A First for Zeeland

The HyER Power Plant is the first system in the Netherlands to utilize this unique combination of technologies, positioning Zeeland as a pioneer in sustainable energy. This project serves as a test case for built environments where both electricity and heat are generated using hydrogen. Erik van der Wal, co-founder of HyER Power, stated: “Over the past year, we have intensively developed our project plan within the Boost the Energy Transition Challenge. As a young company with a new concept, finding the right partners for large-scale testing was challenging. Although we developed a prototype in Delft, a demonstration setup turned out to be the perfect solution. Together with Dockwize, we found a suitable location to start and eventually bring the technology to market: Innovation Hub KAAP at Kenniswerf in Vlissingen.”

Collaboration and Development

HyER Power has collaborated extensively with various partners, including Dockwize, to initiate the project and determine precisely what is needed for the system’s implementation. The project plan includes extensive studies of current and anticipated energy consumption, followed by detailed system designs and installation plans. Erik van der Wal further explained: “The HyER Power Plant will produce electricity and heat from hydrogen for the built environment. This is significant for Vlissingen, turning it into a hub where companies can explore new energy initiatives. Additionally, students from various universities and vocational schools can participate in the project.” Martin Martens added: “The HyER Power Plant project involves collaboration with multiple companies, developing technologies beneficial for sectors such as residential construction, business parks, and smaller industries.”

Recognition and Funding

After a year of intensive work developing project plans within the Boost the Energy Transition Challenge, this promising project has now secured funding from the Stichting Zeeuwse Publieke Belangen (SZPB). This funding is part of the Boost the Energy Transition Challenge by Dockwize and SZPB, aimed at accelerating the energy transition by supporting innovative and sustainable projects. The HyER Power Plant, twice as efficient as conventional systems, has received €332,874 in funding from SZPB to realize the Power Plant in Vlissingen. Martin Martens, jury member of the Boost the Energy Transition Challenge, noted: “HyER Power is an exciting company because they address an essential need for grid operators: flexible deployment of systems. They combine sustainable electricity and heat generation with storage, ensuring complete flexibility in the grid. Innovation Hub KAAP provides an ideal location for testing and development.”

Zeeland Province is currently facing significant challenges due to grid congestion, especially in business parks. Companies requiring new or increased electricity and heat are often placed on waiting lists, making establishment or expansion nearly impossible. This context was crucial in forming HyER Power and developing the HyER Power Plant. The integrated system, consisting of a fuel cell system, heat pump, and storage technology, offers a decentralized all-in-one solution for electricity and heat, enhanced by the smart energy management software EMATS.