On wednesday and thursday, partners of the NSH2V Ports Project gathered in Groningen for two inspiring days dedicated to the future of hydrogen in European ports.
On the first day, the consortium met to discuss the next steps for the project and the preparation of our first outputs. In the afternoon, the group visited the New Energy Coalition office and Entrance - Centre of Expertise Energy, where applied research, education, and innovation come together to accelerate the energy transition. The visit offered valuable insights into how regional collaboration and hands-on learning can support large-scale hydrogen implementation.
The following day, the NSH2V Ports session took place at the Wind Meets Gas Symposium 2025, one of the leading Dutch energy transition events. Together with Noé van Hulst (International Energy Agency (IEA)), Patrick Walison (Royal HaskoningDHV), Katja Naber - van der Aa (Port of Den Helder The Netherlands) and moderator Catrinus Jepma, we explored how ports can take a leading role in the hydrogen economy, from storage and bunkering readiness to transnational collaboration and the creation of Maritime Hydrogen Valleys.
Discussions highlighted that ports are not only gateways for new energy, but also strategic players in building a resilient, cross-border hydrogen infrastructure. The urgency to act is high and collaboration across ports, industries, and policymakers will be key to making real progress.
A big thank you to all speakers, partners, participants and New Energy Coalition who made these two days so inspiring. Together, we’re building the foundation for a cleaner and more connected North Sea region.