and 6 pilot projects. In this way, H2B accelerates the adoption of hydrogen innovations and helps entrepreneurs take steps toward a sustainable energy supply with less risk.

As the lead partner of H2B, Oost NL works closely with TFM Münster, Energy Hub Emsland, NOM, Münster University of Applied Sciences, Hanze University, Saxion University, Westphalian University of Applied Sciences, and ZBT – The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center.

Discover what H2B can do for your business

Does your company have high energy needs, and would you like to explore whether hydrogen fits into your sustainability strategy? H2B offers access to expertise, practical facilities, and financial support to help you make an informed decision.

Would you like to learn more or participate? Please contact Kirsten Nijland at kirsten.nijland@oostnl.nl.

This project is funded by the European Union and the Interreg partners as part of the Germany-Netherlands Interreg Program.

Partner

Contact

Deborah Rapp

+49 203 7598-2477

d.rapp@zbt.de

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