Game-Changing H₂ Power: A Presentation by HDF Energy at the "Hydrogen Horizons" Workshop, March 31, 2026, USTH, Hanoi

April 3, 2026 by Annie Nguyễn

HANOI – On the morning of March 31, 2026, at the international workshop "Hydrogen Horizons - Advancing Vietnam-France Energy Collaboration" held at the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), Dr. Khanh Viet Dung Tran, PhD, Eng, Country Head of HDF Energy – a global pure player in hydrogen infrastructure and high-power fuel cells – delivered a compelling presentation titled "Game-Changing H₂ Power".

The presentation outlined HDF Energy's strategic alignment with Vietnam's national hydrogen strategy, showcased the company's global expertise, and revealed a substantial pipeline of prospective projects across islands, refineries, and the transportation sector in Vietnam.

Vietnam's Hydrogen Strategy – A Perfect Match

The HDF representative opened by emphasizing that hydrogen is no longer a future option – it is now an integral part of Vietnam's national energy strategy. The official issuance of the National Hydrogen Strategy under Decision 165/QD-TTg (February 7, 2024) has positioned hydrogen as a key pillar in Vietnam's agenda on energy security, energy transition, and decarbonization.

"This is no longer only a technology discussion. It is the moment where national policy, market demand, and project execution capability come together," the HDF representative stated.

With international experience in hydrogen infrastructure and multi-megawatt fuel cells, HDF Energy is well positioned to support Vietnam during this critical market-building phase. The company's business model aligns perfectly with Vietnam's policy focus on producing reliable, non-intermittent renewable energy solutions that can stabilize the grid, support energy independence, and contribute to decarbonization.

Who is HDF Energy?

HDF Energy is a global pure player in hydrogen, active across three core businesses:

• Development, operation & ownership of large-scale hydrogen infrastructure.

• Design and production of high-power fuel cells.

• Project development leveraging a strong track record in financing and execution.

The company is listed on Euronext Paris (second-largest IPO by a Cleantech company in 2021, raising over €150 million). With 5 billion euros in projects under development, more than 150 global and local talents, and a target annual production capacity of 1 GW of multi-MW fuel cells by 2030, HDF Energy has established itself as a global leader with a strong local presence across five continents.

Renewstable® – A Flagship Solution for Non-Interruptible Renewable Energy

A key highlight of the presentation was Renewstable® , HDF's flagship solution for delivering baseload electricity day and night, along with essential grid services.

The solution combines:

1. Solar park – carbon-free power production when the sun is shining.

2. Batteries – short-term energy storage.

3. Electrolyser – producing hydrogen from water.

4. Hydrogen storage – long-term, mass energy storage.

5. Fuel cells (manufactured by HDF) – converting hydrogen back into electricity.

Key benefits of Renewstable® include:

• Guaranteed baseload power profile.

• Grid stability services – avoiding costly grid expansion.

• Energy independence – locally produced and consumed electricity, reducing fossil fuel imports.

• Cost stability – competitive fixed pricing for 20+ years.

• Boosting the local hydrogen economy – creating jobs and developing hydrogen skills.

World's First Multi-MW PEM Fuel Cell Factory

HDF Energy's industrial capabilities are centered in Bordeaux, France, where the company operates the world's first production plant for multi-MW PEM fuel cells. The factory became operational in 2024, with Phase 1 covering 7,000 m². By 2030, the factory aims to employ over 500 people and reach an annual production capacity of 1 GW.

Additionally, HDF has established Europe's first on-site technical testing center for high-power fuel cells, which reproduces real-life operating conditions to validate robustness, safety, and performance for heavy rail, maritime, and electric grid applications. The center operates autonomously via a remote-control system and includes a modular R&D test bench.

HDF's Prospective Projects in Vietnam

The most anticipated part of the presentation was the detailed pipeline of prospective projects in Vietnam, representing approximately $500 million of total investment.

Island Projects (Renewstable®)

Targeting island regions that remain isolated from or on the edge of the national power grid and heavily dependent on diesel generators:

• Phu Quy Island (Binh Thuan) – 10 MW / 3.0 MW

• Ly Son Island (Quang Ngai) – 30 MW / 6.0 MW

• Nam Du Island (Kien Giang) – 5 MW / 1.5 MW

• An Son Island (Kien Giang) – 5 MW / 1.5 MW

• Tho Chu Island (Kien Giang)

• Can Gio Island (Ho Chi Minh City)

Petrochemical & Refinery Projects (Hypower)

Targeting petrochemical plants and refineries with potential excess hydrogen for on-site power generation:

• Binh Son Refinery (Quang Ngai)

• Nghi Son Refinery (Thanh Hoa)

• Long Son Petrochemical (Ba Ria – Vung Tau)

• Stavian Quang Yen Petrochemical (Quang Ninh)

Railway & Maritime Projects

• Railway: Retrofitting old diesel locomotive fleets (not suitable for electrification) into hydrogen-powered locomotives. Potential lines include the old Hanoi–Haiphong route and the Hue–Da Nang route.

• Maritime: Focus on retrofitting ferries and providing alternative fuels for waterways, as well as green port transformation.

Key partners for these initiatives include Vietnam Railways, Ministry of Construction, Vietnam Maritime Administration (VIMAW), Vietnam Maritime Corporation (VIMC), Sai Gon Port, and Saigon River Ferries.

Strategic Opportunities for Collaboration

The HDF representative concluded by outlining four strategic opportunities for collaboration between HDF and Vietnam's government, SOEs, and utilities:

1. Energy Security – Reduce dependence on imported diesel, increase local energy autonomy.

2. Grid Reliability – Improve electricity stability in remote and island areas, support system balancing.

3. Decarbonization – Contribute to Vietnam's green transition and emission reduction goals.

4. Industrial Development – Help build a domestic hydrogen value chain, including skills, engineering capability, operations, and local supply chain participation.

Conclusion: A Game-Changing Partnership

*"Decision 165 provides a solid foundation for developing Vietnam's hydrogen energy sector, aligning HDF's capabilities with Vietnam's goals. Vietnam's focus on green hydrogen, especially in off-grid areas and heavy industry, directly complements HDF's Renewstable® and fuel cell solutions,"* the HDF representative affirmed.

With a strong track record, cutting-edge technology, and a substantial project pipeline, HDF Energy stands ready to be Vietnam's partner of choice in the journey toward a sustainable, hydrogen-powered future.

Reported by: VAHC Secretariat
Email: contact@vahc.com.vn