The Netherlands – In the dynamic landscape of the Netherlands’ energy transition, Mirthe Kuenen stands at the forefront, steering the country towards a sustainable future. As a senior policy advisor at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate (EZK), Mirthe is dedicated to the ambitious goal of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy, particularly hydrogen.
Mirthe’s expertise lies in making the Netherlands more sustainable, and her current focus is on the development of the Dutch hydrogen market. In her role as a project leader for a large European subsidy process, she plays a vital part in supporting various elements of the hydrogen chain. The collaborative effort aims to establish a robust European hydrogen chain, uniting nations in a shared commitment to sustainable energy.
Mirthe’s journey began as a consultant in economic issues, where she first encountered the realms of energy transition and hydrogen. The allure of addressing critical social, economic, and energy-related challenges led her to make the transition from the private sector to the public sector.
Learning and adapting
While Mirthe refrains from making concrete plans for the distant future, she hopes to “make great steps within the government over the next 5 years and learn a lot.” The prospect of returning to the private sector remains open, although she acknowledges the enduring commitment of many to public service.