- YEP Hydrogen Valley Tour – 29 September 2023
The tour focused on the future of hydrogen in the Netherlands and on the possible opportunities and challenges related to the system integration of this clean fuel. To gain a better understanding of the requirements for a system wide integration of hydrogen, we visited organizations that will be, and maybe already are somewhat, at the core of the production, transportation and consumption of hydrogen.
The tour started in the Eemshaven, where we received an introduction from Groningen Seaports. Here, is where the NorthH2 program is based, a project being funded by Shell, Equinor, RWE and Eneco. This is planned to be one of the largest production facility of hydrogen in Europe. One of the reasons the Eemshaven is chosen to be the location for this hydrogen project is that a large portion of the offshore wind will land at this location. It is therefore expected that Eemshaven will become an important hub for the future production of hydrogen, not only for the Netherlands but likely also for neighbouring countries.
After our exploration of all the existing energy infrastructure in the port, we travelled to Gasunie’s headquarters in Groningen. Here, we learned about the infrastructure needed to support the hydrogen grid in the Netherlands and about the 5 salt caverns that are currently under construction in Zuidwending. These salt caverns are being built to store methane. However, in the future they could be repurposed to store hydrogen. We even got a chance to stand inside a virtual salt cavern, this was a very cool experience!
Lastly, we visited Qbuzz. Qbuzz is making an active effort to electrify their bus fleet to meet climate targets. However, to explore alternatives, they also explored the feasibility of the implementation of hydrogen in their bus fleet. They currently have two hydrogen buses that are being used to transport passengers in Groningen! These busses are being powered by green certified hydrogen provided by Shell which is partially being subsidized by OV bureau.
On this trip we saw how complex the integration of hydrogen is into the current supply chain. The need for early commitments, dependency and large investments seems to be whats currently holding back the implementation of hydrogen. However, the existing Hydrogen Valley in Groningen shows that the implementation is feasible.
- YEP and Deloitte: A Pathway to a Hydrogen World – 24 May 2023
Together with Deloitte, we had a fantastic afternoon diving into the current situation and potential of Hydrogen in the Energy transition. It was truly enlightening!
To demonstrate the immense potential, our member Gasunie showcased their Hydrogen car, which is one of practical application of this clean energy source.
Moreover, it was a wonderful opportunity to connect and build relationships. We enjoyed getting to know each other better, exchanging ideas and insights. And of course, we ended the afternoon on a high note with some refreshing drinks. Let’s continue working together towards a greener future powered by Hydrogen!
- Hosted by YEP member: TenneT – 9 March 2023
TenneT hosted a great event on March 9th with Professor Peter Palensky from TU Delft giving us his Hidde Nijland talk on Digital Energy. The lecture covered various topics, such as intelligent electrical power grids, cyber security, AI, peer-to-peer energy exchange and more. Professor Palensky’s expertise and insights provided a captivating and educational experience for everyone who attended.
Attendees from both technical and non-technical backgrounds were able to broaden their horizons on the cutting-edge developments in digital energy. The presentation was engaging and thought-provoking, leaving us inspired and eager to learn more.
After the lecture, we had a chance to network with colleagues while enjoying some drinks. It was a great opportunity to share our thoughts on the lecture and make new connections. We look forward to hosting more events like this in the future.
- Re-Power YEP! Networking Borrel in Utrecht – 1 February 2023
Our networking event on was a success! We brought together more than 25 young energy professionals from various companies, including TenneT, New Energy Coalition, and Accenture, for a night of speed dating and networking. It was a fantastic opportunity for participants to expand their professional networks, learn about new industry developments and engage in meaningful conversations with peers.
We would like to thank everyone who attended and made the event such a memorable experience. We are looking forward to organizing more events like this in the future and creating more opportunities for young energy professionals to connect and grow.
