The Netherlands is taking a significant step toward promoting the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles, earmarking €125 million for this purpose. The country has unveiled a subsidy program specifically targeting hydrogen (H2) trucks and vans, set to run from 2024 to 2028, with the aim of providing incentives for thousands of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and establishing 40 new hydrogen refueling stations.
Under this program, entrepreneurs looking to build hydrogen filling stations can receive a substantial subsidy equivalent to 40 percent of the construction costs. Meanwhile, for companies seeking to purchase hydrogen-powered trucks or vans, the subsidy offers up to 80 percent of the price difference compared to their diesel counterparts.
Beginning in March 2024, businesses can apply for grants under this initiative. Crucially, each grant application must include plans for a hydrogen filling station, as well as the acquisition of an adequate number of hydrogen-powered trucks or vans to ensure the station’s profitability from the outset. Typically, this means that logistics companies and filling station owners collaborate on funding applications. A key requirement for these refueling stations is that they accommodate both trucks and cars while remaining open to the general public.
State Secretary Vivianne Heijnen emphasized the long-standing promise of hydrogen as a clean energy source for transportation. He highlighted its potential, particularly for entrepreneurs seeking clean long-distance travel options, such as heavy-duty trucks. However, Heijnen stressed that the successful deployment of hydrogen vehicles relies on the availability of refueling stations and a diverse range of vehicle choices. He stated, “It is time for us to ensure that hydrogen delivers on its promise.”
It’s worth noting that the subsidy scheme is still under consultation, although State Secretary Heijnen is expected to make an official announcement in the near future. In June, the Netherlands had previously revealed plans to increase subsidies for the production of green hydrogen, aligning with the goal of producing 4 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of green hydrogen by 2030 and doubling that to 8 GWh by 2032.
Furthermore, the European Union (EU) recently adopted regulations to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen infrastructure across the Union. Member states, including the Netherlands, are required to ensure that hydrogen filling stations are installed at intervals of no more than 200 kilometers along major routes by 2031. Presently, the Netherlands counts a total of 17 hydrogen refueling stations, a number expected to increase significantly with this ambitious subsidy program.
