What is VoltH2?
VoltH2 is all about kickstarting the green hydrogen revolution across Europe. The project focuses on designing, developing, constructing, and operating green hydrogen power plants. Right now, the spotlight is on four key locations: Vlissingen, Terneuzen, and Delfzijl in the Netherlands, plus Gelsenkirchen in Germany. These plants aren’t just ideas on paper—they’re actively being built or planned, aiming to produce clean, green hydrogen that can power industries and reduce CO₂ emissions. The first two facilities in Vlissingen and Terneuzen, each with a capacity of 25MW, are expected to be up and running by 2025. And that’s just the beginning.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes VoltH2 stand out:
- Nearly 200 MW of future production capacity across multiple sites.
- Each initial plant (Vlissingen and Terneuzen) will produce almost 2 million kg (1,890 tonnes) of green hydrogen annually.
- Strategically located within North Sea Port, allowing transport by road, rail, and water.
- Local industries can directly purchase green hydrogen to meet their environmental goals.
- A third plant with 50 MW capacity is underway in Delfzijl, within Groningen Seaports.
- In Germany, permits are being sought for a 10 MW mobility-focused installation in Essen and Gelsenkirchen.
- A feasibility study is ongoing for a 100 MW installation in Wilhelmshaven.
- VoltH2 is a collaboration between Volt Energy, Virya Energy, and DIF Capital Partners.
How Does VoltH2 Produce Green Hydrogen?
The magic behind VoltH2’s green hydrogen lies in electrolysis. Simply put, they take demineralized water and split it into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. But here’s the kicker—the electricity powering this process comes entirely from renewable sources like wind and solar. So, the hydrogen produced is 100% CO₂-neutral. This method is a game-changer compared to traditional hydrogen production, which usually relies on fossil fuels and emits a lot of CO₂. VoltH2’s approach ensures that the hydrogen is clean, sustainable, and ready to fuel a greener future.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
VoltH2 plants are cleverly situated within industrial zones and ports. Why? Because these areas already have plenty of consumers for green hydrogen and its by-products—oxygen and heat. Plus, being in ports like North Sea Port means easy access to existing distribution networks. This setup allows the hydrogen to be transported efficiently by road, rail, or water, making it super accessible for local industries. It’s a smart move that supports both production and distribution, helping to build a robust hydrogen market.
The Team Behind VoltH2
Founded in 2020 by André Jurres, who brings over 20 years of experience in sustainable energy, VoltH2 is led today by Arno Luisman. The team is made up of passionate experts who have already made waves in the energy sector. Together, they’re pushing the boundaries of green hydrogen development. Backing them is a seasoned Board of Directors with representatives from CVC DIF and Virya Energy, both known for their portfolios in sustainable energy. It’s a powerhouse team driving this ambitious project forward.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Promoting renewable energy through green hydrogen production.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Developing cutting-edge hydrogen infrastructure.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Supporting cleaner industrial processes in urban areas.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Significantly reducing CO₂ emissions by replacing fossil fuels.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaboration between Volt Energy, Virya Energy, and DIF Capital Partners.
Looking Ahead: The Future of VoltH2
VoltH2 isn’t stopping with the initial plants. The vision is to scale up production as the hydrogen market grows, adapting to increasing demand. With ongoing feasibility studies and permit applications, the project is expanding its footprint in Germany and beyond. The goal? To create a well-developed pipeline infrastructure and a thriving hydrogen market that supports Europe’s transition to a CO₂-neutral future. It’s an exciting journey, and VoltH2 is right at the heart of it.
