The accelerating impacts of climate change and evolving geopolitical dynamics underscore the urgent need for the Netherlands to transition from fossil fuel dependency towards sustainable, renewable energy sources. Central to this challenge are the nation’s industrial clusters, which not only contribute significantly to CO2 emissions, but are also heavily reliant on fossil-based fuels. Meeting the climate targets outlined in The Klimaatakkoord (Climate Accord), especially the complete elimination of CO2 emissions by 2050, necessitates not only a technological shift, but also a socially inclusive transition that accounts for the workers and communities embedded within these industrial regions.
This project proposes the large-scale implementation of green hydrogen as a key strategy in achieving social goals for the community. Hydrogen produced through electrolysis is presented as a viable alternative feedstock for decarbonizing industrial processes. The vision adopts a multi-scalar approach, combining a national perspective with targeted interventions at the regional clusters. For example, Rotterdam being reimagined as the largest producer of green hydrogen in the Netherlands. Former fossil fuel-dominated zones are re-envisioned as spaces of green experimentation and innovation through the installation of mega-electrolysis plants and the transformation of post-industrial lands into green oases.
Crucially, the project emphasizes an equitable community transition. It introduces a multi-level governance mechanism in the form of a Hydrogen Council, aimed at empowering local communities to participate in the shaping of their post-fossil identities. Additionally, the integration of hydrogen credits is proposed as a tool to incentivize public adoption and normalize hydrogen use in everyday life. These spatial and social strategies are designed to improve environmental conditions, working environments, and the social fabric of transitioning industrial communities.
This approach aims to develop replicable models that can guide similar transitions across the Netherlands. Through the phased implementation of interventions over the next 25 years, the goal is to foster a beneficial relationship between industries and communities: mutualism. In the future, hydrogen is expected to stabilize as the predominant sustainable fuel source, securing its role in the future energy landscape.