From hydrogen ambition to cross-border action in the Benelux

The Benelux has all the ingredients to become Europe's leading hydrogen hub. The next challenge is to turn this potential into a truly integrated cross-border hydrogen market. This was the central message of the Benelux Hydrogen Event, held on 26 October at the Benelux House in Brussels, as a kick-off to European Hydrogen Week. Co-organised by WaterstofNet, the Benelux Union, RVO and the Consulate-General of the Netherlands in Antwerp, the event brought together industry leaders, infrastructure operators and policymakers from Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Discussions focused on three priorities: developing an interconnected hydrogen backbone, using hydrogen production to alleviate electricity grid congestion, and accelerating hydrogen deployment in heavy-duty transport. Looking ahead, the discussions could provide the basis for a more structured Benelux hydrogen cooperation agenda, including harmonised implementation of European legislation, aligned technical standards, coordinated funding mechanisms and joint advocacy towards the EU. The upcoming Belgian Presidency of the Benelux in 2027 could offer an opportunity to translate these ambitions into concrete initiatives, potentially starting with a joint roadmap and a limited number of flagship cross-border projects. The overarching conclusion: rather than waiting for European harmonisation, the Benelux should take the lead in shaping it.