GroenvermogenNL invests €19 million in sustainable production of fine chemicals and specialties

GroenvermogenNL runs an extensive R&D programme. We bring together the expertise of knowledge institutes and companies with the aim of accelerating the production and use of hydrogen in the Netherlands. The R&D programme consists of seven themes. One of these focuses on the production of fine chemicals and specialties. This is an economically significant activity, but its production is highly dependent on fossil feedstocks and energy sources. As a result, it generates substantial waste and consumes large amounts of energy. 

Call for fossil-free production methods

It is possible to produce fine chemicals and specialties sustainably using green hydrogen and green electrons. However, there are still numerous technological challenges to overcome. A further step is needed to make these new production routes cost-efficient and scalable. In cooperation with NWO, GroenvermogenNL launched a call inviting companies and knowledge institutes to take on these challenges. 

Consortium of knowledge institutes and companies

Dozens of parties responded to the call. During two intensive workshops, they formed a broad consortium of nine universities, three universities of applied sciences, three research institutes and twenty companies. Under the name HyFINE, they developed a single integrated project plan. This proposal has been awarded €19.3 million in funding. In addition, the consortium has secured €2.8 million in co-financing and contributes €2 million of its own. 

HyFINE: climate-neutral and circular production

HyFINE aims to develop innovations for the climate-neutral and circular production of fine chemicals and specialties through applied research and prototype demonstrations. This is achieved using sustainable sources such as waste streams, green hydrogen and renewable electricity. Beyond developing technologies, HyFINE focuses on training new experts and sharing knowledge, enabling the Netherlands to take a leading position in green chemistry. 

“HyFINE shows what becomes possible when public R&D investments truly bring together partners from industry, science and innovation. By developing new, sustainable processes for fine chemicals, HyFINE not only contributes to our climate goals but also strengthens the Netherlands’ technological position and the resilience of our industry.”

• Jane Butler, programme manager GroenvermogenNL

Want to know more about the research?

Curious about this research theme? Read more about this part of the R&D programme.