Universities of Applied Sciences HAN and Saxion accelerate the hydrogen transition in the region
The hydrogen transition requires technology and people with knowledge, courage, and a collaborative mindset. That is exactly where universities of applied sciences HAN and Saxion are focusing their efforts. Across East Netherlands, they are establishing so-called learning communities—places where students, lecturers, governments, and entrepreneurs work together on real-world hydrogen challenges.
“We are convinced that hydrogen has a rightful place in the energy transition. As a fuel for heavy transport, for example, but also as a building block for other substances, such as the fuel green methanol,” says Benno Aalderink (associate professor of hydrogen technology at Saxion University of Applied Sciences).“Through practice-oriented research, we build a bridge between academic development and professional practice,” explains Carolien Kattenbelt (associate professor of Balanced Energy Systems at HAN University of Applied Sciences), describing the role of Saxion and HAN. To develop and boost learning labs—i.e., practical training locations in the eastern part of the country—HAN and Saxion submitted a joint application to GroenvermogenNL, called H2LIFE. This aligns with the goals of the H2eart consortium, a group of companies and institutions in East Netherlands and parts of Germany striving for a regional hydrogen network and corresponding ecosystem.
Learning, innovating, and doing Business with hydrogen
One of the key focus areas of Benno and Carolien’s joint efforts is human capital. “For a green hydrogen economy, it’s essential to learn, innovate, and do business. We ask businesses: ‘What does education need to do to help you get started?’” says Benno. “The result is that we not only educate students, but also upskill professionals. And we experiment with new forms of education—for instance, by setting up practical labs in the region, where students, lecturers, and professionals work together on real challenges.”
Hydrogen from wastewater
One such practical lab is H2Hub Twente in Almelo (see picture). The goal there is to produce hydrogen from wastewater and then use the released oxygen for water purification—two benefits in one. “Challenges in our region include grid congestion and periods of drought. Hydrogen use can help relieve the electricity grid. However, hydrogen production requires a lot of (drinking) water. And that doesn’t align with the growing challenges around drought. If we can do electrolysis using wastewater, that’s a major step forward. And the oxygen released during electrolysis can then be used for water purification,” Benno explains. “Almelo has a water treatment facility next to the H2Hub Twente, where an electrolysis installation is being built. The aim is to start in January 2026 to identify the ‘obstacles’ we encounter and how to overcome them.”
H2eart strengthens cross-border ecosystem
The communities forming around initiatives like H2Hub Twente are part of the hydrogen ecosystem in the east of the Netherlands and across the border in Germany. “The H2eart project further strengthens that ecosystem,” predicts Carolien. “H2eart also helps strengthen the ties between East Netherlands and Germany,” adds Benno. “Saxion is located close to the German border. We already collaborate with Münster University of Applied Sciences. And there are many more German partners we can involve to expand the ecosystem.”
This cross-border collaboration is part of the broader TECH.LAND initiative—a unique Dutch-German innovation platform that turns geographical proximity into shared innovation power. By connecting partners across regions and sectors, TECH.LAND creates fertile ground for accelerating technologies like hydrogen through joint research, talent development, and business support.
Source: Think East Netherlands