Information on the target
The merger announced in July 2025 between VDL Hydrogen Systems and Battolyser Systems has been formalized, resulting in the formation of Alquion. This newly established company is focused on the development of the Flexolyser, a fully flexible and high-capacity alkaline electrolyzer designed to seamlessly integrate large-scale renewable energy sources into the energy system. Alquion will outsource the assembly of the Flexolyser to VDL Groep, leveraging the expertise of both companies to bring this innovative technology to market.
As the only two developers of an alkaline electrolyzer for industrial applications in the Netherlands, Battolyser Systems and VDL Hydrogen Systems have combined their resources and expertise, along with over 50 employees, to advance the Flexolyser. This electrolyzer is poised to revolutionize industrial hydrogen production by allowing for easy activation and deactivation without performance loss, thereby enhancing the efficiency of renewable energy integration.
Industry overview in the target’s specific country
The hydrogen fuel industry in the Netherlands is at a pivotal moment, driven by the country's ambitious sustainability goals and its substantial offshore wind potential. The Dutch government has recognized hydrogen as a key component in achieving its climate objectives, aiming for a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. This has led to increased investments in hydrogen technologies and infrastructure, positioning the Netherlands as a leader in the European hydrogen economy.
With a robust infrastructure already in place, the Netherlands is well-equipped to support the growth of the hydrogen sector. The country boasts a network of pipelines and storage facilities that can facilitate the distribution of hydrogen, making it an attractive location for both domestic and international investors. Furthermore, the presence of major industrial players in sectors such as chemicals, steel, and transportation creates a strong demand for green hydrogen, which is essential for decarbonizing these industries.
Despite the promising landscape, challenges remain in the hydrogen fuel industry, particularly in scaling production and reducing costs. The current production methods for green hydrogen are still relatively expensive, which hinders widespread adoption. However, innovations like the Flexolyser are crucial in addressing these challenges by enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs by up to 25%. This positions the Netherlands to not only meet its domestic hydrogen needs but also to export hydrogen to neighboring countries.
The collaboration between Alquion and VDL Groep is a significant step towards building a domestic supply chain for electrolyzers, which is essential for maximizing the offshore wind potential of the Nethe…