Over 300 vehicles powered by hydrogen and 4 hydrogen refueling stations added through subsidy

This year, entrepreneurs are starting to build hydrogen refueling stations again. In total, 8 partnerships will receive € 40 million in subsidies for this. They do this with the support of the Hydrogen in Mobility Subsidy Scheme (SWIM). In addition to building new stations and expanding others, entrepreneurs will also purchase over 300 hydrogen trucks and buses with the subsidy.

Especially subsidies for heavy freight vehicles

The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) implements SWIM. With the funds from the application period earlier this year, 8 partnerships will start expanding the hydrogen network on the road. New hydrogen refueling stations will be built in Meerkerk, Steenwijk, Hattemerbroek, and Woerden. In 4 other municipalities, stations will expand with a refueling option for hydrogen vehicles. In addition, the parties applied for subsidies for a total of 355 hydrogen vehicles, mostly heavy freight vehicles. Applicants also receive subsidies for hydrogen buses.

Fewer problems with the power grid

In addition to battery-electric vehicles, hydrogen is an alternative to fossil fuels. The technology is particularly interesting for heavy transport. Hydrogen vehicles have a large range, short refueling times (maximum 15 minutes), and they cause fewer problems with the power grid. Hydrogen buses can also be a solution for wheelchair buses that are too heavy for batteries.

SWIM encourages alternative fuels

SWIM contributes to the obligation to have a hydrogen refueling station in every urban hub by 2030. Currently, there are 23 public hydrogen refueling stations, some of which are suitable for heavy road transport. Since April 13, 2024, European countries are required to encourage the infrastructure and transport for alternative fuels.

Previous application period 2024

In the first application period of SWIM in 2024, 9 partnerships received subsidies. This led to 2 new hydrogen refueling stations, 3 existing ones receiving expansions, and over 200 additional hydrogen vehicles. More information can be found at nationaalwaterstofprogramma.nl.

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Next year, entrepreneurs are expected to apply for SWIM again in the 2^e quarter. After that, the subsidy will be open for applications annually until 2029.