The exploration and evaluation of the hydrogen infrastructure value chain for the heavy-duty truck sector in the Netherlands

The exploration and evaluation of the hydrogen infrastructure value chain for the heavy-duty truck sector in the Netherlands

Willinge Gratama, Tjerk (TU Delft Technology, Policy and Management)

Annema, J.A. (mentor)
Correljé, A. (mentor)

Delft University of Technology

Complex Systems Engineering and Management (CoSEM)

2024-06-06

As the Netherlands seeks to transition to sustainable heavy-duty freight transportation to meet the EU’s CO2 neutrality targets by 2050, exploring alternative clean energy options becomes essential. This study examines the integration of green hydrogen within the heavy-duty truck (HDT) sector in the Netherlands, emphasizing the need for a robust hydrogen infrastructure to make green hydrogen a viable fuel option. Given the uncertainties surrounding the current trajectory of infrastructure development, this research investigates the progress of the hydrogen infrastructure value chain, including green hydrogen supply, storage, transportation, refuelling stations, and hydrogen-powered trucks. The study employs a qualitative research approach, combining desk research and semi-structured expert interviews to gain insights into the socio-technical system (STS) of the Dutch hydrogen infrastructure. This methodology facilitates a thorough analysis of existing articles and data, while expert interviews provide deeper insights into the system's performance. The initial literature review highlights various challenges across technological, institutional, and stakeholder domains, revealing a gap in the current understanding of the state of technology, institutions, and stakeholder processes. To address this, the study uses the TIP (Technology, Institutions, Process) framework to evaluate the progress of physical infrastructure within its institutional and stakeholder contexts. Findings indicate advancements in the supply side of the hydrogen infrastructure, supported by policy initiatives and entrepreneurial efforts. However, uncertainties in technology implementation cause hesitancy among stakeholders, with transport companies lacking sufficient incentives to transition to hydrogen-powered trucks. Recommendations focus on addressing supply-side uncertainties and incentivizing the demand side to encourage the adoption of hydrogen-powered trucks. For green hydrogen to become a prominent fuel for the HDT sector in the Netherlands, simultaneous progress in both supply and demand is crucial. The study's qualitative methodology and focus on the Netherlands present limitations, suggesting future research should incorporate quantitative data and comparative analyses with other countries to enhance the understanding of hydrogen infrastructure development globally.

Green hydrogen
Socio-technical system
Heavy-duty trucks
Hydrogen infrastructure value chain
The Netherlands

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Student theses

master thesis

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