The technology is the centrepiece of Fountain Fuel’s first three zero-emission energy stations, which are expected to open by the end of 2023. The first opening will be in Amersfoort, followed by Rotterdam and Nijmegen.

Linde Engineering will supply three of its Twin IC90 hydrogen refueling systems. Each is equipped with two Ionic Compressors to provide gas at the right outlet pressure for refueling passenger cars (700 bar) as well as larger vehicles, such as trucks and buses (350 bar).

Steef Severijn, member of the board of directors at Fountain Fuel, said, “Fountain Fuel is building hydrogen refueling stations in locations where there is guaranteed demand, initially from local governments, entrepreneurs and private frontrunners.”

John van der Velden, Senior Vice President Global Sales & Technology at Linde Engineering, said, “This project demonstrates Linde’s clear commitment to decarbonising mobility through industry-leading technology and reliable solutions. We’re excited to join forces with Fountain Fuel to work together towards advancing a low-carbon society, in line with our own climate objectives.”

To date, Linde Engineering has built and delivered over 200 hydrogen refueling stations globally.

This week the EU Parliament adopted its proposal for new EU rules for infrastructure for alternative fuels, and brought forward the deadline for implementation.

For hydrogen, this means that the distance between stations on the EU’s main roads will be changed from 150km to 100km, with the deadline moved from 2031 to 2028.

If this is finally adopted, this will become a mandatory national target. Member states have until 2024 to come up with a plan on how to achieve the goals.