The Global Hydrogen & Renewable Energy Summit 2025, held on March 12–13, 2025 in Kochi, Kerala, brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and clean energy experts to explore the future of hydrogen and renewable energy. Addressing the summit, Prof. Aravind Purushothaman Vellayani, University of Groningen, Netherlands, shared insights into the Netherlands’ pioneering Hydrogen Valley initiative and highlighted how collaborative innovation can accelerate the global transition towards a hydrogen-based economy.

He explained how the Groningen region has transformed from one of Europe’s largest natural gas hubs into a centre for clean hydrogen innovation, offering valuable lessons for countries looking to build sustainable energy ecosystems.

From Natural Gas to Green Hydrogen

Prof. Vellayani noted that Groningen’s energy transition began as natural gas reserves gradually declined, creating an opportunity to repurpose existing infrastructure for the hydrogen economy.

Instead of building an entirely new system, the region is utilising existing gas pipelines, storage facilities, and industrial infrastructure to transport and store hydrogen efficiently. Combined with the vast offshore wind potential of the North Sea, Groningen is emerging as one of Europe’s most strategic clean energy hubs.

Building Europe’s First Hydrogen Valley

The Hydrogen Valley initiative represents a fully integrated hydrogen ecosystem covering the complete value chain—from renewable energy generation and hydrogen production to storage, transportation, and end-use applications.

The project supports hydrogen-powered mobility, industrial operations, and energy systems while demonstrating how multiple stakeholders can work together to accelerate commercial adoption.

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Prof. Vellayani said the initiative has positioned Groningen among Europe’s leading hydrogen innovation centres and serves as a model for future hydrogen clusters worldwide.

Collaboration Driving Innovation

A key theme of the presentation was the importance of collaboration between academia, government, and industry.

Prof. Vellayani highlighted the role of the New Energy Coalition, which brings together universities, businesses, research institutions, and public agencies to jointly develop hydrogen technologies and accelerate their commercial deployment.

He noted that coordinated policy support and long-term partnerships are essential to reduce investment risks and create sustainable hydrogen markets.

Developing the Next Generation of Hydrogen Professionals

Beyond infrastructure, Prof. Vellayani emphasised the need to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting the rapidly growing hydrogen sector.

He said Europe is expected to require tens of thousands of trained professionals in hydrogen technologies over the coming years. To meet this demand, the University of Groningen and its partners are establishing dedicated education, research, and training facilities focused on hydrogen innovation.

Initiatives such as the Hydrogen Valley Campus Europe aim to connect academic research with industrial applications while preparing students and professionals for emerging opportunities in the clean energy sector.

Expanding Global Partnerships

Prof. Vellayani also stressed the importance of international cooperation in advancing hydrogen technologies.

He highlighted ongoing collaborations with research institutions and industry partners across Europe and expressed interest in strengthening partnerships with countries like India. Joint research programmes, academic exchanges, and technology collaboration can help accelerate innovation while supporting the development of regional hydrogen ecosystems.

A Model for the Future

The session concluded with the message that Hydrogen Valleys represent more than infrastructure projects—they are integrated innovation ecosystems capable of driving economic growth, technological advancement, and sustainable development.

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Participants agreed that combining renewable energy resources, supportive government policies, research excellence, and industry collaboration will be critical to scaling hydrogen adoption globally.

As countries continue pursuing ambitious decarbonisation goals, the Groningen Hydrogen Valley offers a practical blueprint for building resilient and future-ready clean energy economies.

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