The energy transition is no longer an abstract concept for many entrepreneurs in the agricultural and construction sectors. It is a daily operational question: how to keep machines running in a future with less reliance on fossil fuels. During a recent demonstration afternoon at Dutch contractor Loonbedrijf Sturm-Jacobs, more than sixty visitors experienced practical answers firsthand.
The demo day, part of the Fieldlab Hydrogen in Agri project, drew strong interest from farmers, contractors, and technology providers. Visitors gathered to see the first JCB hydrogen-powered generator operating in the Netherlands, alongside several electric machines.
Practical solutions for a changing energy market
Energy security and rising fuel costs are becoming increasingly important concerns for businesses. Geopolitical developments and fluctuating diesel prices are creating uncertainty around both availability and affordability of energy, while pressure to reduce emissions continues to grow. The demonstration at Sturm-Jacobs highlighted hydrogen as a promising alternative to diesel, particularly in applications where heavy machinery needs to run for extended periods.
A key highlight was the hydrogen generator, which uses a hydrogen combustion engine rather than a fuel cell. This approach builds on existing engine technology and maintenance expertise already familiar within the sector. For many entrepreneurs, this represents a significant advantage: transitioning to new energy carriers such as hydrogen becomes less complex when it aligns with current technical knowledge and infrastructure.
Entrepreneurs at the heart of Fieldlab Hydrogen in Agri
The demo day offered more than just technology on display. Attendees had the opportunity to see equipment in action, explore electric construction machinery, and engage directly with suppliers and fellow entrepreneurs. Within the Fieldlab Hydrogen in Agri project, new technologies are tested under real-world working conditions. The aim is to assess how solutions perform in daily operations—covering reliability, maintenance, and usability both on-site and in the field.
The fieldlab is a collaboration between entrepreneurs, technology companies, knowledge institutions, and regional partners. Development Agency North Holland North is one of the partners supporting innovation and economic growth in the region. Each partner contributes its own focus area. At the Sturm-Jacobs site, the emphasis is on hydrogen applications in machinery. At the Rainbow Colors flower bulb farm in Andijk, efforts are focused on converting solar energy into green hydrogen. Read news here.
From demonstration to adoption
Practical demonstrations like this play a crucial role in bridging the gap between innovation and implementation. By seeing technologies in action, entrepreneurs gain a clearer understanding of how hydrogen solutions are evolving and what role they could play in future-proofing their operations.
The strong turnout in Wieringerwerf and extensive press coverage underlines a growing momentum: hydrogen is steadily moving from concept to concrete application in the agri and construction sectors.
