- NortH2 aims to generate 3-4 GW of wind energy for hydrogen production by 2030, expanding to 10 GW by 2040.
- The project targets 800,000 tonnes of green hydrogen production annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 7 megatonnes.
- Initial hydrogen production is expected by 2027, pending feasibility study results and necessary permits.
- The project could create thousands of jobs in the northern Netherlands.
Project Overview
The NortH2 project, initiated by a consortium, aims to produce green hydrogen using renewable electricity from offshore wind farms in the North Sea. The project plans to generate 3-4 GW of wind energy for hydrogen production by 2030, with an ambition to expand to 10 GW by 2040.
Green Hydrogen Production
Green hydrogen production is expected to reach 800,000 tonnes annually by 2040, significantly reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 7 megatonnes per year. The hydrogen will be produced initially in Eemshaven and potentially offshore, using large electrolysers to convert wind energy into hydrogen.
Infrastructure and Transport
Gasunie's infrastructure will be utilized to transport green hydrogen to industrial customers in the Netherlands and Northwest Europe. A large hydrogen buffer will provide flexibility to manage fluctuations in solar and wind energy production.
Economic Impact
The project is expected to create thousands of jobs in the northern Netherlands, positioning the region as a European center for green hydrogen production. The feasibility study for the project is set to conclude by the end of the year, with initial hydrogen production targeted for 2027, pending necessary permits and investment decisions.
Strategic Importance
Green hydrogen is central to the Dutch Climate Accord and the European Green Deal, offering a sustainable alternative to hydrogen produced from natural gas. The project aims to support the decarbonization of the industry and contribute to the energy transition in the Netherlands and Europe.
