DNV GL, the world’s largest energy consultant and certification body, will invest in a new hydrogen innovation center in Groningen.
The Groningen branch of DNV GL will move mid-2021 to the Zernike Campus, part of Campus Groningen.
DNV GL and Kadans Science Partner have signed a letter of intent for the development of a new multi-tenant building. Developer Kadans Science Partners is realizing “Plus Ultra Groningen” on the Zernike Campus, a modern company building where DNV GL with its 80 energy experts, laboratories and test facilities will be one of the main residents. Hydrogen research is given a prominent position in the new complex.
DNV GL expertise center is a globally operating organization in quality management, risk management and consultancy, active in the maritime and energy sector. The head office is located in Hovik (near Oslo) in Norway. DNV GL has branches in Rotterdam, Arnhem and Groningen in the Netherlands. The DNV GL site in Groningen has developed into the expertise center for future energy systems, sustainable fuels, new technologies and smart energy networks within the global organization.
“After more than 40 years at our current location on the Energieweg in Groningen, we were ready for the next step. The move to a sustainable building with ultramodern test facilities in a dynamic and stimulating campus environment is a wonderful step forward for our Groningen location and our employees. We look forward to being part of the lively eco-system on the Zernike Campus, “said Johan Knijp, country manager for Oil & Gas in DNV GL.
Hydrogen leader
In the new laboratories and test facilities to be realized, the transition to a sustainable energy system plays an important role. Knijp: “Many of our testing and research programs focus on the use of sustainable gases, such as biogas and hydrogen. We work with local and international parties on the energy world of tomorrow. The Northern Netherlands has recently been designated by Brussels as the first ‘Hydrogen Valley’ in Europe. The region has everything to become a leader in the energy transition. With these investments, DNV GL will make its contribution to new test facilities and laboratories. One of the innovation labs will be set up as a hydrogen laboratory. New technology is developed and tested together with customers. ”As an example, Knijp mentions: “We recently started this with a multi-year innovation program for the application of hydrogen in the production of glass, ceramics, steel and stone. 25 partners from home and abroad and the Dutch government participate in the project. It is our ambition to start more such innovation cooperation projects in the coming years. ”
New connections
In the new building ‘Plus Ultra Groningen’ there is room for several innovative knowledge companies in the energy, chemistry, life sciences, and big data. “Plus Ultra” means “ever further”, referring to the drive to continue to innovate and improve. Developer Kadans Science Partners realizes a sustainable building that stimulates meetings, collaborations and knowledge sharing between residents. Knijp: “The innovative concept of Plus Ultra Groningen fits perfectly with DNV GL. The move to the enterprising and lively Zernike Campus Groningen is a deliberate choice for DNV GL. Our partnership with New Energy Coalition and the collaboration with Entrance, Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen and the University of Groningen make us an important part of the dynamic ecosystem on campus.
About DNV GL
DNV GL is a globally operating organization in the field of quality assurance and risk management. DNV GL aims to protect life, property and the environment, thereby helping organizations to promote the safety and sustainability of their business.
We offer classification, technical security, software and independent expert advice services to the maritime, oil and gas, energy and sustainable industry. We also offer certification, supply chain and data management services to customers in a wide range of industries. Our experts are active in more than 100 countries and help customers to make the world safer, smarter and greener.
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