Hydrogen supply and demand: Solving the paradox
The global shift towards hydrogen based heavy duty operations comes with numerous challenges and opportunities. As highlighted by the World Energy Council one of the key challenges to a thriving hydrogen economy is the mismatch between hydrogen supply and demand. There is no demand without supply and no supply without demand. It is a classic chicken and egg paradox.
Here is how we are addressing this challenge at zepp.solutions.
1. Ripple effect: balancing hydrogen supply and 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:
Increased usage of existing refueling stations strengthens their business cases.
Stronger business cases attract new suppliers expanding the hydrogen infrastructure network.
More infrastructure reduces the barriers to adoption encouraging more businesses to switch heavy duty operations to hydrogen.
It is 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 hydrogen supply and demand
At zepp.solutions we are not just waiting for the market to catch up we are 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 does not 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 to hydrogen supply and demand: 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 is not available some companies choose to take matters into their own hands by investing in private refueling stations tailored to their fleets 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 of hydrogen supply and demand one project at a time
At zepp.solutions we believe the chicken and egg problem is an invitation to innovate. Whether it is 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 are committed to building an ecosystem where hydrogen supply and demand grow together.
If you are curious to see how this works in practice check out some of our projects below. And if you are facing a hydrogen chicken or egg challenge of your own get in touch with us to explore how we can help.
Built on the same fuel cell technology: maritime fuel cell systems
In addition to our hydrogen generator sets, zepp.solutions also develops fuel cell systems for direct integration into vessels. These systems are designed to deliver zero-emission propulsion or auxiliary power on board, using the same proven fuel cell modules found in our gensets.
Zepp systems are already operating in commercial and educational vessels. The hydrogen-powered water taxi in Rotterdam is equipped with a zepp.Y50 fuel cell system, delivering clean propulsion on the city’s busy waterways. The Ab Initio, a sustainable training vessel for inland shipping education, also uses a Y50 system to demonstrate hydrogen technology in practice.
These integrations show that zepp’s fuel cell technology is not only field-tested but fully deployable in both onshore and onboard maritime applications.
Our hydrogen solutions.
zepp.G240
This compact hydrogen-electric 240/150 kW genset is a ready-to-go, zero-emission alternative to conventional generators.
zepp.G500
This 10ft hydrogen-electric 500/300 kW genset is an integrated stationary power solution, a true alternative to conventional diesel power systems.
zepp.G750
The G750 is a containerised 750/450 kW generator set for off-grid, cost-effective, zero-emission power.
zepp.G1000
The G1000 is a containerised 1 MW hydrogen generator set delivering clean, reliable, and autonomous power wherever the grid ends.
Want to know more?
Contact us to learn more about the pricing and options for your application.
Other industries.
Transport and infrastructure
In the transport and infrastructure sector, our hydrogen gensets can provide clean, off-grid electricity for large-scale construction projects like building new roads, railways, and tunnels.
Buildings and horticulture
Our hydrogen gensets can supply reliable, zero-emission electricity for climate control and lighting in horticulture, or serve as clean backup power for commercial and residential buildings.
Construction
In the construction industry, our hydrogen gensets provide reliable, zero-emission power for tower cranes and heavy equipment, making them the ideal solution for complying with the increasingly strict low-emission regulations.
Festivals and events
Delivering a unique combination of reliable, emission-free power and ultra-quiet operation, our hydrogen gensets are the ideal solution for powering festivals and events without the fumes or noise of diesel.
