The Ports of Amsterdam and Cork have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Irish company EIH2 to establish a net zero supply chain.
Under the MoU, partners will explore the establishment of a supply chain for green hydrogen between Ireland and Europe via the Port of Amsterdam.
This partnership will enable Ireland to maximise its use of offshore wind as a source of energy by providing an alternative route to market for such renewable electricity, the partners said.
The MoU reflects the collaboration between Ireland and the Netherlands and the European approach of working together to become the first net zero continent, according to their joint statement.
“This partnership is the beginning of a supply chain for green hydrogen from Ireland where there is a lot of wind but not a lot of hydrogen demand to Europe where the situation is reversed”, said Pearse Flynn , founder of EIH2.
Earlier this year, the Irish Government identified an additional 2 GW of offshore wind to be used for green hydrogen production and this partnership provides the route to market that is needed for Ireland to become a net exporter of energy over time, the partners said.
“At the Port of Cork Company, we see significant opportunities for Cork Harbour to become a hub for renewable energy, which will benefit the environment, local businesses and create employment in the region”, said Conor Mowlds , Chief Commercial Officer of the Port of Cork company.
The MoU was signed during an offshore wind and hydrogen mission, organised by the Netherlands Embassy in Ireland. The aim of this mission is to increase cooperation between the Netherlands and Ireland in the field of energy transition.