1. Ripple effect: creating demand with existing infrastructure
Our launching customer was Terberg Benschop, with whom we developed the first hydrogen-powered terminal tractor (YT203H2), commissioned in the port of Rotterdam. The vehicle operates just a 10-minute drive from an existing hydrogen refueling station in Rhoon. By using available infrastructure, we created an immediate demand for hydrogen without having to wait for new stations to be built.
This approach sets off a ripple effect:
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- Increased usage of existing refueling stations strengthens their business cases.
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- Stronger business cases attract new suppliers, expanding the hydrogen infrastructure network.
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- More infrastructure reduces the barriers to adoption, encouraging more businesses to switch heavy-duty operations to hydrogen.
It’s a simple yet effective strategy: one vehicle becomes the starting point for a chain reaction that shifts both supply and demand into motion.
2. Bridging the gap: working both sides of the problem
At zepp.solutions, we’re not just waiting for the market to catch up, we’re helping to build it.
A great example of this is the DREAMH2AUL project. In this initiative, we developed two hydrogen-powered semi-trucks (Europa) featuring our advanced X150 fuel cell modules. At the same time, our project partner TotalEnergies built a green hydrogen refueling station in the area where these trucks operate.
This dual approach solves the chicken-and-egg dilemma head-on. The trucks need the station, and the station needs the trucks. But it doesn’t stop there, the new refueling station is open to other users too, creating opportunities for local businesses to adopt hydrogen vehicles without the fear of limited infrastructure. This trickles down into new supply chains, job creation, and more.
This model of co-developing supply and demand is also at the core of the Dutch SWIM subsidy programme. By supporting projects that integrate both vehicles and infrastructure, SWIM accelerates the growth of the hydrogen ecosystem across Europe. Zepp.solutions has secured 10 slots to build new hydrogen-electric Europa trucks within this programme in 2024. With an increased budget, SWIM 2025 brings new opportunities for trucking companies looking to introduce hydrogen into their fleets.
3. The DIY route: when hydrogen is the only option
Sometimes, companies face a simple yet tough choice: hydrogen or nothing. This is for instance the case for businesses with energy-intensive operations that require a high uptime in emission-restricted zones.
When public refueling infrastructure isn’t available, some companies choose to take matters into their own hands by investing in private refueling stations tailored to their fleet’s needs. They can then scale the infrastructure alongside fleet growth, reducing costs over time.
While this approach demands upfront investment and patience, it positions businesses as early adopters with long-term advantages. These companies often benefit from operational insights, sustainability leadership, and cost efficiencies as hydrogen infrastructure expands around them. An example is Jos Scholman, a Dutch contractor with two zepp Y50 powered excavators in their hydrogen fleet. The company recently opened their own hydrogen refueling station and are already seeing the benefits of this proactive approach. With an electrolyzer powered in part by their own solar PV capacity, Jos Scholman can produce green hydrogen on-site, reducing reliance on external suppliers while maximizing the value of their solar PV investment. This setup ensures fuel availability for their operations and minimizes downtime risks. The refueling station is also open for business for external clients.
Breaking the cycle, one project at a time
At zepp.solutions, we believe the chicken-and-egg problem is an invitation to innovate. Whether it’s maximizing the use of existing infrastructure, co-developing vehicles and refueling stations, or supporting businesses that are ready to go all-in on hydrogen, we’re committed to building an ecosystem where demand and supply grow together.
If you’re curious to see how this works in practice, check out some of our projects below. And if you’re facing a hydrogen chicken-or-egg challenge of your own, get in touch with us to explore how we can help.
