Dad’s Radical Climate Decision: Shifts Company from Oil to Green Hydrogen, Shocking Industry

A Bold Transition in the Energy Sector

Initially, working in the oil and gas sector provided Jordi Zonneveld with promising opportunities. He secured a job at a company specializing in separating oil and gas from salty water, despite having studied aviation. By age 21, he was managing engineering teams, and his career progressed swiftly at Frames Group.

However, the industry faced a severe downturn in 2015 when oil prices plummeted, and major projects were halted. This coincided with the Paris climate agreement, which compelled countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “The whole world is declaring to phase out fossil fuels,” Zonneveld remarked.

Zonneveld, now a father, couldn’t envision a future resting on fossil fuels. His role in top management provided a unique vantage point to steer the company towards a cleaner future. He realized that their expertise in gas separation could be leveraged for green hydrogen production.

Hydrogen, when produced cleanly, acts like a battery, storing energy without harmful emissions. This realization spurred Zonneveld to advocate for green hydrogen, utilizing clean electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.

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The Challenge and the Vision

Zonneveld’s vision wasn’t universally accepted within Frames Group. Some colleagues were skeptical about abandoning fossil fuels. Nonetheless, Zonneveld was determined to lead the way, pushing for green hydrogen production.

Within five years, he managed to increase the company’s clean hydrogen business to 10%. Around the same time, Plug Power, a clean energy company focused on hydrogen and fuel cells, was expanding its hydrogen operations.

The two companies shared a common goal: helping clients decarbonize their operations. Plug Power decided to acquire Frames Group in 2021, aligning with Zonneveld’s vision. Plug Power CEO Andy Marsh described Zonneveld as a visionary leader.

The acquisition allowed Plug Power to aim for producing over 1,000 tons of green hydrogen daily by the decade’s end. Despite challenges, including market volatility and profitability issues, Plug Power secured significant clients like Amazon.

Achievements and Future Prospects

With the Biden administration offering tax credits for clean hydrogen, Plug Power stands to benefit. The Department of Energy is also financing up to six hydrogen production plants. Plug Power’s first clean hydrogen plant opened in Georgia, with additional facilities in New York.

• Amazon uses Plug Power’s technology in 80 warehouses, running forklifts on clean hydrogen.
• Amazon also produces its own clean hydrogen in Colorado using Plug Power’s electrolyzers.
• Plug Power is set to receive substantial financial support to expand its clean hydrogen infrastructure.

Frames’ Netherlands office is completing its last oil and gas projects under Zonneveld’s leadership. Marsh regards Zonneveld as a “dreamer” for envisioning a sustainable future.

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At 39, Zonneveld has embraced his role in the energy transition. He drives a hydrogen car and discusses climate change with his eldest daughter. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to moving away from fossil fuels.

A Personal Commitment to the Future

Zonneveld’s dedication extends to his personal life. He drives a hydrogen car and educates his children about the importance of clean energy. His eldest daughter, though young, understands the necessity of this transition.

He hasn’t yet had detailed conversations with his younger daughters, but he is confident they will appreciate his efforts as they grow older. His pride in being part of the solution is evident in his words: “We made a change.”

Zonneveld’s journey from oil and gas to green hydrogen exemplifies a transformative shift towards sustainability. His story is a testament to the impact of individual choices on broader industry changes.

As the world grapples with climate change, Zonneveld’s actions inspire hope and demonstrate the potential for innovative solutions. His commitment to a cleaner future serves as a powerful example for others in the industry.

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