Since 2022, VoltH2 has been working hard on the development of green hydrogen projects in both Vlissingen Terneuzen. With support from the Just Transition Fund JTF), important steps have been taken in recent years to realize these projects, securing the necessary power connections and developing both locations into fully-fledged energy hubs.

In mid-2025, VoltH2 and Return launched a joint study into the integration of a large-scale energy storage system within the energy hub. Return Industrial Solutions (RIS) is leading this project on behalf of Return. This has resulted in intensive collaboration, with RIS joining as a co-developer and partner of the energy hubs in January 2026 and being fully involved in the preparations for implementation.

 The energy hubs will soon be more than just production sites for green hydrogen and connections for large-scale energy storage. Space has been deliberately reserved on the connection to TenneT's electricity grid for local companies to connect and—behind the meter—make optimal use of transport capacity in combination with electricity storage. This creates a flexible energy system in which grid optimization and cost control are central.

From 2028 onwards, VoltH2 and RIS expect to be able to connect other local companies to the electricity grid in addition to the hydrogen plant and the energy storage system. The combination of hydrogen production and large-scale energy storage thus creates significant opportunities for large business customers in the North Sea Port area: earlier and greater availability of connection and transport capacity, lower individual grid costs, better utilization of shared transport capacity, and further opportunities for sustainability.