Durability, Energy, Mobility

Benelux delegation visits Groningen: testing ground for digital innovation and energy transition

22 Aug. 2025

This week, Groningen (NL) showcased itself as a frontrunner in digital innovation and energy transition within the Benelux region. On August 21 and 22, a delegation from the Benelux Union, led by Secretary-General Frans Weekers, paid a working visit to the province. The visit was at the invitation of King’s Commissioner René Paas and attended by Provincial Executive for Economic Affairs Erik Jan Bennema. The program focused on groundbreaking projects in sustainability, digitalization, and regional cooperation.

“Groningen is a testing ground for digital innovation and energy transition in the Benelux,” said Weekers. “The knowledge and experience gained here are of great value to the entire region.”

The visit began with a tour of the European Hyperloop Test Center, where a 200-meter-long test setup of this futuristic transport technology was presented. The delegation then visited the proposed site for the AI Factory, an initiative aligned with Europe’s ambition to create a network of artificial intelligence hubs. The emphasis was on employment and economic opportunities arising from these developments.

The delegation also met with Mayor Roelien Kamminga, a former member of the Benelux Parliament, who highlighted Groningen’s role in international cooperation. The second day focused on energy infrastructure. At Gasunie, discussions were held on coordinating hydrogen and CO₂ networks within and beyond the Benelux. Weekers emphasized the Benelux’s role in facilitating regional energy consultations, such as the Penta dialogue with Germany and France and the North Sea consultation on offshore wind energy.

During a joint bike ride with King’s Commissioner René Paas and provincial representatives, the impact of the energy transition on the landscape was made visible. In the afternoon, the delegation visited the New Energy Coalition, where the European Hydrogen Valley was the central topic.

The working visit concluded with a conversation with State Secretary Eddie van Marum about the digital strategy and the role of Benelux cooperation in the development of the AI Factory.

In addition to Weekers, representatives from various ministries, the province, and local entrepreneurs also participated in the visit. The delegation underscored the importance of Groningen as a breeding ground for innovative solutions relevant to the entire Benelux.