HEROW: learning, innovating and accelerating on offshore hydrogen platform

This shift demands the development of a robust energy infrastructure in which the interaction between the supply and demand of green electrons and green hydrogen takes centre stage. It also requires efficient transport solutions to ensure that green hydrogen can be delivered directly to end users.

HEROW, the knowledge platform for offshore hydrogen production, is accelerating this transition by developing targeted knowledge and openly sharing it with participants and stakeholders across the hydrogen ecosystem. The initiative is driven by TKI Offshore Energy, DOB Academy, and TNO, with support from the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth (KGG).

Sustainable hydrogen transport

Producing green hydrogen is only part of the equation. Equally important is the ability to transport it safely and efficiently to end users—for example, through dedicated hydrogen pipelines. Developing this infrastructure is critical to enabling the large-scale decarbonisation of sectors that are hard to electrify.

Pipeline transport enables green hydrogen to be distributed affordably, efficiently, and safely to energy-intensive industries, heavy-duty transport by road and water, energy companies, the chemical sector, and regional grid operators. These actors benefit from hydrogen production and distribution infrastructure that helps reduce emissions from industrial processes that cannot easily transition to electricity.

The three pillars of HEROW

HEROW is built on three core pillars that together strengthen the hydrogen value chain:

Knowledge sharing & acceleration

HEROW brings together project developers, researchers, and policymakers in a collaborative network to share expertise and experience in offshore hydrogen. The platform also draws on international initiatives to accelerate scaling and innovation.

Innovation challenges

Stakeholders across the hydrogen value chain are actively engaged in solving technical and logistical challenges. Startups, companies, and knowledge institutions are invited to develop breakthrough solutions that advance offshore hydrogen production and transport.

Education and talent development

Through learning materials, training programs, and the 'Teach the Teacher' approach, HEROW promotes the dissemination of up-to-date knowledge. Educational institutions receive free access to teaching packages, and instructors are trained to use them effectively—helping to build the skilled workforce needed for the future hydrogen economy.

TNO’s role in HEROW

As a strategic partner, TNO plays a leading role in coordinating the HEROW knowledge platform and organizing all HEROW-related events. We contribute to scientific progress, knowledge exchange, and innovation, supporting all three pillars of the initiative.

Drawing on our expertise in offshore technologies, hydrogen production, and energy systems, TNO helps accelerate the development of sustainable hydrogen infrastructure. We work on complex challenges related to offshore hydrogen production, transport and storage technologies, pipeline networks, and the integration of hydrogen into the broader energy system.

TNO is also deeply involved in education and talent development, creating educational content and training the next generation of hydrogen professionals.

The HEROW project is a collaborative initiative supported by multiple strategic and knowledge partners with expertise in offshore energy, hydrogen, and education. The key project partners are:

• TNO – Acts as a strategic partner, coordinator of the HEROW knowledge platform, and organiser of HEROW events. TNO contributes expertise in offshore technology, hydrogen production, energy systems, and talent development.
• TKI Wind op Zee – The Top Consortium for Knowledge and Innovation (Topconsortia voor Kennis en Innovatie) in offshore wind energy. Supports innovation and collaboration in offshore wind and related system integration, including hydrogen.
• DOB Academy – An education and training institute focused on offshore energy. In HEROW, DOB Academy contributes to educational development, training, and the dissemination of knowledge.
• Dutch Ministry of Climate and Green Growth (Ministerie van Klimaat en Groene Groei, KGG) – Provides governmental support for the initiative, likely in the form of funding and policy alignment.

These partners collectively support the development of offshore hydrogen production and infrastructure, and promote knowledge sharing, innovation, and workforce development through HEROW.

Get involved

Want to learn more about HEROW? Get in touch with us or apply to become a member of the community.