This discussion paper was developed by CIEP as part of a series of case studies on hydrogen strategies in European and global frontrunner countries organized by Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS). 

The paper discusses the position of the Netherlands in the emerging low-carbon hydrogen economy, national hydrogen strategy and policy initiatives and the international approach of the Dutch government.

Some key findings:

• The Netherlands is in a good position to make a significant contribution to Europe's low-carbon hydrogen market, thanks to its current role as a European energy hub, large chemical industry, geographic location at the North Sea, offshore wind potential and existing gas and oil infrastructure.
• The Dutch national hydrogen strategy predominantly focuses on hydrogen produced via electrolysis from renewable energy. However, there is also room for hydrogen produced from natural gas or waste gases with CCS where applicable.
• In the initial market phase hard-to-abate sectors, such as heavy industry and heavy-duty transportation, are prioritized.
• Internationally the Netherlands aims to position itself as the low-carbon hydrogen hub of Northwest Europe, connecting international exporters and Dutch domestic production at the North Sea with industrial demand centres in Northwest Europe.