Port of IJmuiden issues first hydrogen bunkering licence in the Netherlands

New hydrogen licence to push towards sustainable energy

In an important move towards greener maritime operations, the Port of IJmuiden has been awarded the first-ever hydrogen bunkering licence in the Netherlands. This new development allows hydrogen-powered vessels to refuel within the port, marking a major milestone in the country's push towards sustainable energy.

The licence, granted by the IJmond Environmental Service on behalf of the Velsen municipality, is the result of extensive research conducted by Windcat Workboats in collaboration with the Port of IJmuiden NV and the Port of Amsterdam. This research was vital to establish the necessary framework for safe and efficient hydrogen bunkering at the port.

Hydrogen-powered vessels, such as the Hydrocat 48, which transports crew to and from offshore wind farms, will now be able to refuel at IJmuiden before heading to operations in the North Sea. Windcat Workboats has the ambition to put more hydrogen-powered ships into service in the future. This initiative is aligned with the Province of North Holland’s ambition to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

Amsterdam is laying the groundwork for hydrogen development

Amsterdam is positioning itself as a global leader in the hydrogen economy through strategic initiatives like this new hydrogen licence. Other key projects include the H2Gate Project, a collaboration with partners to create a large-scale green hydrogen import terminal, and H2@Scale, which unites government, research institutions, and private companies to advance hydrogen technologies.

The approval of this licence is expected to benefit hydrogen-powered vessels operating on the planned 21GW wind farms in the North Sea as well as paving the way for future projects. As the Port of IJmuiden leads the way, Amsterdam and the broader region continue to innovate sustainable solutions, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.

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