Groningen at the forefront of renewable energy

Energy transition refers to the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources such as solar, wind, biogas, and hydrogen as the energy source. The aim: decreasing the CO2 emissions, cleaner production, and a future-proof energy system. This shift is vital for the climate, for a more independent energy supply, and provides plenty of economic opportunities.

Groningen plays a pivotal role in this. The region combines its unique location, technical knowledge, existing infrastructure, and strong collaborative culture. Studying, working, or running a business in Groningen means contributing to solutions that start locally and generate an impact around the world. 

Groningen is the Hydrogen Valley of Europe: a powerful region where businesses, government bodies, and knowledge institutions work together on hydrogen innovations. From vocational education to university education: students, researchers, and entrepreneurs are working here on the energy transition. Local SMEs are developing new applications, testing technologies, and contributing to pilot and practical projects. Initiatives such as EnTranCe, the Energy Academy and Energyhub050 provide opportunities for experimentation, practice-oriented teaching, extra training, and collaboration with businesses. This innovative ecosystem promises plenty of opportunities for starters and talents who wish to contribute to a sustainable future and encourages lifelong development with the right skills.

On the Hydrogen Valley Campus Europe in Groningen, educational institutions, researchers, and businesses are working together on clean energy. The campus connects knowledge and practice related to the topics of hydrogen, green chemistry, and energy technology. Students and professionals work together on innovation, education, and extra training for the jobs of the future. 

Phynix: a former oil rig
An important project is Phynix: a former oil rig in Eemshaven which has been converted to a testing ground for offshore hydrogen production. Delft Offshore Turbine (DOT), which specializes in floating wind turbines and energy storage, works together with Shell and educational institutions on research and training within the energy transition.

Groningen Seaports, which operates ports in Delfzijl and Eemshaven, is rapidly developing into the energy port of the Netherlands. Gas from Norway and electricity from offshore wind farms come ashore via these ports. At the same time, businesses such as Engie, RWE, and Equinor are building facilities for hydrogen production. They use electrolysers powered by green energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is distributed to the industry and an international network, which has connections to Northern Germany and the Ruhr Area. This drives innovation, economic growth, and new jobs. The demand for technicians, builders, and logistic talent is growing rapidly in this progressive region.

In Wagenborgen, residents, technicians, and energy companies are working together on a pilot project with hydrogen. The residents of 33 homes cook and heat without using natural gas. They use a hybrid heat pump alongside a hydrogen-powered central heating boiler. The hydrogen is supplied by lorries, and in the future it will be produced locally using sustainable energy from solar and wind power. This ten-year pilot project shows how hydrogen can contribute to a sustainable and natural gas-free future in existing neighbourhoods.

Nine industries in East Groningen are working together as ICOG — Industry cluster East Groningen — to take a major step towards sustainability. They want to reduce CO2 emissions by replacing natural gas with hydrogen. With the support of the government and mutual collaboration, they are launching pilot projects, developing new infrastructure, and adapting their processes. This helps businesses whose production processes cannot easily be powered by electric power to operate more sustainably.