Hydrogen in practice

The role of hydrogen in our future energy system is becoming increasingly important. However, the Netherlands still lacks a location where testing, training and learning can take place on a large scale and under realistic conditions. HyField will change that. In the coming years, an environment in which theory and practice come together will be created in a safe and closed location at Technology Base.

‘With HyField, we are creating a place where emergency workers and grid operators can optimally prepare themselves to work safely with hydrogen,’ says David Bornebroek, director of Twente Safety Campus. ’In this way, we are contributing to a future in which hydrogen is used safely and effectively.’

Richard Lohuis, director of Transition at Cogas: ‘It is becoming increasingly clear that hydrogen will play a major role in the integrated energy system of the future. Cogas wants to respond to this in a timely manner and believes it is important that a good test and practice location for hydrogen is established in the Netherlands, so that grid operators are also well prepared for it.’

Unique location in the Netherlands

At the moment, there is no place in the Netherlands where you can test, train and demonstrate hydrogen on a large scale. HyField will soon offer that space. HyField is being realised step by step. The construction is divided into three phases spread over a period of four years, so that the site can be used more and more for testing, training and education in the field of hydrogen. Investments and construction will take place sooner if demand increases rapidly. HyField will soon be a unique place in the Netherlands. A place where knowledge is shared, new technologies are tested and people learn how to work with hydrogen in practice. There will be room for demonstrations, research and training.

Phased development

The development of HyField will take place in three phases:
Phase 1: Construction of basic infrastructure, including safe hydrogen storage and an internal hydrogen network. This will enable parties such as Gasunie and Kiwa to carry out their tests more efficiently and safely.

Phase 2: Designing the site for grid operators. This could include practising detecting and repairing leaks, replacing pipes and testing valves.

Phase 3: Expansion with a training facility for emergency services, including space for theory, practical exercises and emergency simulations.

The exact order of phases 2 and 3 will be determined by demand from the sector.

Building safety and innovation together

HyField fits seamlessly with the mission of Twente Safety Campus: working together for a safer world. Joining forces with regional partner Cogas will create new opportunities for knowledge sharing, innovation and practice-based learning in the heart of Twente.