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The increasing need for technology that effectively uses the power of hydrogen (H₂) has prompted composite Type IV tank manufacturer  (Heerlen, Netherlands) to consider new ventures, leading to the decision to expand into the U.S, which has significant market potential, according to the company.

“The U.S. is primed for hydrogen generation and technology expansion, simply due to the amount of space and natural resources available across the country,” explains Michael Himmen, managing director of sales at NPROXX. “A good amounts of sunlight and enough water, paired with its expansive size and easy cross-continent access make America the ideal place to produce and distribute hydrogen.”

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The U.S. also provides more supportive vehicle regulations, NPROXX notes. When designing and building hydrogen-powered vehicles, especially in Europe, design development can be limited by the restrictions of road vehicle size. The U.S. has different laws pertaining to truck body length, meaning there is heightened capacity for hydrogen storage on truck designs, and therefore further energy capabilities. This creates an opening for NPROXX to manufacture more efficient vehicles that can embark on long-haul journeys.

Further opportunities for hydrogen in the U.S. market are being facilitated by the government. An  revealed plans to invest $8 billion into Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs as a part of the country’s clean hydrogen initiative. This investment marks the U.S.’ shift towards alternative energy and represents the wealth of business prospects available for innovative companies such as NPROXX.

With regard to how NPROXX will break into the market, approaching business in North America could be achieved by gaining access to an already established site. “Our shareholders, Cummins [Columbus, Ind., U.S.], own a lot of existing facilities in the U.S.,” says Himmen (see “Cummins debuts 15-liter hydrogen engine and partners with Daimler for fuel cell trucks”). “Some of this floor space could potentially be made available to house NPROXX North America.” By 2030, Cummins plan to increase its business activity by 1,000%.

NPROXX aims to find a location and establish a base for its North American operations by the end of 2023. 

Learn more about the growing hydrogen space in CW’s “Hydrogen is poised to fuel composites growth, Part 1” and “Hydrogen is poised to fuel composites growth, Part 2.”