JERA Nex bp sees full commissioning of Ostend Hydrogen Bunkering Station

Offshore wind company JERA Nex bp on Friday (7 November) said it has seen the full commissioning into an operational state of a new hydrogen bunkering facility in the Port of Ostend and is ready to begin its demonstration phase. 

The Ostend Hydrogen Refuelling Station seeks to fill a critical gap in the flow of green hydrogen from production to maritime users, acting as a proof of concept of what is possible in decarbonising offshore wind at sea. 

During its demonstration phase in 2025, the station in Ostend will initially serve one hydrogen-powered Crew Transfer Vessel, the Hydrocat 48, owned and operated by Windcat, though has the capacity to refuel several vessels per day. 

The Hydrogen Refuelling Station (HRS) was developed by JERA Nex bp under the EU-funded ISHY (Implementation of Ship Hybridisation) programme, which focuses on the development and validation of hybrid and hydrogen technologies in shipping and ports. 

The ISHY programme is part of the EU’s Interreg 2 Seas initiative, which finances transnational projects in climate adaptation and low carbon technologies and is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund. 

By demonstrating the viability of fuelling vessels with green hydrogen, ISHY aims to significantly reduce emissions and promote climate-neutral shipping in Europe.  

JERA Nex bp led the development of and demonstration activities for the Hydrogen Refuelling Station in collaboration with over ten partners — including industrial stakeholders and research institutions — and with coordination support from the Port of Ostend. Haskel served as the main contractor, leading the construction of the project. The green hydrogen currently used in the project is produced from renewable electricity in France and Germany, supplied by Lhyfe.  

“Research and innovation are at the heart of how we approach the full life cycle of offshore wind projects,” said Kristof Verlinden, Head of Global O&M, JERA Nex bp. “By investing in projects like this, we’re accelerating the shift toward cleaner, smarter offshore operations and proving that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.” 

“With this hydrogen station, the Port of Ostend reinforces its ambition to lead the way in the decarbonisation of the maritime sector. By embracing innovative technologies and strong partnerships with international players such as JERA Nex bp, we’re building a future-ready port. One that unites energy, innovation, and sustainability.” said Charlotte Verkeyn, First Alderman of the City of Ostend.

Photo credit: JERA Nex bp
Published: 11 November, 2025