Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a key solution for decarbonizing the Dutch energy system, particularly within the industrial sector. A national hydrogen network is under development to serve the five major industrial clusters in the Netherlands. However, meeting the hydrogen needs of the industries outside these clusters, which are collectively known as “Cluster 6”, remains difficult. Regulatory unclarity and ambiguity around the hydrogen distribution infrastructure, including restrictions on distribution system operators (DSOs), compound these challenges. This study investigates the complex and evolving regulatory landscape for hydrogen distribution across Cluster 6 in the Netherlands using a two-step approach of Institutional Network Analysis (INA) and stakeholder interviews. Findings outline possible pathways for delegating distribution responsibilities in current and future regulatory frameworks while stakeholders report structural and outcome uncertainty, limiting their willingness to invest in hydrogen distribution initiatives. The research findings highlight the need for a more coherent regulatory and technical framework to support more effective development of physical hydrogen systems. Policy recommendations include clarification of distributor roles, targeted support mechanisms, and flexible regulations that can adapt to the rapidly developing hydrogen market.

Integrating hydrogen into energy systems presents challenges involving social dynamics among stakeholders beyond technical considerations. A gap exists in understanding how these dynamics influence the deployment of hydrogen technologies and infrastructure, particularly in infrastructure development and market demand for widespread adoption. In the Netherlands, despite ambitious strategies and investments, comprehensive explanations of social dynamics' impact on integration processes and market development are lacking. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the hydrogen value chain and stakeholder interactions in the Dutch hydrogen sector. A literature review highlights system integration challenges and the need for decentralized coordination and cross-sector collaboration. Using the Dutch energy grid and its hydrogen initiatives as a case study, social network analysis and semi-structured interviews are applied to analyze over 60 hydrogen initiatives involving more than 340 stakeholders. Initiatives are categorized into large-scale centralized and decentralized local types based on scale and stakeholder involvement, allowing targeted analysis of stakeholder interactions in different contexts. Findings reveal that centralized networks may limit innovation due to concentrated influence, while decentralized networks encourage innovation but require better coordination. These insights guide strategic planning and policymaking in hydrogen energy initiatives, aiming to enhance scalability and efficiency of hydrogen technologies for sustainable energy solutions.

As the transition to sustainable energy intensifies, hydrogen emerges as a pivotal medium in mitigating climate change and improving energy security. While its applicability across various sectors is undeniable, its integration into established energy systems presents multifaceted challenges. This study investigates the complexities of integrating hydrogen into the Netherlands' energy systems. Beyond technological advancements, the successful design and rollout of a hydrogen supply chain require coordination and collaboration among a myriad of stakeholders. Through a mixed-methods approach, this study combines findings from a broad literature review, policy document analyses, evaluation of 59 field projects, and engaging dialogues with 33 key stakeholders from different sectors. This investigation led to the identification and categorization of key players in the Dutch hydrogen sector, revealing their interconnected roles and the challenges encountered in the hydrogen integration process. The study further categorized the identified challenges faced by stakeholders into five core domains: technical, infrastructural (including supply chain), socioeconomic, environmental, and institutional, with associated factors. Prominent challenges include transportation infrastructure upgrades, high initial costs and scalability, effective storage methods, safety and cybersecurity measures, storage and distribution infrastructure, security of supply, and public acceptance. This study contributes to the hydrogen integration discourse, offering insights for academics, industry, and policymakers. Its detailed stakeholder analysis, holistic categorization of challenges across five domains, and a stakeholder-centric approach grounded in real-world dialogues offer applicable frameworks beyond its primary context. In this vein, it guides future research and decisions, and its approach is adaptable for different regions or sectors, emphasizing comprehensive transition strategies.

Distributed hydrogen infrastructures have emerged as a complementary element in the quest for sustainable energy solutions, with potential applications in regions featuring high industrial demands and spatially resolved negative residual loads. These infrastructures can contribute to the decarbonization of electricity, heating, and transport sectors while enhancing local renewable energy consumption and supporting energy storage and demand-side management. However, their development presents unique design challenges, calling for a comprehensive understanding of stakeholder roles and relationships in the evolving ecosystem. This study examines stakeholder network dynamics within the distributed hydrogen ecosystem, focusing on the Netherlands' built environments. Through the analysis of 16 case studies, we employ Social Network Analysis (SNA) to identify and analyse stakeholder network involved in the early design and implementation of distributed hydrogen infrastructures. Our findings highlight emerging roles and interests due to the rise of such infrastructures, emphasizing the need for adaptable stakeholder relations. Design plays a critical role in this context, enabling stakeholders to navigate challenges, innovate, and foster collaboration. The paper explores stakeholder categories, providing insights into their interactions and coordination strategies. Ultimately, our study offers valuable guidance to practitioners and policymakers, promoting stakeholder collaboration for successful distributed hydrogen infrastructure deployment in pursuit of a sustainable, low-carbon energy future.