Artikel
De toekomst van groene waterstof: Hoe elektrolyse de energietransitie aanstuurt
Electrolysis is the key technology for a sustainable energy supply. But what makes this technique so important, what types are there, and how can the Netherlands take the lead?
In the global energy transition, hydrogen is playing an increasingly important role. As a clean energy carrier, hydrogen can replace fossil fuels in sectors where electrification is difficult. Ideally, this hydrogen is produced via electrolysis: a process in which water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity from renewable sources. This makes it possible to store surplus solar and wind energy in the form of hydrogen—a crucial step toward a CO₂-neutral economy.
Five Technologies
Electrolysis is the process in which water (H₂O) is split into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) using electricity. If that electricity comes from solar or wind power, the process is entirely CO₂-free. This makes electrolysis a cornerstone of the hydrogen economy.
There are several electrolysis technologies, each with unique characteristics and applications. The most established technique is alkaline electrolysis, which uses a liquid alkaline solution such as potassium hydroxide to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
This method is robust, relatively inexpensive, and has been used in industry for decades. It is particularly suitable for large-scale applications with a stable energy supply, such as in the chemical industry or by energy companies producing hydrogen for storage or fuel.
A more advanced technology is Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis, which uses a solid polymer membrane and precious metals like platinum and iridium. PEM electrolyzers are more compact, respond quickly to fluctuating energy input, and produce very pure hydrogen. This makes them especially suitable for applications where flexibility is essential, such as integration with solar or wind farms, or in the transport sector where hydrogen must be readily available.
Solid Oxide Electrolysis (SOEC) operates at high temperatures between 500 and 800 degrees Celsius and uses ceramic membranes. This technology is highly efficient, especially when waste heat from industrial processes can be utilized. In addition to hydrogen, SOEC can also produce syngas—a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide used as a feedstock for fuels and chemicals. Although the efficiency is high, the investment costs are significant, and the system is more prone to wear under low loads.
A promising emerging technology is Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolysis. This method combines features of alkaline and PEM electrolysis but uses cheaper materials without precious metals. As a result, AEM is more affordable and attractive for small-scale, decentralized applications such as local energy storage in residential areas or by small energy producers. The technology is still in development, with room for improvement in efficiency and lifespan.
Finally, there is CO₂ electrolysis, an innovative technique that directly converts carbon dioxide into valuable products such as methanol or ethylene. This technology offers a unique opportunity not only to reduce CO₂ emissions but also to convert them into useful raw materials. Although CO₂ electrolysis is still largely in the research phase and involves high energy costs, it fits perfectly within a circular economy and represents a promising path toward climate neutrality.
A Unique Position
The Netherlands is uniquely positioned to play a leading role in the global hydrogen economy. Thanks to a strong high-tech sector, a strategic location in Europe, and a well-developed energy and logistics infrastructure, the country offers fertile ground for the development and production of electrolysis technology.
The presence of knowledge institutions, innovative start-ups, and established industrial players enables collaboration on the next generations of electrolyzers. By leveraging expertise from sectors such as the semiconductor and automotive industries, the Netherlands can develop high-quality, efficient, and affordable electrolyzer components.
Moreover, the growing demand for green hydrogen both domestically and internationally presents opportunities for Dutch companies to position themselves as leading suppliers of electrolysis equipment and systems. By investing now in research, automation, and scaling up, the Netherlands can not only contribute to the energy transition but also achieve economic growth and strengthen technological independence.