HyNed China

Hydrogen fuel cell application will play a major role in the energy transition in both the Netherlands and China and is part of the national economic strategy of both countries. In China, the potential of hydrogen in addressing climate challenges, complementing the use of other renewable energy sources like wind, and solar PV, is acknowledged in local and national policy. In the past five years, the country has witnessed a growing interest in hydrogen as an alternative fuel for automotive and energy storage.

1. To introduce Dutch hydrogen fuel cell technologies and establish bilateral business dialogues with potential Chinese partners. Together, we can explore how we can utilise hydrogen technology in building resilient infrastructure, creating economic opportunities through cooperation between companies and research institutions, thereby fueling innovation even further (SDG 9).
2. To establish the reputation of the Dutch fuel cell industry in the Chinese market. The Netherlands has a complete hydrogen supply chain, which is powering through thanks to a strong cluster in and around Arnhem (East Netherlands), the first European Hydrogen Valley in the northern part of the country and the vital role of the Port of Rotterdam, as a gateway to the European market. A wider range of application is also being explored, for example in automotive, energy storage and shipping.
3. To strengthen intergovernmental cooperation between China and the Netherlands, to drive innovation in the hydrogen sector further, from production to application. By combining the use of hydrogen with fuel cells in energy supply and transportation industries, we will be able to take a significant step towards a sustainable future for the next generations.

The Chinese government sees the importance of international cooperation, especially in the high-tech sector, energy transition and public health sectors. As part of their energy transition agenda, China aims to create a full hydrogen supply chain. This means the Chinese government will actively promote the hydrogen industry and the hydrogen applications in the coming years. This creates B2B and B2G opportunities for the Dutch hydrogen companies united in this public-private partnership.

Via this public-private approach, the cluster aims to create market access for Dutch hydrogen related companies in China. By joining forces, being flexible and responsive to business opportunities, the cluster and the Dutch government aim to establish a well-positioned Dutch hydrogen cluster in China within 3 years.

Key areas for investment for hydrogen technology in China are

• Yangtze River Delta – Shanghai and surrounding areas,
• Jiangsu and Zheijiang provinces,
• The Greater Bay Area - Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macao.