Russia to Test Hydrogen-Powered Vessel in October
MOSCOW—Local media reported on Monday that Russia’s first hydrogen-powered vessel, Ecobalt, is scheduled to undergo sea trials this month.
Oleg Savchenko, general director of the Krylov State Research Center (KSRC), said the vessel, designed as a 12-passenger recreational boat, is equipped with an electrochemical generator powered by hydrogen fuel.
“This will be Russia’s first vessel with a domestically-produced electrochemical hydrogen generator, representing a fully-import-substituted technology,” RIA Novosti quoted Savchenko as saying.
The KSRC, a leading developer of ship designs, materials, and technologies for the Russian Navy, is spearheading the project.
The vessel was constructed at the Gorky Zelenodolsk Shipyard by Ak Bars, based on the design by the KSRC’s Baltsudoproekt Central Design Bureau.
Renat Mistakhov, general director of Ak Bars, has said that the vessel is a prototype for refining hydrogen-based technology and developing a universal power module using fuel cells.
Ref: https://fuelcellsworks.com/2024/10/07/h2/russia-to-test-hydrogen-powered-vessel-in-october
DH2 Energy Develops 1.5 GW of Green Hydrogen Projects in Spain’s Extremadura Region
On the right, DH2 Energy’s Managing Director, Marcos López-Brea Baquero, during the Green Hydrogen round table held at the fair Expoenergea in November in Badajoz, Spain.
DH2 Energy unveiled its renewable hydrogen production plants under development in Extremadura, Spain. Madrid– Renewable hydrogen developer and independent producer DH2 Energy chose Expoenergea – a trade fair held in Badajoz in November, and which DH2 Energy sponsored – to unveil the four large-scale green hydrogen facilities it is developing in Spain’s Extremadura region The DH2 Energy initiatives under way in Extremadura represent total investment of €2.25 billionThese sites, all located in the province of Badajoz, have a combined electrolysis capacity of around 1.5 GW. Overall, these plants are capable of generating more than 75,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen per year.
According to the latest survey conducted by Spanish hydrogen industry association AeH2, DH2 Energy has the largest portfolio of renewable hydrogen production facilities under development in both Spain and Extremadura.
“Extremadura is one of the Spanish regions with greatest potential for renewable hydrogen production because it possesses all the necessary solar and hydro resources in abundance. What’s more, there’s a willingness to encourage deployment on the part of both the regional government and the local councils in the towns where DH2 Energy is building plants. Extremadura also has a favourable regulatory framework that includes specific legislation designed to promote renewable hydrogen. In addition, a section of the hydrogen transport network planned by Enagás will be built in Extremadura. This national infrastructure is set to give renewable hydrogen a major boost in coming years”, explained DH2 Energy’s Managing Director, Marcos López-Brea Baquero.
From left to the right: the General Secretary of Economy, Business and Commerce of the Government of Extremadura, Víctor Píriz Maya, the founder and CEO of Golendus, Gema Alejandra, the University Professor and professor at the University of Extremadura, Enrique Romero, and the General Director of DH2 Energy, Marcos López-Brea Baquero, at the Green Hydrogen panel held at the Expoenergea fair, in Badajoz.
DH2 Energy’s most advanced project in development in Extremadura is Raviza, located in the municipalities of Hornachos, Puebla del Prior and Ribera del Fresno. Raviza will produce 25,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen per year.
DH2 Energy has a further 3 projects under development in Extremadura: Badajoz 2, which will generate around 8,500 tonnes of renewable hydrogen per year, is located in Mérida; Badajoz 3, set to produce approximately 17,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen per year, spans the municipalities of Badajoz, Mérida and La Roca de la Sierra; and finally, the output from Badajoz 4, located solely in Badajoz, will amount to 25,000 tonnes per year.
Iberian Green Hydrogen Corridor
About DH2 Energy
DH2 Energy is dedicated to the development of large-scale renewable hydrogen production plants from water electrolysis and the production of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives. DH2 Energy is one of Spain’s biggest renewable hydrogen developers and has one of the country’s largest portfolios of plants under development.
DH2 Energy is the developer of one of the most advanced commercial renewable hydrogen facilities currently planned in Spain: the Hysencia 35 MW electrolysis plant, construction of which will begin in the first half of 2025. Hysencia is a pioneering initiative that won the first European auction held by the Innovation Fund financed by the European Hydrogen Bank.
Headquartered in Madrid, DH2 Energy operates on the Iberian Peninsula and in France, Mexico and Uruguay, among other markets.
Spain – The Junta promotes the development of hydrogen and signs a collaboration agreement with Clean Hydrogen in Brussels
Spain – The Junta promotes the development of hydrogen and signs a collaboration agreement with Clean Hydrogen in Brussels
The Director General of Energy and Mines, Alfonso Arroyo, has signed the memorandum of collaboration between the Regional Energy Agency of Castilla y León (EREN) and the Clean Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. The objective of this agreement is to promote collaboration in the development of hydrogen in the Community in fields such as knowledge transfer; the development of capacities and skills for the management and exploitation of this technology; and joint collaboration in project management and financing programs.
This agreement, signed on November 21 in Brussels, is an important step towards consolidating green hydrogen in Castilla y León and creating an energy vector that contributes to maintaining and improving the current state of well-being. Clean Hydrogen JU is the only public-private entity in Europe that promotes and supports renewable hydrogen innovation and research projects that are being implemented on the continent, with the aim of accelerating, developing and improving them.
The Community has the challenge of incorporating hydrogen as one of the key elements for the decarbonisation of the territory. The Ministry of Economy and Finance is aware of the legislative, regulatory, economic and investment difficulties, as well as the public and private acceptance that exist. Therefore, this memorandum signed in Brussels facilitates the path by participating and being actors in the development of renewable hydrogen and its applications.
Leader in renewable generation
Castilla y León is the leading Community in electricity generation from renewable sources, with electricity generation in 2023 from these sources of 24,662 GWh, which far exceeds regional demand, 12,998 GWh, so it has an excess of renewable resources that allows Spain to meet its global commitments in terms of renewable energy.
In recent years, more than 50 initiatives or projects have emerged in the Community that seek to take advantage of a large part of this renewable potential by developing green or renewable hydrogen generation projects, in order to use it as a raw material for the development of chemical products, such as methanol or ammonia, which are in high demand in the industrial sector; or as an energy use, as a substitute for current fossil fuels.
Currently, the proposed projects or initiatives have to face two challenges. On the one hand, the existing technical, economic, legislative and regulatory barriers that the promoters of this type of project have to deal with. And, on the other hand, the low demand expectations that the promoters currently face when it comes to ensuring the consumption of green hydrogen, either as a raw material or as an energy vector.
However, despite these challenges, the first green hydrogen production plant will be launched in the coming weeks, promoted by the Junta de Castilla y León through the Public Infrastructure and Environment Company (Somacyl) for industrial use in the Environmental Business Park (PEMA) located in Garray (Soria).
Winners of first EU-wide renewable hydrogen auction sign grant agreements, paving the way for new European production
Six renewable hydrogen projects have signed their respective grant agreements, advancing them towards implementation.
On 30 April 2024, seven European projects were selected for EU financial support in the Innovation Fund’s pilot hydrogen auction (IF23 Auction).
Today, six out of those seven projects have signed their respective grant agreements. The awarded funding will help successful bidders to bridge the difference between their production costs and the price that industrial users are willing to pay for this emerging product.
This auction is one of the pillars of the European Hydrogen Bank (EHB) launched by the Commission in 2023, and uses revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System to support producers of hydrogen categorised as Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO).
The selected projects are located in four European countries:
- Spain (Hysencia and Catalina);
- Portugal (Grey2green II and MP2X);
- Finland (eNRG Lahti);
- and Norway (Skiga).
The Innovation Fund will support these projects with a fixed premium payment per kilogram of certified and verified renewable hydrogen produced. This means that no payments will be made before projects start production. From the time of the grant agreement signature, the projects have up to five years to start producing renewable hydrogen.
The total amount of support comes to EUR 694 521 237 and will be disbursed over a timespan of ten years. The individual grants range from EUR 8 million to EUR 245 million for installations with a megawatt electric (MWe) capacity from 35 to 500 MWe.
Renewable hydrogen produced will serve many sectors, such as maritime, heavy duty transport, agriculture, or in the production of e-methane and e-methanol.
Altogether, the projects have the potential to produce up to 1.52 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen during the first ten years of their operations, avoiding more than 10 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
| eNRG Lahti | Nordic Ren-Gas Oy | Finland | 0.37 | 122 | 90 | 836 | EUR 45,228,375 |
| Grey2Green-II | Petrogal S.A. | Portugal | 0.39 | 216 | 200 | 1477 | EUR 84,227,910 |
| HYSENCIA | Angus | Spain | 0.48 | 17 | 35 | 115 | EUR 8,104,918 |
| SKIGA | Skiga | Norway | 0.48 | 169 | 117 | 1159 | EUR 81,317,443 |
| Catalina | Renato Ptx Holdco | Spain | 0.48 | 480 | 500 | 3284 | EUR 230,463,819 |
| MP2X | Madoquapower 2x | Portugal | 0.48 | 511 | 500 | 3494 | EUR 245,178,772 |
| Σ 1515 ktH2 | Σ 1442 MWe | Σ 10 365 ktCO2 | Σ EUR 694,521,237 | ||||
One project out of the seven that were selected to receive support from the Innovation Fund pilot auction decided to withdraw from the grant agreement process.
Drawing from the experience of this pilot auction, the Commission plans to launch the second renewable hydrogen auction via the Innovation Fund by the end of 2024, with an increased budget of EUR 1.2 billion. Published on 27 September 2024, the Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) for the second auction set out the main elements and requirements to apply.
Background
The Innovation Fund is the EU’s largest funding programme for the deployment of innovative net-zero technologies, with an estimated budget of EUR 40 billion from the revenues of auctioning allowances under the EU Emissions Trading System between 2020 and 2030.
The European Hydrogen Bank is an initiative to facilitate the EU’s domestic production and imports of renewable hydrogen. It aims to unlock private investment in the EU and in third countries by addressing investment challenges, closing the funding gap, and connecting future renewable hydrogen supply to consumers. Its domestic pillar is implemented through the Innovation Fund.
The first renewable hydrogen auction received 132 bids from 17 European countries requesting over 15 times the available EUR 800 million budget. The 119 proposals admissible and eligible were evaluated and ranked according to their bid price by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA).
Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO of Hydrogen Europe: “Spain Is a Perfect Country for Renewable Energies” – El Pais
The former MEP and green hydrogen expert talks about its potential and the necessary and “inevitable” changes to advance its development
Jorgo Chatzimarkakis (58 years old, Duisburg, Germany) believes that the same thing will happen with green hydrogen as with solar panels.
Twenty years ago, photovoltaic panels were extremely expensive and everyone said that we would never reach a suitable market price.
“The same will happen with green hydrogen, because it is abundant, it is everywhere and it is easy to obtain once you change the system.”
The CEO of Hydrogen Europe, an organisation representing companies in the hydrogen sector in Europe, believes that changes to the system require costs. In the case of green hydrogen , he talks about investment.
Spain is one of the countries that could do without importing natural gas, coal, oil and replace all these imports with production using existing renewable energies. But the financing barrier must be overcome; money must be invested in this.
According to the former European parliamentarian, it is vital to invest in infrastructure [gas pipelines, ports, storage] in order to move forward.
Natalia Latorre, general manager of energy transition at Enagás (sponsor of this interview), points out that renewable hydrogen is a
She adds that it will contribute to,
Vector that will play a transformative role as a solution to decarbonise sectors that cannot be electrified.
“improving the competitiveness of the industry”.
Billions Poured into Green Energy! Massive Hydrogen Plants to Ignite Extremadura
Spain is set to become a leader in renewable energy as DH2 Energy embarks on a monumental investment of €2.25 billion to boost green hydrogen production in Extremadura. The ambitious initiative aims to develop a staggering 1.5 gigawatts of hydrogen capacity in the region.
The heart of this venture is the Raviza plant, strategically situated across Hornachos, Puebla del Prior, and Ribera del Fresno. This facility alone is poised to produce an impressive 25,000 tons of renewable hydrogen annually. Meanwhile, DH2 Energy is advancing three additional projects across Extremadura. The Badajoz 2 project in Mérida is expected to yield around 8,500 tons per year. Badajoz 3, spanning Badajoz, Mérida, and La Roca de la Sierra, will contribute approximately 17,000 tons annually. Lastly, Badajoz 4 in Badajoz is set to match Raviza’s capacity with 25,000 tons yearly.
Furthermore, DH2 Energy is behind the exemplary Hysencia plant, a cutting-edge project in Spain with a 35 MW electrolysis capacity. Groundbreaking for this initiative is anticipated in early 2025, marking a significant achievement as it was the winning project in Europe’s first auction, supported by the Innovation Fund through the European Hydrogen Bank.
From its headquarters in Madrid, DH2 Energy continues its global reach, spanning markets in France, Mexico, and Uruguay, further solidifying its leadership in the renewable hydrogen sector.
Spain’s Green Hydrogen Boom: DH2 Energy’s €2.25 Billion Bet on a Sustainable Future
Introduction
Spain is rapidly advancing its position as a leader in the renewable energy sector. With DH2 Energy’s substantial €2.25 billion investment in Extremadura, the country is on track to significantly enhance its green hydrogen production capabilities. This initiative not only promises to elevate Spain’s energy profile but also potentially transform the global renewable energy landscape.
Features and Innovations
DH2 Energy’s ambitious project involves developing 1.5 gigawatts of hydrogen capacity, primarily centered around the Raviza plant. This advanced facility, strategically located across Hornachos, Puebla del Prior, and Ribera del Fresno, is set to produce 25,000 tons of renewable hydrogen annually. The project’s scale and innovation are noteworthy, aiming to position Spain at the forefront of clean energy solutions.
Along with Raviza, DH2 Energy is executing additional projects in Extremadura—Badajoz 2, Badajoz 3, and Badajoz 4. These initiatives are projected to collectively produce an impressive 50,500 tons of hydrogen each year, reinforcing the region’s role as a critical green energy hub.
Moreover, the Hysencia plant represents a pinnacle of innovation in Spain, leveraging advanced 35 MW electrolysis technology. This project is backed by the European Hydrogen Bank’s Innovation Fund, underscoring its significance as a trailblazer in Europe’s green hydrogen domain.
Strategic Trends and Insights
The project aligns with global trends emphasizing sustainable and renewable energy sources, targeting a reduction in carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. The shift towards green hydrogen not only enhances energy security but also supports European Union goals for climate neutrality. As Spain accelerates its renewable capacity, it is setting a precedent for industrial-scale green hydrogen production worldwide.
Market Analysis and Future Predictions
DH2 Energy’s initiatives are pivotal in establishing Extremadura as one of the primary green hydrogen production centers in Europe. This focus on scaling up hydrogen production signals a rising market trend, with expectations that green hydrogen will become more commercially viable and competitive.
As nations work to meet climate targets, the demand for renewable hydrogen is anticipated to grow exponentially. Spain’s commitment, spearheaded by projects like DH2 Energy’s, positions the country to capture a significant share of this burgeoning market. With the development of hydrogen infrastructure, Spain could become a key exporter within Europe’s green energy economy.
Use Cases and Applications
Green hydrogen produced by DH2 Energy is slated for diverse applications, including powering industrial sectors, transportation, and energy storage systems. The environmental benefits of substituting traditional fossil fuels with hydrogen in these areas are significant, fostering sustainability and reducing carbon footprints.
Security and Sustainability Aspects
Projects like those underway in Extremadura improve energy diversification, thus enhancing national energy security. By investing in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, DH2 Energy supports both ecological preservation and long-term economic growth.
Conclusion
DH2 Energy’s investment represents a giant leap toward a sustainable future, reinforcing Spain’s commitment to renewable energy. Through influential projects and strategic international collaborations, Spain is not only energizing its economy but also contributing broadly to the global renewable energy transformation landscape.
Ref: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TdBeN1FLyhLLzJpBtUIUnxPAhmIuA__ArXnkkxAHvdU/edit?tab=t.0
Go Energy Group plans to install 170 MW of green hydrogen and ammonia in Spain
The company said in a statement that it was “firm in its commitment to the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley and will continue to invest to create value and employment in the municipalities of San Juan del Puerto and Gibraleón.”
A few weeks ago, the International Energy Agency (IEA) published its Global Hydrogen Review 2024, which shows how the clean hydrogen sector is adding more projects and more final investment decisions, “but setbacks persist”: of the 20 GW of electrolysers announced worldwide, only 6.5 GW have confirmed their final investment decision (FID). In Spain, two oil companies have threatened to halt electrolyser projects in the event that a 1.2% tax is applied to large energy companies.
Joaquin Verdeguer Asensi, CEO in Spain of the United Arab Emirates company Go Energy Group, has shared with pv magazine that the company’s plans to develop two projects in the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley are still on track: specifically, a 100 MW green hydrogen and ammonia plant in San Juan del Puerto, and another 70 MW plant in Gibraleón. The investment for the two projects will exceed €300 million.
The company stresses that, despite “the recent appearance of news about some energy companies that have decided to stop their investments or renewable energy projects in Spain” last week, “the two applications for Integrated Environmental Authorization from Go Energy have been registered to continue with all the administrative procedures required to start the construction of the aforementioned industrial plants, which require a multi-million euro investment.”
The company adds that “all the documentation submitted to obtain the Integrated Environmental Authorisations has been prepared by a multidisciplinary team of more than 50 people belonging to different leading companies such as engineering group TSK, the Garrigues law firm, and local companies in the province of Huelva for environmental aspects and other types of specialised studies on soil, noise pollution, emissions into the atmosphere, etc.” In this sense, they explain that they intend to promote specialised employment in the municipalities of Gibraleon and San Juan del Puerto “and that is why they are designing a very comprehensive training plan with local corporations, allocating resources for this purpose.”
“During the month of October, the president of Go Energy Group has visited countries such as Japan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where he has found great interest from large corporations to establish collaborations in the company’s investments in Spain,” he explains.
The company is also developing two renewable hydrogen projects in the Balearic Islands using alkaline technology, as well as a green hydrogen plant in the Valencian Community town of Almussafes.
European Companies Launch the Alliance to Accelerate Decarbonisation Through the H2med
- This Alliance will bring together countries such as Portugal, Spain, France and Germany, reinforcing the deployment of a European hydrogen single market, as well as connecting hydrogen production, storage and consumption projects.
- Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), DH2 Energy España, Elyse Energy, Hydrogène de France, HYNAMICS, Moeve, Qair, Securing Energy for Europe (SEFE), SHS – Stahl-Holding-Saar GmbH & Co KGaA, thyssenkrupp nucera and thyssenkrupp Steel Europe – energy and technological companies- and REN, Enagás, GRTgaz, OGE and Teréga – the H2med promoters -, establish a framework for cooperation in this European, cross-cutting and multisectorial initiative. It is an open Alliance that aims to include more companies and regions, calling for support from governments too.
- The main goal of this Alliance is to accelerate decarbonisation of industrial territories through the implementation of the H2med Southwestern Hydrogen Corridor by the early 2030´s, driving a strong European hydrogen value chain. This initiative is aligned with the European Green Deal and Fit for 55 goals, as well as with the new objectives set by the European Commission in the upcoming Clean Industrial Deal.
- This partnership contributes to developing and strengthening a competitive, resilient, and sustainable European industry, thus helping to achieve national and European decarbonisation goals and the long-term security of supply and resilience of the energy system.
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), DH2 Energy España, Elyse Energy, Hydrogène de France, HYNAMICS, Moeve, Qair, Securing Energy for Europe (SEFE), SHS – Stahl-Holding-Saar GmbH & Co KGaA, thyssenkrupp nucera, thyssenkrupp Steel Europe (energy and technological companies) and Enagás, GRTgaz, OGE, REN et Teréga – H2med promoters -, create the Alliance for the H2med Southwestern Hydrogen Corridor. This Alliance will bring together countries such as France, Germany, Portugal and Spain reinforcing the deployment of a European hydrogen single market as well as connecting hydrogen production, storage and consumption projects.
The Alliance have been announced during the event at the German Embassy in Madrid: “Scaling Up Green Hydrogen for Domestic Use and Export” with the presence of Stefan Wenzel, Parliamentary State Secretary to the German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Joan Groizard Payeras, Secretary of State for Energy at the Spanish Ministry of Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge, João Mira-Gomes, Portuguese Ambassador to Spain and Maria Margarete Gosse, German Ambassador to Spain.
This cross-cutting, multiregional and multisectoral collaboration will be essential to provide a sound basis for driving hydrogen supply and demand, creating best conditions to develop strategic projects. The Alliance will facilitate collaboration and communication between members across all hydrogen value chain segments (production, technology, consumption, transport…) – this multilateral coordination is recognized as a key element to generate a real and long-term tractor effect to drive the sector forward.
This Alliance will contribute to impulse domestic hydrogen markets and decarbonisation in their respective countries, by creating incentives to scale up capacities for production and offtake as well as integrating supply and demand for energy in Europe.
Considering the strategic role of hydrogen for decarbonisation of hard-to-abate sectors (industry and maritime, aviation and heavy transport), it is essential to develop a trans-European hydrogen ecosystem and establish a hydrogen single market. This will ensure the competitiveness of European industry as well as the long-term security of supply and resilience of the European energy system. The Alicante Declaration signed by the European leaders during the Euromed Summit in 2022 underscored the European commitment to seek collective solutions to the energy problem, focusing on hydrogen and its transportation as key elements for the continent’s energy independence.
Through this Alliance, participants will establish a framework for cooperation contributing to the development of the Southwestern Hydrogen Corridor, consisting mainly of the pipeline projects H2med, HY-FEN (GRTgaz South-North hydrogen link) and HySoW, the Portuguese and Spanish Backbones, in connection with OGE´s pipelines as part of the German hydrogen core network, which have all been recognized (or are candidating) as Projects of Common Interest (PCI) by the European Union.
Moreover, the members of the Alliance will work together to reinforce the deployment of hydrogen network projects as well as connect hydrogen production, storage and consumption projects, thereby contributing to growth of the hydrogen economy in Europe. To that end, members will meet periodically to ensure coordination, identification and reporting of synergies and opportunities. It is an open Alliance that aims to include additional companies and regions in the near future, calling for support from governments
EHB winner launches its own green hydrogen offtake auction for 35MW project
DH2 Energy is launching an auction to secure offtake hydrogen from its European Hydrogen Bank- (EHB)-supported 35MW green hydrogen plant in Spain with the region’s gas futures market operator MIBGAS Derivatives. Set to open on Friday (November 15), the auction is open to all companies interested in buying the 1,700 tonnes of green hydrogen produced by the plant per year, for any use case, both nationally and internationally.Planned to be undertaken in three phases by MIBGAS, after pre-qualification, bidders will undergo qualification and competitive stages, where the companies that present the best offers will be selected. Winners from the competitive round will enter negotiations with DH2 Energy in the hopes of leading to formal offtake contracts.The DH2 project, named Hysencia, will use 35MW of electrolyser capacity, with 39MW of solar power and a 10MW grid connection to produce hydrogen. The plans were approved earlier this year, with operations expected to start in 2027.Having bid under the pen name Angus, DH2 secured funding for the project from the pilot EHB auction, with the developer set to receive €0.39/kg (€8.1m in total).Marcos Lópex-Brea Baquero, DH2 Managing Director, said, “This auction marks a milestone for the development of renewable hydrogen, and we are confident that it will help stimulate demand and advance the establishment of a stable market for renewable hydrogen.” Despite promises made by both policymakers and prospective green hydrogen producers for low costs in the near future, high prices for green hydrogen have continued to deter potential offtakers.Research by Rystad Energy estimated that despite the EHB subsidy and Spain’s low-cost renewable power, green hydrogen will still be priced at over $5/kg. The complex cost dynamics have seen producers have to innovate in the way they pursue offtake contracts, such as DH2’s auction.
EU boosts renewable hydrogen with €2 billion in funding as Spain, Lithuania and Austria lead the way
The European Commission, Spain, Lithuania and Austria are announcing new financial support for the development of renewable hydrogen via the Innovation Fund. The three Member States will participate in the ‘Auctions-as-a-Service’ scheme as part of the second European Hydrogen Bank auction, which will be launched on 3 December. In addition to the 1.2 billion euros in EU funding from the Innovation Fund, the three EU Member States will deploy over 700 million euros in national funds to support renewable hydrogen production projects located in their countries. The total funding mobilised by the ‘IF24′ renewable hydrogen auction will therefore be around 2 billion euros.
“Renewable hydrogen will be crucial for the decarbonisation of our economy, especially in hard-to-abate industry sectors,” said Maroš Šefčovič, Executive Vice-President for European Green Deal, Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight. “European companies need our support to keep up their competitive edge. I am pleased to see that Spain, Lithuania and Austria have decided to contribute to our European efforts to create a hydrogen market with new financial contributions. I can only invite others to follow this good example. In particular, Lithuania is dedicating around 36 million euros for the Auctions-as-a-Service scheme, from their Modernisation Fund budget. The country’s participation in the Auctions-as-a-Service scheme will help reach its national target of 1.3 gigawatts of electrolysis capacity and 129 kilotonnes of renewable hydrogen production annually by 2030 With these new financial commitments, Spain, Lithuania and Austria are demonstrating their commitment to meeting national and EU targets for the uptake of clean energy and supporting the decarbonisation of European industry.
Energy Major Repsol Halts Green Hydrogen Projects in Spain
Spanish energy giant Repsol has decided to pause green hydrogen development projects in its home country, citing an unfavorable regulatory regime with the idea of a permanent windfall tax on energy companies, a spokesperson for Repsol told Reuters on Monday The Spanish firm has a pipeline of 350 megawatts (MW) of electrolysis capacity for green hydrogen projects across Spain, but it has flagged uncertainties over the regulatory framework in the country as a deterrent to investments in green energy. Repsol now plans to build its next electrolyzer for green hydrogen in neighboring Portugal, the spokesperson told Reuters.
OPEC+ May Be Facing Long-Term Production Cuts
The Spanish energy giant is the latest European firm to pause or ditch green hydrogen plans, due to either policy or demand concerns. Most recently, Shell and Equinor have ditched plans for low-hydrogen production and transportation in north Europe, due to a lack of demand. The International Energy Agency (IEA), the most vocal backer of all things renewable, has also warned that policy and demand uncertainty are slowing down green hydrogen adoption.
The IEA said in its latest Global Hydrogen Review 2024 that uncertainty around demand and incentives coupled with cost pressures are weighing on the global adoption of low-carbon hydrogen despite an uptick in final investment decisions in the past year. World demand for hydrogen rose by 2.5% to 97 million tons in 2023, with demand concentrated in refining and chemicals, and mostly covered by hydrogen produced from unabated fossil fuels According to the IEA, the main reasons for the slow uptake of low-carbon hydrogen “include unclear demand signals, financing hurdles, delays to incentives, regulatory uncertainties, licensing and permitting issues and operational challenges.” “[F]or these projects to be a success, low-emissions hydrogen producers need buyers,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “Policymakers and developers must look carefully at the tools for supporting demand creation while also reducing costs and ensuring clear regulations are in place that will support further investment in the sector.”
Building a Carbon-Neutral Future: Ireland and Germany’s Green Hydrogen Path to Growth and Justice
Catherine Sheridan explores how this collaboration can drive social and economic progress, from advancing gender equity to boosting local economic development. The paper also examines the essential policy frameworks and innovative offtake agreements needed to unlock the full potential of this green hydrogen alliance.
of picture alliance / NurPhoto | Romy Arroyo Fernandez
Germany’s recently published green hydrogen import strategy highlights the need to secure reliable energy sources to meet its climate neutrality goals by 2045. While a pipeline to Denmark and Norway is on the fast track, discussions are also underway with Great Britain and Ireland for potential collaborations.
With its exceptional offshore wind resources, Ireland is well-positioned to become a key supplier of green hydrogen to Germany in the medium to long term. This evolving partnership between Ireland and Germany offers an opportunity to foster innovative offtake agreements and promote socio-economic benefits, including gender equity and local economic development. By building on this collaboration, both nations can enhance their bilateral relations while contributing to a sustainable and inclusive energy future.
Ireland in 2024: Laying the Groundwork for a Green Hydrogen Economy
In 2024, Ireland is in the initial stages of developing its green hydrogen sector, with a heavy reliance on fossil fuel imports—77% of its current energy system. The Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Act 2021 sets ambitious targets, including a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The National Hydrogen Strategy, published in July 2023, outlines plans to harness surplus renewable electricity, particularly from wind energy, to produce green hydrogen. A collaboration with Germany, formalized through the Joint Declaration of Intent in May 2023, focuses on joint research and development in hydrogen production, storage, and transport.
Building Momentum: Expanding Ireland’s Green Hydrogen Capacity for Domestic Markets by 2030
Ireland’s renewable energy strategy by 2030 targets a total capacity of 22 GW, including 5 GW from offshore wind, 9 GW from onshore wind, and 8 GW from solar power. This capacity will generate surplus renewable electricity, which will be directed toward green hydrogen production. Production facilities for green hydrogen are strategically planned near major wind farms across the country.
To support the integration of green hydrogen into the national energy system, Gas Networks Ireland is exploring the integration of up to 20% hydrogen into the national gas grid. Additionally, hydrogen storage solutions, including underground salt caverns in the southern and western regions, are being considered to ensure a stable hydrogen supply. Smaller-scale storage will be established near production sites and refueling stations to support the transition to hydrogen-powered transport and other sectors.
Towards Export: Ireland’s Green Hydrogen Strategy for 2030-2035
From 2030 to 2035, Ireland will shift its focus to scaling up green hydrogen production for export. The renewable energy capacity developed by 2030 (22 GW) will play a crucial role in this transition. Ireland plans to further expand its offshore wind capacity, with additional projects aimed at specifically boosting hydrogen production for export.
Key to this strategy is the repurposing of the Moffat interconnector, an existing natural gas pipeline linking Ireland with Scotland, which will be adapted for hydrogen transport. Once the hydrogen reaches Scotland, it will be transported through the UK’s repurposed pipeline system, connecting to the European Hydrogen Backbone via a key pipeline link in the North Sea. This connection will integrate Ireland into the European hydrogen market, allowing for significant exports to regions such as Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
By 2050, Ireland aims to further develop its offshore wind energy capacity to reach 37 GW, as part of its strategy to become a leading producer of green hydrogen in Europe. This target is part of a broader ambition to harness up to 80 GW of offshore wind potential. The large-scale deployment of green hydrogen production will ramp up from 2038 to 2050, supported by advanced electrolysis facilities and expanded hydrogen storage solutions.
A New Era for Bilateral Relations and Green Hydrogen Export
Ireland is poised to become a key supplier of green hydrogen to Germany, with export plans that are realistic for the medium to long term. This development is set to strengthen the bilateral relationship and open new avenues for cooperation. To fully realize this potential, Ireland needs a clear and transparent political framework, underpinned by innovative projects across various sectors and significant investments in offshore wind farms, pipeline networks, and other critical infrastructure.
Innovative offtake agreements could play a pivotal role in aligning Ireland’s green hydrogen capabilities with Germany’s industrial needs. These agreements would secure long-term contracts, providing the financial stability and market certainty necessary to attract large-scale investments. With such a framework in place, Ireland can effectively expand its hydrogen production infrastructure and establish itself as a reliable supplier to Germany.
Harnessing the Opportunity: Ireland’s Green Hydrogen Strategy as a Catalyst for Social Justice
Ireland’s green hydrogen sector offers a unique opportunity to drive both the energy transition and social justice. Beyond the technical and economic aspects, there’s significant potential to embed socio-economic principles that ensure a just and inclusive transition.
To address the skills gap in Ireland’s renewable energy sector, the workforce will need to triple to around 9,000 full-time equivalent employees by 2030. This expansion is an opportunity to enhance gender equity and socio-economic balance within the sector. Initiatives such as joint vocational training centers in Ireland and Germany, scholarships or incentives for underrepresented groups, and strategic investments in local economies are key steps toward achieving these goals.
The green hydrogen sector also presents an unprecedented chance to increase diversity in decision-making processes, particularly in regions most affected by the transition away from fossil fuels. Collaborative efforts between Ireland and Germany could lead to the creation of gender-focused impact investment funds and public awareness campaigns that promote STEM education among young women and socio-economically disadvantaged youths.
By focusing on these socio-economic factors, Ireland’s green hydrogen strategy could set an example for a just and inclusive energy transition, ensuring that the benefits of this emerging sector are widely shared and contribute to social cohesion in both countries.
UK commits to hydrogen-to-power subsidy mechanism
The UK government announced a new business model for hydrogen, based on dispatchable power agreements available to carbon capture technologies.
The UK government has said it will create a new subsidy scheme for hydrogen-to-power (H2P) plants. The support will be based on the dispatchable power agreement (DPA) support introduced for carbon capture. H2P plants will also gain access to the UK capacity market “as soon as practical,” the government announced.
More detail on support for H2P is expected in spring 2025, but initial plans point to a subsidy based on elements of the DPA introduced to support carbon capture usage and storage (CCUS) deployment. The government will provide a support payment to H2P plants in a bid to provide more revenue certainty for investors, with the expectation that investment and finance costs will come down as the market matures.
The DPA business model introduced in the United Kingdom for CCUS plants is based on contract for difference (CfD) terms. It offers an availability payment, which is paid to plants based on performance regardless of whether the site is dispatching, and a variable payment to make the plant more competitive with fossil fuel plants operating without CCUS equipment. Contract lengths can range between 10 and 15 years. Exact details for the H2P support will be confirmed following further consultation with industry stakeholders.
Industry association Hydrogen UK welcomed the government’s commitment to developing market intervention to support H2P deployment. In a statement published on LinkedIn, the association said: “H2P will be a key tool in achieving clean power and our net-zero targets. Hydrogen UK and our members look forward to working with government next year to develop a suitable and detailed H2P business model that supports the development of world-leading hydrogen-to-power projects. Capacity market access for H2P should also come as soon as practical, according to the UK government. Auctions for Great Britain’s capacity market are held by the National Electricity System Operator (NESO) with successful bidders securing contracts with the state-owned Low Carbon Contracts Company. Contracts in the capacity market can run for up to 15 years and provide greater revenue certainty for investors.The government has acknowledged that given higher “first-of-a-kind” costs, plus concerns about fuel availability, H2P projects may struggle to access capacity market support in the short term. It added, however, that allowing H2P to compete in the capacity market would provide greater long-term stability for the technology. The UK government views H2P, CCUS and long-duration energy storage (LDES) as key to reducing the country’s reliance on unabated gas-fired generation without accompanying storage technology. Its announcement of new H2P support follows the launch of a cap-and-floor scheme for LDES in October 2024A project led by the Biorenewables Development Centre at the University of York has become the first to successfully produce hydrogen at scale through a biological process, whilst also capturing the carbon dioxide released to reduce atmospheric pollution.
Ref: https://www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/2024/research/clean-hydrogen-production-carbon-capture/
The H2Boost project
The H2Boost project was achieved by transforming everyday waste into clean hydrogHydrogen is considered to be a cleaner and safer alternative to oil and gas for heating and some modes of transport, but the production of hydrogen can release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere resulting in environmental concern.In a landmark achievement for the UK’s green energy sector, researchers are now looking to expand the potential of the new technology to support the UK’s net zero ambitions. In order to produce ‘clean hydrogen’, experts have been investigating how to produce the quantities of gas needed whilst also capturing the carbon dioxide. The H2Boost project, in partnership with the University of Leeds and funded by the government’s £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP), was achieved by transforming everyday waste into clean hydrogen through a unique process called dark fermentation, which converts pre-treated organic waste into biohydrogen. The system then captures and reuses all by-products, whereby the waste material generates additional energy through anaerobic digestion; cultivated algae and bacteria capture carbon emissions. This approach means that virtually nothing goes to waste in the production of hydrogen. Penny Cunningham, Programme Operations Manager at the Biorenewables Development Centre, said: “Successfully demonstrating integrated hydrogen production with carbon capture represents a significant technical breakthrough for the H2Boost project.“Our novel approach to producing clean hydrogen from waste while removing CO2 is not only technically feasible but also holds significant promise for large-scale sustainable energy solutions in the future.”The H2Boost project, an initiative under the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Hydrogen BECCS Innovation Programm, aims to develop a commercially viable and sustainable process for producing biohydrogen from organic waste. Experts and industry leaders believe that new technologies have the potential to play a crucial role in decarbonising the UK’s transport sector, with low-carbon hydrogen technologies expected to provide up to 35% of the UK’s energy requirements by 2050.
Ref: https://www.pv-magazine.com/2024/12/10/uk-commits-to-hydrogen-to-power-subsidy-mechanism/
Equinor and Partners Approve Execution of UK’s First Carbon Capture and Storage Projects
Equinor, alongside project partners, has announced financial close after taking a Final Investment Decision (FID) to progress to execution phase on two of the UK’s first carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects in Teesside, the Northern Endurance Partnership (NEP) and Net Zero Teesside Power (NZT Power).
“It is a major milestone to have agreed Final Investment Decision and financial close on two of the UK’s first carbon capture, transport and storage infrastructure projects. This demonstrates how the industry, alongside the UK Government, have progressed a business model for new power supply and carbon capture, transport and storage services to decarbonise the most carbon intensive region in the UK”, says Irene Rummelhoff, executive vice president of Marketing, Midstream and Processing at Equinor.
“We look forward to continued collaboration with our partners and the UK Government as we prepare to progress the projects, with an estimated operational date from 2028 onwards.”NEP, in which Equinor is a key partner, is the CO2transportation and storage provider for the East Coast Cluster (ECC), one of the UK Government’s first selected CCS clusters.
The project expects to commence construction from mid-2025 with start-up in 2028. It includes a CO2 gathering network and onshore compression facilities as well as a 145km offshore pipeline and subsea injection and monitoring facilities for the Endurance saline aquifer located around 1000m below the seabed. It could transport and store up to 4 million tonnes of captured carbon dioxide emissions per year from three Teesside projects initially, rising to an average of up to 23 million tonnes by 2035 with future expansion of the East Coast Cluster.
“The UK is a key market for Equinor and we have a history of delivering significant energy provision along its East Coast, transitioning from traditional oil and gas demand to include renewables and low carbon options such as CCS and hydrogen. This is a major step for both Equinor and the UK, helping to decarbonise the country’s industrial heartlands and achieve its net zero ambitions whilst providing jobs and supply chain opportunities. We look forward to working with the Government to deliver further low carbon projects across the UK including in the Humber and in Scotland”, says Alex Grant, UK country manager at Equinor.
Equinor is also a partner in NZT Power, which is part of the East Coast Cluster. NZT Power will be a new first-of-a-kind gas-fired power plant with carboncapture, which supports the decarbonisation ambitions across the north-east of England’s industrial regions.
The plant will have the capacity to generate up to 742 megawatts of decarbonised, flexible power, complementing a growing share of intermittent renewable power. This capacity is equivalent to the average electricity demand of around 1 million UK homes. It will have a capacity to capture up to 2 million tonnes of CO2per year for transport and secure storage by the NEP project.
Equinor has a 45 per cent stake in NEP with the remaining 45 per cent owned by bp and 10 per cent by TotalEnergies, and a 25 per cent stake in the NZT Power project with the remaining 75 per cent owned by bp. bp provides operator services on both projects.
Building work for both projects will be completed by nine leading engineering, procurement, and construction contractors with a combined value of around £4billion. The work will bring thousands of jobs and wider socio-economic benefits to the north-east of England.
NEP has also been granted government approval to progress development engineering for the Humber Carbon Capture Pipeline (HCCP), the proposed onshore infrastructure project that would transport CO2 from future selected carbon capture projects in the Humber region.
These decarbonisation projects support Equinor’s wider corporate ambition, including a 50 per cent reduction in operated emissions and 50 per cent gross capex investment in low carbon and renewable technologies by 2030. In the low carbon solutions space, Equinor has an aim to have a 30-50 mtpa CO2 transport and storage capacity by 2035.
Equinor has been a leading energy provider to the UK for more than 40 years, delivering over 25 per cent of its natural gas requirements, enough to heat eight million homes, much of which is landed by pipeline on the East Yorkshire coast. It is also a partner in Dogger Bank in the southern North Sea, which once completed will be the world’s largest offshore windfarm.
UK govt commits to introducing hydrogen to power business model
The UK government has committed to introducing a market intervention to de-risk investment in hydrogen to power (H2P) in the form of an H2P business model (H2PBM).
Hydrogen molecule. Source: Mainspring Energy.
The H2PBM will be based on elements of the dispatchable power agreement (DPA), designed for power with carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS).
In its response to a consultation on the need for an H2P market intervention, published on Monday, the government also said that, in addition, it will look to enable H2P to participate in the current Capacity Market as soon as practical.
To advance the initiative, the government will publish an H2PBM market engagement document in the spring of 2025, detailing the proposed design of the H2PBM, and we will establish an H2P Expert Working Group.
The consultation received 44 responses from various stakeholders, most of which were supportive of the role of H2P in a clean power system and viewed a DPA-style mechanism as the most appropriate design option.
Hydrogen sector representatives welcomed the announcement. “H2P will be a key tool in achieving clean power and our net zero targets. Hydrogen UK and our members look forward to working with government next year to develop a suitable and detailed H2P business model that supports the development of world-leading hydrogen to power projects,” Hydrogen UK said in a Linkedin post.
“Hydrogen to Power offers a unique solution to some of the most pressing challenges in the energy transition. Its ability to deliver low-carbon, dispatchable power is not only a critical enabler for integrating renewables into a balanced, secure, and reliable energy system, but also provides a path for replacing unabated gas,” said Celia Greaves, CEO of The Hydrogen Energy Association.
New study highlights hydrogen opportunities for UK companies in Australia
A new report from global energy consultancy Xodus has emphasized the opportunity for hydrogen development in Australia and the chance for UK companies to export their products and services.
Australia is expected to be a significant force in global hydrogen by 2030, both for export and the decarbonization of domestic industries, and as per the study, this presents a major opportunity for international companies to export their expertise to this market, and UK businesses are in prime position to capitalize on this.
To note, the UK’s government commissioned Xodus to undertake the overview of existing domestic capabilities in Australia that support the low-carbon hydrogen sector to improve understanding of the synergies between the two countries.
As part of the supply chain readiness assessment, Xodus explored potential gaps where UK supply chain companies could provide support and any barriers which could slow the roll out or impede participation from overseas.
The study stated that if Australia is to fully realize its hydrogen potential, collaboration between the UK government, its supply chain and Australian counterparts is essential to provide the capacity and skills needed to realize its hydrogen export ambitions, as well as serving its domestic needs.
Simon Allison, Vice President APAC at Xodus, commented: “Delivering a global energy transition that is both effective and prosperous, requires collaboration at all levels of the industry, from supply chain to government. Our Australian Hydrogen Market study reinforces the wider benefits that can be realised through joined up thinking and by sharing expertise across borders.”
“Australia is emerging as a key force in the global hydrogen market, holding the world’s second-largest production capacity in active development. With numerous potential projects and growth opportunities, the country is set for significant expansion beyond 2030, with an expected annual market revenue of $24 billion (£13 billion). Clearly hydrogen is a massive growth opportunity for Australia, but it will not be able to fully grasp this potential without input from overseas and there is a real opening for UK companies to leverage their strength and capture a share of this market.”
It is important to mention that according to Xodus, it is not a given that UK companies will be able to capture the work. The consultancy highlighted four major barriers to entry. Among the most significant is the regulatory and policy uncertainty. Other barriers include revenue certainty, the absence of a carbon policy that establishes a higher tax on emissions and the domestic fiscal regime.
Mark Elliot, Commercial Lead for Hydrogen at Xodus, said: “Challenges are part and parcel of the energy industry, but companies should bear in mind what can be gained by overcoming them. Australia presents substantial opportunities for UK companies prepared to invest time in understanding the regulatory landscape and strategically positioning themselves to enter the market.”
Four main prospects in Australia for UK companies were identified in the study: hydrogen electrolysis manufacturing, hydrogen-fueled gas turbines, hydrogen fuel cells and transportation.
The potential for exporting hydrogen from the UK to continental Europe
This report, commissioned by the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) explores the strategic, technical, and economic factors of different transportation methods for hydrogen export from the UK to continental Europe.
The UK is a leader in the development of low-carbon hydrogen production infrastructure. Stimulating low-carbon hydrogen production has the potential to support decarbonisation, enhance the UK’s energy security and support economic growth.
Projected demand for low-carbon hydrogen in the UK under the net zero 2050 emissions scenarios is significant. A strong pipeline of low carbon hydrogen projects has been identified to meet this demand, which has encouraged policy makers and industry to consider the potential of connecting future UK hydrogen infrastructure with continental Europe.
The study aimed to build the evidence base on hydrogen export to continental Europe to inform decision making and was split into three main areas:
- Setting out the UK opportunity with regards to hydrogen export.
- A pre-feasibility assessment of potential export routes for hydrogen from the UK, considering pipeline and non-pipeline transportation methods.
- A UK-specific levelised cost of transport (LCOT) model.
EnergyPathways joining UK’s hydrogen storage planning group
Britain’s Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has asked EnergyPathways to participate in the Hydrogen Storage Business Model (HSBM) Design Group of companies.
Marram Energy Storage Hub (MESH) is a new energy storage facility. The MESH facility has been designed as a fully decarbonized and electrified zero emission facility to be powered by the renewable wind farms of the UK Irish Sea region to avoid any GHG emissions from venting and flaring, according to EnergyPathways. Britain’s Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has asked EnergyPathways to participate in the Hydrogen Storage Business Model (HSBM) Design Group of companies. When the HSBM has been finalized following consultations, it will define DESNZ’s investment support scheme for emerging UK hydrogen storage projects. Assuming the department’s first Hydrogen Storage Allocation Round goes ahead next year, EnergyPathways intends to submit an application for its MESH natural gas and green hydrogen storage project. The proposed MESH storage facility, offshore the Lancashire coast of northwest England, will be equivalent in size to the Centrica’s Rough gas storage site in the southern UK North Sea, capable of initially storing 50 Bcf of gas. However, EnergyPathways has identified upside for a threefold expansion of the storage, including developing green hydrogen storage of ~1.5 TWh. MESH is located close to 7-8 GW of planned and existing wind power developments, and according to the company, will be able to exploit curtailed wind energy at scale behind network constraints, with green hydrogen production and storage. It could also connect green hydrogen supply to the emerging hydrogen markets under development nearby at the HyNet NorthWest blue hydrogen hub and carbon capture and storage (CCS) project. Finally, MESH could be used to integrate and repurpose existing gas infrastructure locally to transport green hydrogen production to energy markets and provide hydrogen blended gas to decarbonize gas power generation. EnergyPathways is working with various engineering contractors on MESH, with plans to deliver the pre-FEED by the end of 2024 and FID at the end of next year.
King of the Netherlands inaugurates electrolyser for green hydrogen funded by LIFE
The LIFE project NEW HYTS aims to revolutionise heavy transport through the deployment of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
©LIFE20 CCM/NL/001664 – All rights reserved. Licensed to the European Union under conditions
His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands officially inaugurated a new electrolyser for green hydrogen production near Utrecht on 4 October. Developed by Hysolar, the facility is located at the KWR Water Research Institute in Nieuwegein and was brought to life through the LIFE NEW HYTS project, funded by the LIFE Programme. This cutting-edge facility represents a major step forward in advancing green hydrogen production and its role in the energy transition.
Green hydrogen is vital in the move towards a CO2-neutral future, providing sustainable solutions for transport, machinery, and various industrial sectors. The new electrolyser in Nieuwegein will produce 300 000 kg of green hydrogen annually—enough to power around sixty buses or trucks. This makes Nieuwegein one of the pioneering green hydrogen production sites in the Netherlands, further strengthening the country’s position in sustainable energy innovation.
LIFE NEW HYTS
The LIFE NEW HYTS project is focused on advancing the use of green hydrogen in the heavy transport and civil works sectors, particularly for trucks and other large vehicles. Hydrogen presents an efficient solution for sectors where battery-powered options are not feasible, as it can be quickly refilled, offering a promising alternative to diesel. By utilizing green hydrogen, the project aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, with an expected annual saving of two million litres of diesel in the Utrecht region alone. This is part of a broader initiative to help the Netherlands meet its Climate Agreement goals.
LIFE NEW HYTS is laying the groundwork for a local hydrogen infrastructure and promoting cross-sector collaboration to make hydrogen-powered heavy transport a reality. The project not only drives the rollout of hydrogen vehicles but also supports the training of automotive professionals in hydrogen technologies. By partnering with regions in Belgium and Germany, LIFE NEW HYTS aims to prove the viability of green hydrogen, helping to pave the way for cleaner air and a more sustainable future.
This innovative project brings together local entrepreneurs, research institutions, and governments to showcase the potential of green hydrogen for road transport. It highlights the feasibility of local production, distribution, and application of hydrogen, creating the conditions for the rapid adoption of heavy commercial vehicles powered by this renewable energy source. Funded by the LIFE Programme, the newly opened electrolyser reinforces the commitment of all stakeholders to make green hydrogen widely accessible across the Netherlands.
Festive Opening
A private event for invited guests took place on Friday 4 October. During the plenary session, several speakers, including Mr Alexandre Paquot, Director at DG Climate Action, shared their perspectives in the presence of the King. The highlight of the afternoon was the official opening of the electrolyser by the King, followed by a networking reception. During this reception, the King engaged with guests on topics such as the application of green hydrogen, education, and innovation.
Denmark and the Netherlands press ahead with green hydrogen cluster plans
November 13, 2024, by Ajsa Habibic
Danish green hydrogen producers and Dutch industrial market players have reiterated their commitment to developing a green hydrogen cluster in Northwestern Europe and welcomed a new partner to this initiative.
Courtesy of SAS
The Danish-Dutch partnership aims to establish Northwest Europe’s leading green hydrogen cluster, bridging Danish production with Dutch demand. By enhancing green hydrogen infrastructure, the collaboration seeks to boost demand, advocate for government support, and secure funding to make green hydrogen a competitive energy source across the region.
During the forum on hydrogen cooperation on November 12, in the presence of HM King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and HM King Frederik of Denmark, the signatories of the Dutch-Danish Offtake Declaration on green hydrogen and its derivatives issued a joint statement on the industry cooperation between Danish producers and suppliers of green hydrogen, and the Dutch industrial offtake market.
“Together, Denmark and the Netherland can build the full value-chain from production to offtake of green hydrogen and its derivatives. Both countries play a vital role in the development of offshore wind in the North Sea and the coherent infrastructure of power and hydrogen grids. We believe that our combined capabilities in developing and integrating green energy can be replicated on a large scale with renewable energy and electrolysis technology. Further, both countries can create green import corridors by ship and pipelines to Central Europe,” the partners emphasized in the joint statement.
The statement calls for:
- support of the development of a coherent Danish-German-Dutch land-based hydrogen infrastructure to connect the countries via the Hyperlink 1-3 network by realizing off-take commitments that can unlock pipeline investments; and joint projects between Danish and Dutch partners to identify the need for and development of large-scale hydrogen storage;
- fast implementation of EU regulations, especially the RED III industry targets, to incentivize industry to commit to offtaking green hydrogen and its derivatives;
- joint projects between Danish and Dutch players to secure the required funding to support the first mover producers and off-takers, especially to close the price gap between green hydrogen and fossil-based hydrogen;
- necessary support to enable the operation of offshore hydrogen infrastructure to connect Danish, German, and Dutch offshore energy hubs by mid-2030’s, and key regulation of offshore hydrogen infrastructure to come in place within the next few years;
- support for large-scale offshore hydrogen production in the North Sea, through sectoral collaboration, to utilize the offshore wind potential and produce cost-competitive hydrogen.
The cross-country initiative was also joined by a new partner – Scandiavia’s airline SAS. The airline said this partnership would drive progress toward a more sustainable future for aviation.
“We’re very excited and proud to join forces in this green hydrogen partnership, which brings us closer to a sustainable future for aviation. If Europe is to meet its climate goals and strengthen energy security, public and private sectors as well as countries must work together to build a strong green hydrogen market. We’re committed to doing our part to help drive real progress,” SAS President & CEO, Anko van der Werff, commented.
Dutch Government Advances Hydrogen Pipeline Plans Despite Setbacks
Commitment to develop hydrogen and CO2 pipelines remains strong after delays push timelines back.
The Dutch government has reiterated its commitment to the ambitious development of hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipelines, emphasizing their importance for the region’s industrial sectors, even as delays push back key project timelines by several years Announced back in June 2024, these significant developments were delayed by approximately four years. The revised plans aim for the hydrogen pipeline network, known as the Delta Rhine Corridor (DRC), to be operational by 2031-2032, with the CO2 infrastructure following suit by 2032-2033.Boudewijn Siemons, who serves as the CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, spoke positively about the government’s commitment. “It underlines the urgency of offering the industry a future,” Siemons stated. He emphasized how infrastructure is pivotal for sustainability investments, saying, “It is excellent to have such clarity going forward.”The DRC project was initially launched with feasibility studies back in 2021, outlining plans for constructing four new pipelines aimed at transporting hydrogen, CO2, propane, and C4-LPG. These pipelines will connect Rotterdam, Chemelot, and North Rhine-Westphalia, marking a significant step toward the integration of hydrogen across these regional industrial clusters.One of the key projects under consideration involves using ammonia as a carrier for hydrogen. While this concept is promising, it currently lies beyond the immediate development focus of the project and would require additional research and planning.This pipeline infrastructure is the result of collaboration among several major partners like BASF, Gasunie, Open Grid Europe, and Shell. The importance of these developments has been reiterated frequently online by the Port of Rotterdam. Officials have stressed the need for the rapid construction of hydrogen and CO2 infrastructure to kickstart the hydrogen market.“It is important news for companies currently considering investing in the production, storage, and/or purchase of hydrogen,” the port stated, indicating strong interest from various stakeholders awaiting the infrastructure’s completion.Over the past year, pipeline development has encountered significant challenges, particularly with insufficient demand being cited as the main roadblock for project developers. This is not only limited to the Netherlands; for example, Energinet has recently delayed its plans for constructing hydrogen pipelines connecting Denmark and Germany, shifting the planned completion from 2028 to 2031 due to similar maturity concerns of various infrastructure projects.Energy sectors across Europe are witnessing changes aimed at enhancing clean energy solutions, and hydrogen plays a key role. Experts suggest sectors like transportation, chemicals, and steel could benefit immensely by integrating hydrogen solutions, which are considered both cleaner and more sustainable than traditional energy sources.Importantly, the development of hydrogen infrastructure doesn’t merely serve Dutch industry but aims to cater to wider European needs as well. The Netherlands and Germany’s growing hydrogen ecosystem is expected to significantly contribute toward achieving the EU’s long-term carbon reduction targets.Recent assessments reveal the Netherlands and Belgium could supply nearly two-thirds of the EU’s hydrogen import targets, underscoring the strategic significance of these nations in the hydrogen market. This collaboration aligns with the broader European Green Deal, which aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050.To maintain momentum on these projects, continued collaboration among industry stakeholders is deemed necessary. The Port of Rotterdam has pledged to work closely with its partners to speed things up wherever possible, hoping this will invigorate the market and draw more investment.Overall, the Dutch government’s commitment to prioritizing hydrogen and CO2 pipelines reflects a broader shift toward cleaner energy sources—a move seen not just as beneficial for the present but also as laying down the groundwork for future energy needs. Companies are preparing and strategizing around these forthcoming developments, eager to capitalize on the opportunities offered by this burgeoning energy sector.There is much at stake; the success of this initiative could pave the way for more integrated and sustainable energy solutions across Europe, and the world will be watching how these plans materialize.For anyone following the progress, this story is far from over; instead, it marks the beginning of what could be revolutionary changes not just for the Dutch energy sector, but for Europe’s energy future.Expect more updates as milestones are hit and as projects like the Delta Rhine Corridor evolve from plans to reality, shaping the new energy infrastructure for generations to come.
Ref: https://evrimagaci.org/tpg/dutch-government-advances-hydrogen-pipeline-plans-despite-setbacks-80023
Hydrogen to start to flow in pipelines in Germany in 2025
Germany will see the first hydrogen flow in pipelines from next year after the country’s “core hydrogen grid” was approved. The backbone of the long-distance transmission network for hydrogen will be slightly smaller than initially planned. The energy industry widely welcomed the approval, while southern German state representatives said the design leaves them at a disadvantage. [UPDATE: Adds reactions, background] Germany is set to see the first hydrogen flow in pipelines in 2025 following approval of the country’s hydrogen “core grid” by the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA). “The first hydrogen pipelines of the core grid will go into operation as early as next year,” economy minister Robert Habeck said during a press conference. “The core grid is the starting point for a new infrastructure and a central component of the energy transition. This makes Germany a pioneer in Europe.” The core grid is set to be completed by 2032 and will cost nearly 19 billion euros. It will be made up of 9,040 kilometres of pipeline that will be finalised over the next few years. That is about 600 kilometres less than in the initial approval application – a reduction Habeck said will keep grid fees down. All federal states will be connected to the network, which will link the focal points of hydrogen production, consumption, storage and import. Habeck likened the hydrogen grid to the autobahn (Germany’s motorway), saying that the big arteries had to be built first, with smaller feeder roads connecting companies and power plants coming later. The grid – a key part of the country’s plans to reach net-zero by 2045 – “will now be built,” Habeck said, adding that his ministry had taken the project from idea to approval in “record” time. That is despite criticisms that the process has been too slow. Around 60 percent of the grid will be converted gas pipelines and 40 percent will be newly built. Only pipelines no longer needed for transportation of the fossil fuel will be converted, while an extra 2 billion euros will be invested in additional gas pipelines to ensure security of supply, said BNetzA head Klaus Müller at the press conference. The BNetzA plans to present a network development plan for electricity, gas and hydrogen in the summer, detailing which cities and municipalities will be further connected, Tagesspiegel Background reported.
Energy industry welcomes approval
Germany’s National Hydrogen Council, an independent government advisory body, welcomed the BNetzA‘s approval, saying it was an “important signal” for the green energy transition that would help make Germany a pioneer in hydrogen infrastructure. Energy industry association BDEW called the approval “a milestone” and an “important signal” for all wanting to produce or use hydrogen in the future. “The hydrogen ramp-up can only succeed with a well-developed network,” BDEW head Kerstin Andreae said. German Energy Agency (dena) head Corinna Enders also called the approval a “landmark decision”. “The approval is an important signal for all players involved in the hydrogen market ramp-up: there is now clarity about where hydrogen pipelines will be located in the transmission network in the future – and where not,” she said. “Today’s approval of the core network is groundbreaking in terms of breaking the mutual wait-and-see approach to investment decisions.”
Southern states feel left behind
Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, economic affairs minister in the southern state of Baden-Württemberg, criticised the plans, saying that large parts of the state continue to be ignored despite a fifth of the country’s industrial value creation taking place there. “If one of the economically strongest federal states is neglected in this way, Germany’s economic strength as a whole will be jeopardised,” she said. Andreas Jung, climate and energy policy spokesman for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, called the plans a “a low blow to the south and a bitter disappointment”, adding that the core grid had “a glaring north-south skew”. A July survey by business daily Handelsblatt found that industry in southwestern Germany worried it would be left behind as planning for the country’s core hydrogen grid advanced, with regional chambers of industry and commerce fearing they will not be able to participate in the transition.
Hydrogen to play central role in Germany’s future energy mix
In the fight against climate change, hydrogen made with renewable electricity is seen as essential for the decarbonisation of sectors with particularly stubborn emissions, such as heavy industry and aviation.
Germany has set out to become a global leader in the associated hydrogen technologies, and the government has penned a National Hydrogen Strategy to achieve these ambitions. The country will largely have to import the fuel in future due to unfavourable local conditions for renewable electricity production.
However, a recent report by environmental think tank Wuppertal Institute said that many states will focus on ramping up production for domestic demand first. The report suggested Germany needed “more in-house production” of hydrogen, while at the same time bolstering global alliances. The authors called for an increase in cooperation across Europe to expand the H2 economy.
Ref: https://www.cleanenergywire.org/news/hydrogen-start-flow-pipelines-germany-2025
H2 Mobility, Daimler Buses partner for hydrogen development in Germany
The cooperation enables the use of public hydrogen stations provided by H2, expanding the bus manufacturer’s capabilities through a holistic consulting approach.
Last update: October 22, 2024
© H2 Mobility
Daimler Buses and H2 Mobility are cooperating in the expansion of the hydrogen tank infrastructure for transportation companies.
From now on, the bus manufacturer will be brokering the range of hydrogen tank services for buses with hydrogen-based fuel cells as part of a holistic consulting approach. H2 Mobility is building further hydrogen filling stations in the direct vicinity of transportation companies in a demand-oriented manner.
The publicly accessible filling stations are operated by the company, eliminating investment and operating costs for bus operators. At the same time, the public H2 tank infrastructure will be strengthened and further expanded.
“With this cooperation, we are creating optimal solutions for hydrogen mobility in local and long-distance passenger transport. By using the public H2 Mobility filling station network, companies benefit from enormous cost savings, and from our technical and operational experience gained over the last ten years,” said Falk Schulte-Wintrop, Director Sales & Business Development at H2 Mobility.
This cooperation supplements the existing portfolio with a solution for hydrogen tank systems, which outsources the entire complexity and is easy to implement for Daimler Buses customers.
Before the end of the year, the H2 Mobility station network will offer buses and trucks the option of refueling at 350 bar at more than 50 locations. The company currently operates 34 of these stations in Germany.
Ref: https://www.mobilityplaza.org/news/39224
Yara drives hydrogen economy with new ammonia import terminal
Aerial view of the Brunsbüttel plant
Today, Yara International officially opened its new ammonia import terminal in Brunsbüttel, Germany. Brunsbüttel is located on the North Sea and Kiel Canal, making it an ideal hub for enabling the hydrogen economy in Germany. With the new terminal, Yara has the infrastructure to enable imports of up to three million tonnes of low-emission ammonia to Europe annually.
Yara, the world’s leading crop nutrition company, today inaugurates its new ammonia import terminal in Brunsbüttel in the presence of representatives from German and Norwegian authorities. The terminal is part of Yara’s strategy to strengthen its core nitrogen business while generating value-accretive growth in a low-carbon future. “As the world’s largest shipper and distributer of ammonia, Yara Clean Ammonia is in a pole position to secure low-emission ammonia supply to Germany, at competitive prices. With its leading global ammonia position, Yara can help kick-start the German hydrogen economy, laying the ground for a net zero future,” says Hans Olav Raen, CEO Yara Clean Ammonia. Up to 3 million tonnes of low-CO2 ammonia can be imported annually via the terminal in Brunsbüttel. This would correspond to 530,000 tonnes of hydrogen or around 5% of the total European hydrogen target for 2030.
With its significant import capacity, Yara’s new terminal in Brunsbüttel will play an important role in enabling the German hydrogen strategy and contribute to the country’s energy transition. Uniquely located on the North Sea and the Kiel Canal, Brunsbüttel is ideally placed to become a central hub, not only for Germany, but also for Europe’s hydrogen economy.
“For 50 years, we have been manufacturing products of fundamental importance to Germany and Europe here at the Brunsbüttel site. Today’s inauguration represents a new milestone and an important step towards a low-carbon future” states Sven Kohnke, plant manager Yara Brunsbüttel. The ammonia can be delivered directly from the terminal to the point of use, where it could be cracked to low-emission hydrogen. The competitiveness of German industry, not least steel and chemicals, can only be maintained through decarbonization. This can be achieved through cracking low-emission ammonia to hydrogen, for which significant quantities of ammonia will be needed.
Yara Sela at the import terminal
Low-emission ammonia is produced by electrolysis using renewable electricity or using carbon capture and storage (CCS). Low-emission ammonia has key advantages that makes it attractive as a decarbonization product in hard-to-abate sectors. This includes the traditional ammonia use such as fertilizers but also new applications such as a low-emission shipping fuel, emission cuts for refineries, power generation, and as a hydrogen carrier. Demand for low-emission ammonia in Germany is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection estimates that up to 70 percent of future national ammonia requirements will have to be imported by 2030. After this, the volumes will be even higher. The energy partnership between Germany and Norway plays a key role. In June, Yara officially opened its renewable hydrogen pilot plant in Norway, the plant is the largest of its kind in Europe and represents an important steppingstone towards a low-carbon future. [See also: Yara opens renewable hydrogen plant: “A major milestone” | Yara International]
Hamburg has potential to become Germany’s hydrogen hub, study finds
Fraunhofer CML analysed Hamburg’s production and import capacities for hydrogen and derivativesThe City of Hamburg has the potential to become Germany’s hydrogen hub by 2045 and to supply 10 to 18 per cent of the national demand by 2045, the deadline for greenhouse gas neutrality, according to a study by the Fraunhofer Centre for Maritime Logistics and Services (CML). The study, which focused on Hamburg’s role in the nationwide supply of green hydrogen and its derivatives, was commissioned by the Ministry of Economics and funded by the Hamburg Climate Plan.
Suitable lakeside infrastructure and sufficient space. “The Port of Hamburg will become an important transhipment centre for energy sources and will thus steer the supply for all of Germany,” Melanie Leonhard, Senator of Economics, told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa. Hamburg has all the prerequisites to become a German and European hydrogen hub and to play a key role in the energy transition, the study found. “The Port of Hamburg’s seaward infrastructure can accommodate the import volumes of green hydrogen, and its derivatives forecast for 2045, covering 47 per cent of Germany’s total seaward import demand,” Patrick Zimmermann, author of the study, told the Renewable Energy Hamburg Cluster (EEHH). The port also has the space needed for the production and seaborne import of hydrogen and its derivatives such as ammonia, methanol and e-fuels. There are also sufficient ports and berths for tankers.Rising production and seaborne hydrogen imports . Production and seaborne imports of hydrogen-based energy sources will increase significantly, the study found. However, that requires the construction of new liquid bulk terminals to import hydrogen and ammonia. New seaborne import facilities are recommended especially the Sustainable Energy Hub (SEH) zone. The electrolyzer in Moorburg is among key production projects planned in Hamburg. The decommissioned coal-fired power plant will be converted into the “Hamburg Green Hydrogen Hub” (HGHH). Construction of the electrolyser is due to begin in 2025. Hamburg’s key role in green energy imports. New transport infrastructure, especially railways and waterways, should be built and existing infrastructure should be maintained to transport hydrogen and to the hinterland, the study recommends. The use of barges to transport hydrogen would also offer more means of transport and improved safety. Large quantities of hydrogen would also be transported and distributed in gaseous form in pipelines to the hinterland. The successful implementation of the Hamburg Hydrogen Industrial Network (HH-WIN) by Gasnetz Hamburg and its connection to the European pipeline network, the “Hydrogen Backbone Europe”, is thus hugely important. HH-WIN will connect the Port of Hamburg to this network. Hamburg will play a key role in green energy imports for Germany in future, as significant quantities will have to be imported from the sea and the infrastructure is in place. “The potential is there, but the entrepreneurial implementation is another matter,” Zimmermann concluded.
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Germany should consider hydrogen derived from iron – report
Clean Energy Wire
Germany should consider the import of direct reduced iron as a way to produce the hydrogen that is needed to generate electricity in its planned backup power plants, says a report by Norwegian consultancy DNV on behalf of the Climate Neutrality Foundation. This “less conventional” route of hydrogen supply called “Iron-to-Hydrogen” is “a potentially cost-effective and safe option for sourcing green hydrogen for Germany’s back-up power plants,” said the report.
The report does not make a comparison to pipeline imports from neighbouring countries. It instead focusses on domestic production with electrolysers, iron-to-hydrogen, and import through ammonia as a hydrogen carrier.
Using green hydrogen, direct reduced iron (DRI) would be produced in countries with favourable renewables conditions, and then transported to Germany, said the report. At its destitnation, the iron could be oxidised at high temperatures and by adding water and a catalyst to release hydrogen, which is then used to generate electricity. The technology would yet have to be further matured, but should be considered, as it has the potential to be the lowest cost of the three value chains studied, said the report.
However, energy efficiency is lower than with green hydrogen production in Germany or the import of ammonia, said the report. To provide 10 terawatt hours (TWh) per year to the German grid, nearly 60 TWh per year of renewable energy need to be produced in the supplier country. The total energy efficiency of the value chain is therefore 17 percent (domestic production: 31%, ammonia import: 19%). Roughly 21 percent of the original energy is lost in the hydrogen production process, 32 percent is lost in the DRI production process, 7 percent is lost in transport, 3 percent is lost in reconversion and 21 percent is lost in power generation.
In the fight against climate change, hydrogen made with renewable electricity is seen as essential for the decarbonisation of sectors with particularly stubborn emissions, such as heavy industry and aviation. Many experts doubt that green hydrogen will play the large role many industry representatives and governments aim for. This is due to factors like costs, the availability of alternatives and restraints connected to the fuel’s physical properties, such as its comparatively low volume energy density. The German government said the country will largely have to import the fuel due to unfavourable local conditions for additional renewable electricity production to produce the greenhouse gas neutral fuel.
Ref: https://www.cleanenergywire.org/news/germany-should-consider-hydrogen-derived-iron-report
Lhyfe and KEYOU ink MoU for hydrogen mobility in Germany
Lhyfe has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with KEYOU to advance hydrogen mobility in Germany and Europe. Lhyfe is constructing a production plant in Schwäbisch Gmünd, near Stuttgart, Germany, which is expected to be operational by year-end. The facility will produce up to 4 tonnes of green hydrogen daily (with a 10 MW installed capacity). Lhyfe has secured a 15-year corporate PPA with EDP Renewables to ensure a steady supply of renewable electricity.
Furthermore, with this production capacity, KEYOU aims to deploy up to 100 hydrogen-powered vehicles between 2026 and 2030, starting in the Schwäbisch-Gmünd area and expanding to other German regions. The project will see an annual ramp-up of 20 trucks, with an estimated hydrogen demand of around 1,000 tonnes per year to support 100 vehicles.
Earlier this year, Lhyfe signed a five-year agreement with H2 MOBILITY Deutschland to supply green hydrogen for the transportation sector. The initial supply will support four H2 MOBILITY fueling stations in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate, beginning with locations in Ludwigshafen and Frankenthal.
Ref: https://renewablewatch.in/2024/10/21/lhyfe-and-keyou-ink-mou-for-hydrogen-mobility-in-germany/
India and Germany forge green hydrogen ties
To promote the market ramp-up of green hydrogen and enhance cooperation in climate action and sustainable development, India and Germany have launched the “Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap.”
The countries released the roadmap during the seventh round of India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (7th IGC) on October 25, 2024, in New Delhi. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz co-chaired the event.
As disclosed, the roadmap is expected to help support India’s ambition for the production, usage and export of green hydrogen while also contributing to its swifter adoption as a sustainable source of energy in both countries.
To note, during the 6th IGC, both governments announced the “Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP),” which serves as an umbrella for bilateral formats and joint initiatives in this field. Subsequently, both sides signed the migration and mobility partnership agreement (MMPA) in December 2022 and launched the “India-Germany Vision to Enhance Cooperation in Innovation and Technology” in February 2023.
Recalling the outcomes of the sixth IGC and various agreements concluded by the two sides thereafter, the countries launched the “India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap” and introduced the “Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap.”
During the event, both governments also welcomed the milestones already achieved with respect to the existing initiatives and new commitments for financial and technical cooperation under the framework of the GSDP.
Specifically, under the “Indo-German Renewable Energy Partnership,” the countries’ cooperation focused on innovative solar energy, green hydrogen, other renewables, grid integration, storage and investments in the renewable energy sector.
To remind, in 2024, India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) issued scheme guidelines for setting up hydrogen hubs in the country under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which was launched on January 4, 2023, to make India a global hub for the production, usage and export of green hydrogen and its derivativesMoreover, India’s government released a scheme that aims to support retrofitting existing vessels to run on green hydrogen. This scheme will also support the development of bunkering and refuelling facilities in ports for green hydrogen-based fuels.
Ref: https://www.offshore-energy.biz/india-and-germany-forge-green-hydrogen-ties/
How Germany is dominating hydrogen
Fueling and clean energy expert, Dover Fueling Solutions® (DFS), takes a deeper dive into the German Hydrogen market and explores the enablers that are helping to transform Germany into a clean energy powerhouse.
Last update: October 9, 2024 | Advertorial
© Dover Fueling Solutions®
How is Germany dominating the hydrogen market?
In Summer 2023, the German Government unveiled its hotly anticipated plans to double its green hydrogen production target from 5GW to 10GW by 2030. The 10GW of electrolyzers are predicted to produce about a million tons of green hydrogen annually. This can help support the country’s industrial applications, such as heavy-duty transport, while also providing wider economic opportunities. This investment means that Germany is set to boast more hydrogen valleys than any other country in the world by 2033. In comparison, France is expected to sit in second place with four while the UK and the Netherlands are expected to have two apiece. A Hydrogen Valley is typically a region encompassing various hydrogen-based activities in one interconnected area. This includes projects that produce, distribute, and use hydrogen, such as production facilities, storage solutions, and transport infrastructure like service stations and hydrogen dispensers. This would undoubtedly bring massive benefits to Germany and position the country as a world leader in hydrogen power, with the potential to supercharge the economy.
Why is Germany dominating hydrogen?
Germany has established a dominant position in the hydrogen market. But why is this the case, and what are some of the reasons underpinning such large-scale growth?
German business culture
At the heart of Germany’s success with hydrogen-powered transport lies its distinctive business culture. Worth 457.7 billion euros a year to the German economy, the company’s car manufacturing sector has cultivated a worldwide reputation for innovation and attention to detail. It’s little surprise the German government has been promoting hydrogen vehicles for years, with many of the major German manufacturers investing in hydrogen as “the” clean fuel source of the future. BMW, for instance, is aiming for a mass-market passenger car model to be ready for release around 2030. Meanwhile, Audi is similarly assembling a team of 100+ engineers to spearhead its own hydrogen fuel cell research on behalf of the VW Group. German investment extends beyond its blue-chip companies, with significant investments in research and development opportunities in the Far East. The German government recently poured millions into the production of Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell vehicle – the Mirai. As a result, Toyota supplied 200 hydrogen-powered Uber taxis to Berlin as part of the two-year pilot project ‘H2 Moves Berlin’. In addition to this, 5000 hydrogen-powered electric trucks are expected to hit German roads soon, each with an impressive 400 km range per filling. Meanwhile, in the public transport arena, the city of Frankfurt is expected to convert its entire bus fleet to hydrogen power by 2030.
Hydrogen shows – a showcase for innovation
Germany’s prominence in leading hydrogen shows and expos further underscores its commitment to advancing hydrogen-powered transport. These events serve as platforms for showcasing the latest innovations in hydrogen mobility, bringing together manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers from the entire supply chain. Hydrogen exhibitions in Germany provide a tangible glimpse into the advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. These shows act as catalysts for partnerships and investments, further propelling the growth of the hydrogen transport sector. The collaborative spirit witnessed at these events contributes to the continuous refinement and improvement of hydrogen-powered vehicles, solidifying Germany’s position as a global leader in the field.
DFS Hydrogen dispenser | © Dover Fueling Solutions®
Government incentives and infrastructure
In recent years, the German government has signaled a clear shift to hydrogen power by subsidizing businesses as they transition to it. In total, the government has earmarked $17 billion in subsidies to accelerate the transition to net zero. To support this, the centers help companies in their development, specifically within the transport sector. This commitment to infrastructure development is not limited to urban centers but extends to highways, ensuring that hydrogen-powered vehicles can traverse the nation with ease. The strategic placement of hydrogen refueling stations also complements Germany’s ambitious plans for the future. The government’s vision involves creating a comprehensive network of hydrogen corridors that facilitate long-distance travel, making hydrogen-powered transport a viable option for a broad spectrum of users. This infrastructure-focused approach positions Germany as a leader in the practical implementation of hydrogen mobility solutions. It’s clear that Germany is simply more knowledgeable about hydrogen power and in a stronger position to grow.
Cultural attitudes
On a more sociological level, it’s clear that environmentally conscious attitudes pervade the general population in comparison to many other countries. According to a recent survey, 38% of Germans chose ‘environmental concerns’ as their top priority for Government versus 31% in the UK, 26% in the Netherlands and 22% in the USA. When we drill down deeper into the data, we see that German people generally have environmentally friendly attitudes across various areas of life. 37.4% strongly agree that climate neutrality is the most pressing challenge currently facing humanity, while 42.2% completely agree that local provenance is a top priority when buying groceries. Typically, food grown and bought locally will have a lower carbon footprint. These commonly-held social values can help influence policy on a wider Government level.
While the German government is unquestionably exploring other clean fuel alternatives, it is clear that hydrogen forms an essential part of Germany’s decarbonization mix. With significant business investment and a firm infrastructure in place, Germany is expected to remain a global leader for many years to come. This is not only to assist its landmark clean energy transition but also as a promising growth market.
Ref: https://www.mobilityplaza.org/news/39122
Thyssenkrupp green steel doubts put Germany’s hydrogen network at risk – grid operator
Handelsblatt
Doubts over Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe’s (TKSE) strategy to decarbonise using hydrogen puts Germany’s plans for the construction of a hydrogen core grid at risk, gas grid operator Open Grid Europe (OGE) has warned. “TKSE Europe is supposed to be one of the top buyers of hydrogen. A loss of demand from TKSE will have a noticeable impact on the hydrogen core network,” OGE head Thomas Hüwener told business daily Handelsblatt. Earlier this month, TKSE said it was reviewing its decarbonisation strategy. According to media reports, the steel group is considering a halt to a 3 billion euro hydrogen-based direct reduction project that forms the core of its decarbonisation strategy. “It cannot be denied that the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy is currently not going smoothly. A few dark clouds have gathered,” Hüwener said, also with a view to the recent cancellation of Norwegian low-carbon hydrogen projects. Germany’s proposed hydrogen core network is a pipeline grid connecting the focal points of hydrogen production, consumption and storage. Due to be completed in 2032, the network is meant to include a total of 9,666 kilometres of lines, around 60 percent of which are already used to transport gas. Germany’s gas transmission system operators applied for the network to the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) in July. Steel producers are expected to significantly contribute to the development of Germany’s “hydrogen economy”. The federal government is funding TKSE and other steel companies to the tune of 7 billion euros to help transform steel production to hydrogen-based processes, according to Handelsblatt.
German energy company slows investments due to lack of green hydrogen demand
German energy company Uniper has postponed its target to invest eight billion euros in growth and the green transformation by 2030 also due to a lack of demand for green hydrogen, CEO Michael Lewis told Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ). “As things stand today, there are hardly any major customers who buy green hydrogen,” he said. “That’s why we have to step on the brakes a little.” Low energy prices and slower-than-expected regulatory reforms were other reasons for the decision, Lewis added. The company would now aim for reaching the investment volume “by the early 2030s” and concentrate on projects “that make the greatest contribution from a strategic and financial perspective.” Uniper still aims to exit coal by 2029, but reaching its target of 80 percent renewables would become “very difficult,” said Lewis. The manager called for a long-term system of incentives for a certain volume of green hydrogen akin to the renewables support system. “There is a large gap between the price of natural gas and that of blue or even green hydrogen,” Lewis said. “The state would have to agree to close this gap.” Government plans for green hydrogen, which is made from renewable electricity through electrolysis, see the synthetic gas playing a crucial role in the decarbonisation of many hard-to-abate sectors, such as steelmaking or the chemical industry. However, hurdles for the market ramp-up are high from a technological and cost perspective. Researchers from Harvard University recently said that the cost for storage and distribution will likely make green hydrogen a “prohibitively expensive abatement strategy across many major sectors.”
Danish-German hydrogen pipeline delayed by three years
Clean Energy Wire
Danish electricity and gas transmission system operator Energinet has postponed the planned commissioning date for the first cross-border hydrogen pipeline into Germany to the end of 2031 (from 2028). In addition, key connections within Denmark would now be commissioned by 2032 and 2033, said Energinet. It said that the land-based pipeline project is more complex from a technical and market perspective, that more time is needed because of changes to the capacity bidding process, and that there are longer planning and environmental permit processes.
Denmark’s climate, energy and utilities minister Lars Aagaard called the new timeline “far from ideal” and added that his government “is keen to ensure an efficient interaction between the great amounts of renewable electricity from the ongoing offshore wind tenders, the production of green hydrogen and the German demand.” His ministry remains positive in its expectations that Germany will demand large volumes of green hydrogen. “The signal from Germany is strong,” it said. “There will be great demand for green hydrogen transported through the Danish-German hydrogen infrastructure.”
The project, agreed in March 2023, is intended to become the first cross-border hydrogen pipeline to Germany. The German government had bet on the speedy realisation of the pipeline project with Denmark to “provide an important impetus for other cross-border hydrogen projects,” as it said in its hydrogen import strategy adopted in summer 2024.
Green hydrogen is set to play a crucial role in the decarbonisation of many hard-to-abate sectors, such as steelmaking or the chemical industry. But Germany is unlikely to cover the entire projected demand with local production.
Ref: https://www.cleanenergywire.org/news/danish-german-hydrogen-pipeline-delayed-three-years
01 Oct 2024, 13:09 Sören Amelang | Germany Offshore hydrogen production on “energy islands” could save Germany €4 bln per year – report
Clean Energy Wire
Building “energy islands” in the North Sea to produce green hydrogen using 20 gigawatts of offshore wind power can save Germany billions of euros, according to a report by the Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology (Fraunhofer IEE). “Germany can achieve annual savings of up to 4.3 billion euros by establishing offshore hydrogen production on two energy islands,” which would be connected to 10 gigawatts offshore capacity each, located around 150 kilometres from shore with a limited connection to the power grid, concludes the report, which was commissioned by Copenhagen Energy Islands, a company dedicated to the development of energy islands. The cost advantages are in comparison to a scenario whereby all the offshore wind electricity is fed into the mainland power grid for the hydrogen production.
“The savings are primarily driven by reduced grid buildout costs, especially cables from the coastline to the centre of Germany,” as well as higher utilisation of high voltage direct current (HVDC) cables, the report said, adding that producing hydrogen offshore is more efficient than onshore because of lower energy losses and less grid buildout requirements.
The report looked at the construction of islands that are connected to the mainland only via a hydrogen pipeline and a scenario that added a limited grid connection. The researchers found that adding a limited grid connection to other offshore wind farms’ converter platforms brings cost benefits because “in times of low offshore wind and high solar PV generation, connecting the [offshore energy islands] on the electricity side can make it possible to convert the surplus solar PV electricity into hydrogen.” At times of low renewable supply and high electricity prices, offshore electricity can be fed into the grid. “This increases flexibility of the overall energy system, creating positive system effects,” Fraunhofer IEE said.
Germany aims to reach 40 GW of offshore wind power capacity by 2035 and 70 GW by 2045. Germany and Denmark already signed a binding cooperation agreement for a joint offshore wind power project on the Danish Baltic Sea island of Bornholm last year. Both countries also agreed cooperation on the construction of offshore islands in 2020.
‘Groundbreaking step’: Australia and Germany commit to contribute €400M to joint H2Global hydrogen auction Business Developments & Projects September 13, 2024, by Ajsa Habibic
Germany and Australia are expanding their energy cooperation through a joint declaration of intent under which each country committed to contribute €200 million to a joint H2Global auction, an initiative aiming to address the cost-of-difference of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives while establishing global supply chains for renewable hydrogen products.
Courtesy of H2Global
H2Global mechanism facilities import and export of clean fuels such as renewable hydrogen derivatives, including ammonia and methanol, from regions with cost-effective production to high-demand markets Building on their previously established energy cooperation, Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, and German State Secretary for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Anja Hajduk, signed a joint declaration of intent that includes a combined €400 million contribution to the bilateral H2Global tender.Described as a groundbreaking step, the declaration enables Australia to participate in the H2Global scheme, marking the first agreement with a country south of the equator. Specifically, this strategic partnership will enable Australia to establish renewable hydrogen shipping corridors to Europe and beyond, while providing Australian companies access to European markets for hydrogen and ammonia. In turn, Europe will benefit from competitively priced, clean energy products, the parties said. The joint H2Global tender will help bridge the price gap of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives produced in Australia and sold in Europe. The initial hydrogen purchase auction is scheduled to begin in 2025, with the first annual sales auction targeted for 2027/2028.
Susana Moreira, Executive Director of H2Global Foundation, welcomed the announcement: “H2Global is excited to be part of this landmark agreement between Australia and Germany. This collaboration marks a major step towards global markets for clean fuels, building on the success of the first H2Global pilot auction.” Timo Bollerhey, CEO of Hintco and Co-Creator of H2Global, commented: “The H2Global mechanism now has EUR 5.83bn of funds in its pipeline to help create and scale clean fuel markets. The double-sided auction mechanism delivers price signals and investment decisions that accelerate the energy transition.” The results of the first H2Global pilot auction for renewable ammonia, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), were announced in July this year, revealing Abu Dhabi-based Fertiglobe, a strategic partnership between ADNOC and OCI Global, as the winning bidder. Fertiglobe will start producing renewable ammonia destined for delivery in European ports in 2027 for a maximum contract value of €397 million. The delivery will start at a potential 19,500 tons in 2027 (subject to actual production start date and supply availability), with volumes potentially scaling up to 397,000 tons cumulatively by 2033, at a delivered contract price of €1,000 per ton.
Saudi Arabia and France Agree to Enhance Cooperation in Hydrogen and Electricity Production From Renewable Resources
Saudi Gazette
Agreement reached during meeting of Saudi, French energy ministers.
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia and France have agreed to enhance multifaceted aspects of cooperation in the energy sector. Both countries have placed hydrogen and electricity produced from low emission and renewable resources at the core of their respective energy cooperation, according a joint communiqué issued following the meeting of Saudi Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and French Minister for Energy Transition Agnes Pannier-Runacher, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
According to the statement, both governments acknowledge that energy is one of the main pillars of their mutual long-term partnership, and the two countries affirmed their commitments earlier by signing a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in the field of energy on 2 February 2023.
Both countries acknowledge the importance of advancing the implementation of the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement in accordance with the principles, objectives and goals defined therein, including pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C.
Addressing climate change and promoting secure, reliable, affordable and sustainable supplies of energy are shared strategic priorities of Saudi Arabia and France. Moreover, the two countries recognize that clean hydrogen is an essential fuel to reach the shared objective of promoting a sustainable economic development while mitigating the impact of climate change.
Additionally, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of electricity, and exchange experiences in the field of electricity generation from renewable energy resources, grid interconnection projects, as well as encouraging the participation of private sectors in power sector projects including generation, transmission, distribution, storage and network automation technologies.
Both countries have agreed to engage in joint efforts to enhance energy efficiency, and to enhance their cooperation in the field of nuclear energy in a peaceful and safe framework, the management of radioactive waste and the nuclear applications, and the development of human capabilities.
Saudi Arabia and France agreed to cooperate on advancing climate technologies and solutions including carbon capture utilization and storage for hard-to-abate sectors such as cement, aviation, marine, and petrochemicals, among others.
The Kingdom aims to become the leading exporter of hydrogen and electricity produced from low emission resources globally, capitalizing on its ability to produce hydrogen and electricity produced from low emission resources at competitive cost.
The Kingdom has the necessary resources of renewable energy, natural gas and carbon sinks, to export hydrogen in addition to its strategic location with proximity to major global demand centers. The French strategy for the development of decarbonized hydrogen aims at having a significant contribution to the decarbonization of industry and transport.
The strategy includes a public investment program, France 2030, aimed at accelerating investment and innovative solutions in sectors of French excellence to decarbonize industry and to develop renewable energy with the goal to increase the renewable power installed capacity up to 100GW by 2050, with more than 40 GW coming from offshore wind farms.
France and Saudi Arabia have placed hydrogen and electricity produced from low emission and renewable resources at the core of their respective energy transition. Both countries decided to join forces in the search for innovative solutions to produce hydrogen in the most effective and competitive way, and to develop its use in industry, mobility, power generation, buildings and other relevant applications.
To this end, France and Saudi Arabia agreed on a hydrogen cooperation and electricity produced from renewable resources roadmap focusing on three pillars: • Technology development: Cooperation will advance hydrogen and electricity produced from renewable technology deployment from production, transportation and conversion at demand centers; • Business co-operation: the private sector has a critical role to play, Saudi – France cooperation welcomes joint efforts between Saudi and French companies to partner in the entire energy supply chain to unlock business and hydrogen trade; • Policies and regulation: the roadmap will further promote the development of the hydrogen industry through a mutual recognition of certification framework including emission life cycle assessment from all possible sources necessary for consistency in international trade.
Both countries will work to enhance their cooperation in developing and sustaining supply chains for the energy sectors and to enable cooperation between companies to maximize the utilization of local resources in both countries, which contributes to achieving flexibility and effectiveness of energy supplies.
The parties would support the creation of a “French-Saudi Task-Force” aiming to deliver desired outcomes from cooperation in hydrogen and other domains, it was agreed by both countries.
Stay Updated on the Latest Hydrogen Market Trends with FCW News
Source:
https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/647699
Ref: https://fuelcellsworks.com/2024/12/09/clean-energy/saudi-arabia-and-france-agree-to-enhance-cooperation-in-hydrogen-and-electricity-production-from-renewable-resources
Renewable hydrogen production: Air Liquide strengthens its partnership with TotalEnergies through a new major project in the south of France
Air Liquide announces a renewable hydrogen production project at La Mède (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in France). In the context of a long-term contract, Air Liquide will cover the hydrogen needs of TotalEnergie’s biorefinery. This project will contribute to the emergence of a new renewable hydrogen ecosystem in the Fos-sur-Mer area, a major industrial basin for Air Liquide in France.
In the framework of a long-term contract, Air Liquide will build, own and operate a new hydrogen production unit at TotalEnergies’ La Mède site, with a capacity of 25,000 tonnes per year. It will enable the production of renewable hydrogen from recycled biogenic by-products from the TotalEnergies biorefinery, instead of using fossil hydrocarbons as feedstock. The renewable hydrogen produced will be used mainly by the biorefinery for the production of biofuels and Sustainable Air Fuels (SAF).
This renewable hydrogen production unit, the largest on La Mède industrial platform, would represent an investment of over 80 million euros for Air Liquide. Planned to be operational in 2028, it will significantly contribute to the decarbonization of the biorefinery, where TotalEnergies aims to reduce CO₂ emissions by around 130,000 tonnes per year.
This project represents a new stage in the decarbonization of Air Liquide’s hydrogen network production sources. It will help strengthen the Group’s presence and capacity to meet current and future needs for decarbonized hydrogen in the Fos-sur-Mer area. Furthermore, this project is in line with Air Liquide’s commitment to supporting decarbonization initiatives launched by industrial partners locally. Air Liquide has been present in the region for over 50 years, and already operates three air separation units, a hydrogen production unit and a hydrogen network. In Fos-sur-Mer, for example, it operates Europe’s first high-pressure hydrogen station for long-distance trucks.
Emilie Mouren-Renouard, member of Air Liquide’s Executive Committee, notably supervising the Group’s operations in Europe, said:
“We are proud to support TotalEnergies in its project to decarbonize the La Mède biorefinery, thanks to our strategic positioning in the Fos-sur-Mer basin. Two years after the announcement of the circular economy project in Grandpuits, and following on from our memorandum of understanding to supply TotalEnergies’ Gonfreville refinery with renewable hydrogen from the Air Liquide Normand’Hy electrolyzer, we are continuing our partnership with TotalEnergies to serve the energy transition through the implementation of our decarbonization solutions.”
This project is in line with Air Liquide’s strategy of offering its customers a wide range of decarbonization solutions, such as CO₂ capture and low-carbon hydrogen, in response to the challenges posed by the climate emergency. This unique positioning and its technological expertise make Air Liquide a major player in the implementation of hydrogen projects to decarbonize industries and develop low-carbon mobility.
French port eyes €1.6bn of investment into green hydrogen import and production facilities
13 November 2024
The French government has allocated land at Le Havre, one of the country’s largest ports, to three industrial projects, two of which would respectively produce and import renewable hydrogen or its derivatives.
US industrial gases firm Air Products is reportedly set to invest €1.1bn ($1.2bn) into building a renewable hydrogen import hub on its parcel of land, while French-headquartered renewables company Qair has pledged €500m for an e-methanol plant at its site.
Haropa Port, which manages Le Havre as well as the ports of Rouen and Paris, noted in its announcement of the land allocation that Air Products will specifically import ammonia, which can then be re-converted to hydrogen and transported within the country either as a gas through pipelines or as a liquid through dedicated trailers.
Automa strengthens its presence in Europe with solar projects in France and Poland
The Brazilian company Automa establishes itself in Europe by opening an office in Portugal and deploying its solutions in five solar power plants in France and Poland in 2024.
Automa, a Brazilian company specializing in automation and optimization technologies for the energy sector, is initiating a strategic expansion in Europe. By November 2024, the company will open an operational office in Porto, Portugal, to support renewable energy producers and distributors across the continent. This initiative marks a significant step in its ambition to become a key player internationally. Since its creation 18 years ago, Automa has developed advanced technologies for various sectors, including hydropower energy, wind energy, solar energy, energy storage, and substations. The company manages 25% of Brazil’s renewable energy production, equivalent to approximately 40 GW. Building on this expertise, Automa projects that its international revenues will surpass those generated in the Brazilian market within four years.
Strengthened European presence: By 2025, Automa plans to open a commercial office in Madrid, Spain, led by Giorgio Inforzato, an expert in the European renewable energy market. This logistical reinforcement is accompanied by concrete projects: five new photovoltaic plants equipped with Automa’s technological solutions will begin operations in France and Poland during 2024. These plants are owned by EDP Renewables, a major player in the energy sector. Automa’s solutions have been validated by demanding European companies, confirming the quality and reliability of its technologies. Among the products offered are tools such as SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), Power Limitation Optimizer, and Turnkey Automation, which help enhance energy efficiency and maximize renewable energy production.
Innovative solutions supporting the energy transition
Technologies developed by Automa have allowed its clients to increase energy production by up to 5% while optimizing operational processes. To date, the company has delivered more than 1,000 projects and equipped over 200 substations worldwide. By choosing Porto as its European base, Automa benefits from a strategic location to support the rapid growth of the renewable energy market in Europe. According to Marcelo Ferreira, CEO and founder of Automa, this expansion reflects the company’s ambition to address global energy transition challenges while consolidating its position as a technological leader.
VESSEL REVIEW | Alba – Hydrogen-Powered Fishing Training Vessel for French Maritime School
AlbaLPMA Bastia
The Maritime and Aquaculture Professional Academy of Bastia (Lycée Professionnel Maritime et Aquacole de Bastia; LPMA Bastia), a maritime vocational school located on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica, has taken delivery of a new training vessel fitted with a hydrogen-electric propulsion system.
Alba was designed by French naval architecture firm Mauric and built by Chantier Naval Gatto to help LPMA Bastia train prospective fishing vessel crews in a range of areas to include navigation, research, and marine propulsion. It is the third training vessel to join the operator’s current active fleet.
The Bureau Veritas-classed vessel has a composite hull, an LOA of 19.95 metres (65.45 feet), a beam of 5.6 metres (18 feet), space for 12 students and two crewmembers, and removable winches and tackles for longline and seine fishing. The large deck area boasts a layout that was defined in close consultation with the LPMA Bastia teaching staff.
The configuration of the winches and tackles can be changed within just a few hours, enabling the vessel to easily switch between longlining and seining as required. The aft deck can also accommodate a tender or an additional fishing winch.
Hydrogen propulsion coupled with an efficient hull design
AlbaLPMA Bastia/Julien Cometto
The vessel is also fitted with removable winches and tackles for longline or seine fishing, with configuration changes possible within just a few hours. Space is reserved aft for a boat or an additional fishing winch.
Mauric said the design of the vessel required the use of the alternative design methodology, incorporating multiple risk analyses (HAZID) to define the hydrogen system architecture, its integration into the vessel and, consequently, particularly for a vessel under 20 metres (66 feet), the general vessel architecture.
Hydrogen generator being installed in the vesselMauric
Mauric explained that designing a zero-emission vessel means first designing an energy-efficient vessel. To achieve this, the company’s high-quality hydrodynamic optimisations of the vessel’s hull plan, performed through CFD calculations, enabled the development of an extremely efficient hull plan.
The hydrogen-electric propulsion arrangement will deliver a maximum operating speed of 13.5 knots while an economical cruising speed of 10 knots will enable the vessel to operate for 11 hours or sail up to 100 nautical miles. During trials, however, the boat was able to reach 15 knots. Mauric said that its work on optimising the composite structure significantly reduced the vessel’s weight, resulting in a top speed one knot higher and 10 per cent greater fuel economy than what LPMA Bastia required.
The propulsion setup consists of two Danfoss 200kW electric motors connected to two 178kWh battery packs via shaft lines as well as two EODev Solutions range extenders each fitted with nine cylinders containing hydrogen compressed at 350 bar.
The hydrogen fuel to be used by the vessel is generated through renewable means. With the aid of an electrolyser, hydrogen is converted from the excess solar energy generated by the Corsica Sole solar farm near Bastia, and this hydrogen is then transferred to cylinders and transported by road to the Port of Bastia for eventual loading on the vessel.
Ergonomic layout for effective maritime instruction
AlbaMauric
Key features include an engine compartment spacious enough to enable students and instructors to stand upright, two hydraulic deck cranes, and a large wheelhouse that would enable instruction in both manoeuvering and navigation even as the vessel is underway. The wheelhouse electronics include two Furuno radars and a sonar.
Mauric said the design ensures all areas of the vessel are accessible to multiple persons simultaneously, enabling fluid teaching, as such attributes were uncommon in vessels of these dimensions.
AlbaLPMA Bastia
Construction of Alba had a total cost of €4 million (US$4.2 million), which was funded entirely through the French government’s France Relance initiative, the aim of which was to revitalise the national economy in the wake of the negative impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
| Alba | |
| SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Type of vessel: | Training vessel |
| Classification: | Bureau Veritas |
| Flag: | France |
| Owner: | Maritime and Aquaculture Professional Academy of Bastia, France |
| Designer: | Mauric, France |
| Builder: | Chantier Naval Gatto, France |
| Hull construction material: | Composite |
| Length overall: | 19.95 metres (65.45 feet) |
| Beam: | 5.6 metres (18 feet) |
| Main engines: | 2 x Danfoss, each 200 kW |
| Maximum speed: | 13.5 knots |
| Cruising speed: | 10 knots |
| Range: | 100 nautical miles |
| Batteries: | 2 x 178 kWh |
| Radars: | 2 x Furuno |
| Cranes: | 2 |
| Other equipment installed: | 2 x EODev Solutions range extenders |
| Type of fuel: | Hydrogen |
| Crew: | 2 |
| Passengers: | 12 |
| Operational area: | Corsica, France |
Source:
‘Made in Europe’ Hydrogen is possible – in the North Sea
Renewable hydrogen made in Europe from the wind-swept waters of the North Sea offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a new pillar of European energy resilience, while also boosting Europe’s industrial competitiveness.
Disclaimer – All opinions in this column reflect the views of the author(s), not Euractiv Media.
North Sea countries aim to scale offshore wind capacity from under 30 GW to 120 GW by 2030 and 300 GW by 2050, which can be partly used for hydrogen production. [Sina Schuldt/dpa via Getty Images]
Alex Barnes and Bernd Weber and Matthias Janssen Nov 5, 2024 06:00 4 min. read Content type: Opinion Euractiv is part of the Trust Project
Europe stands at a critical juncture in its energy transition, highlighting the urgency of a clean energy shift at competitive prices.
Bernd Weber is founder and director at EPICO Climate and Innovation; Alex Barnes is visiting fellow at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies; Matthias Janssen is associate director at Frontier Economics.
Among the many avenues, renewable hydrogen made in Europe from the wind-swept waters of the North Sea offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a new pillar of European energy resilience, while also boosting Europe’s industrial competitiveness.
However without an ambitious integrated action plan, matched with smart support, this vision will remain out of reach
North Sea countries aim to scale offshore wind capacity from under 30 GW to 120 GW by 2030 and 300 GW by 2050, which can be partly used for hydrogen production.
Offshore wind farms in the North Sea have a capacity factor of 50%, significantly higher than onshore farms, becoming ideal for consistent electricity generation, and powering hydrogen electrolysers.
Producing hydrogen offshore alleviates the need for costly electricity grid expansion, both onshore and offshore, whilst enabling the exploitation of additional offshore wind far from land.
In Germany, for example, TSOs and regulator BNetzA anticipate electricity network extension costs of €320 until 2045, of which €160 billion for offshore electricity lines alone.
For distances of 100km or more, it is much cheaper to transport hydrogen by pipeline, than to transmit electricity by cable. For far-offshore wind parks, this benefit outweighs the cost required for electrolysers and for energy losses of converting electricity to hydrogen.
A dnv study, for example, estimates that connecting a 14 GW far-offshore wind park in Germany via electricity cables costs €44 billion, while a hydrogen pipeline costs €1.2 billion, plus €26 billion for the electrolyser.
Considering that we need renewable hydrogen to decarbonise hard-to-electrify sectors, and that electrolyser cost and any electrolyser losses occur anyway, offshore electrolysis makes economic sense, saving high offshore electricity transmission costs.
However, the development of Europe’s hydrogen market is facing headwinds in meeting ambitious targets.
According to a recent BCG study, not even two percent of the production capacities for green hydrogen announced for 2030 in Europe have progressed beyond the planning stage, and the European Court of Auditors called for a hydrogen ‘reality check.’
Hydrogen made in Europe must be more than a slogan; it must become a reality. This means overcoming regulatory, financial, technical, and spatial barriers.
Developing necessary infrastructure in the North Sea requires significant investment. Public and private sectors must create robust financial mechanisms that de-risk investments and incentivize private capital.
This is where innovative financing models come in.
‘Hydrogen Purchase Agreements’, long-term offtake agreements between hydrogen producers and hard-to-abate off-takers, backed by government support, can provide much-needed certainty, ensuring stable revenue streams for investors.
Beyond traditional state aid, the EU must unlock private capital. Public financing will play a crucial role in de-risking hydrogen projects in the early stages, but investors are understandably cautious.
One promising approach is Germany’s ‘intertemporal cost allocation’ enabling the construction of the recently approved 9,000+ kilometre German hydrogen core grid.
This mechanism sets pipeline network tariffs at an acceptable level for users, and provides state-backed loans and state guarantees to bridge the time until utilisation rates rise and tariff revenues exceed cost.
With similar innovative financing mechanisms, Europe can make the upfront capital investments less daunting and more attractive to private investors.
In parallel, integrated cooperation remains essential.
Governments need to create common structures across borders. Harmonizing and simplifying permitting processes and applying common regulatory standards will help ensure that investments can be realised quickly and with lower costs.
EU-wide integrated planning for electricity and hydrogen is necessary from a systemic perspective on the internal energy market.
The choice of a Danish European Commissioner-designate for Energy can help.
Demark has ambitious targets for offshore wind capacity and energy islands in the North Sea, which can support offshore wind energy generation and electrolysis. This regulatory framework makes Denmark an attractive location for investors.
The question is: Will Commissioner-designate Dan Jørgensen Europeanise these key learnings?
Ref: https://www.euractiv.com/section/eet/opinion/made-in-europe-hydrogen-is-possible-in-the-north-sea/
North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley project targets first hydrogen production by 2026
The aim of the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley project is to produce the first quantities of hydrogen by the end of 2026. It is a joint effort by Croatia, Italy, and Slovenia.
Hydrogen produced within the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley (NAHV) project should replace fossil fuels, primarily in industry and transport, local media reported.
Seventeen subprojects are being implemented in Croatia, Slovenia, and the Italian province of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Many are quite advanced, said Jerneja Sedlar, project coordinator and director of the Research and Investment Sector at Slovenian state-owned power utility Holding Slovenske Elektrarne (HSE). The first kilograms of green hydrogen, in her words, are expected in 2026.
NAHV started a year ago with a plan to last six years. Total production of hydrogen should reach 5,000 tons at the end, Sedlar added at the meeting of 37 project partners held at the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the University of Rijeka in Croatia.
The project’s goal is to create a comprehensive ecosystem of hydrogen technologies
In addition to production, the project should establish the entire ecosystem of hydrogen technologies – in transport and energy. The participants aim to establish the first international hydrogen valley in the European Union.
Croatia’s island Cres has become a new partner in the project. Mayor Marin Gregorović said the local authority intends to install hydrogen filling stations and storage and use hydrogen-fueled ships to better connect with the mainland.
The project is led by Slovenia’s HSE, which plans to start hydrogen production by 2027. In Croatia, a total of 32 green hydrogen projects are underway, of which six within NAHV.
Europe aims for 50 hydrogen valleys by 2030
The North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley was established within the European Union’s Horizon Europe initiative. The EU has awarded grants from the Clean Hydrogen Partnership to 13 hydrogen valleys, with NAHV receiving EUR 25 million.
The EU wants to have 50 hydrogen valleys under construction or in operation by 2030. They are envisaged as local industrial or transport clusters for production and supply at the local
level, according to the plan.
Hydrogen station for heavy traffic opened at the Port of Gothenburg
As one of the most truck-heavy locations in Sweden, the new station will exclusively supply green hydrogen.
© Port of Gothenburg
A hydrogen refueling station for heavy traffic has opened at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden. The site is located directly adjacent to one of the port’s busiest gates, which is also one of the most truck-heavy locations in the country.
The station is operated by Hydri, a company focused on building a Swedish hydrogen infrastructure network through around 20 hydrogen stations during 2024 and 2025. This is the first and is partially funded by the Swedish Energy Agency.
“The large flow of trucks to the port and the possibility to refuel work machinery make the location for this hydrogen refueling station ideal. Combined with several existing charging stations around the port, heavy land transport at the Port of Gothenburg is now fully ready for a transition to both electricity and hydrogen,” says Viktor Allgurén, Head of Innovation at the Port of Gothenburg.
The facility has been located right next to Gate 6 – the entrance to the Gothenburg RoRo Terminal and will exclusively supply green hydrogen.
The access road leading to the gate is one of Sweden’s most heavily trafficked roads, with 400,000 heavy vehicle passages every year.
Ref: https://www.mobilityplaza.org/news/39106
Uniper Terminates 200 MW Hydrogen Project in Sweden Due to Market and Regulatory Challenges
Uniper and Sasol EcoFT have officially cancelled their collaborative effort to develop a hydrogen-based sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility in Sweden, citing slow market evolution and insufficient EU regulatory frameworks.
Despite this setback, Uniper continues to progress with two other hydrogen-based e-fuel projects within Sweden.
German utility Uniper, in partnership with South African chemical firm Sasol EcoFT, has abandoned its plans to construct a 200 MW hydrogen production facility for sustainable aviation fuels in northern Sweden. This decision was influenced by a combination of slow market development, inadequate regulatory support at the EU level, and significant cost increases, according to Johan Svenningsson, Uniper’s head of Swedish operations.
The project, known as SkyFuelH2, was initially unveiled in 2022 with ambitious plans to begin construction in 2025 and start production by 2028. However, logistical delays and early withdrawal by Sasol EcoFT earlier this spring foreshadowed the eventual cancellation of the project. The planned facility was to produce SAF by integrating biomass with green hydrogen, requiring substantial energy input of 200 MW.
Svenningsson highlighted the unforeseen slow pace of market readiness for such innovative fuel production, which has not aligned with the company’s initial projections. “The kind of market needed for this type of fuel production has not developed as we previously expected,” he explained to the press.
Further complicating the project’s viability were the escalating costs attributed to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising inflation, making the investment no longer commercially feasible. “We also see that the set of regulations needed at the EU level to bring this fuel to market has not developed to the extent we had hoped and will take longer than anticipated,” Svenningsson added.
This cancellation aligns with a broader trend observed across the energy sector, where firms like Equinor and Shell have also recently withdrawn from hydrogen projects. Additionally, a notable international hydrogen pipeline project between Norway and Germany was postponed, reflecting the growing uncertainties and complexities in scaling hydrogen infrastructure under current economic and regulatory conditions.
Despite these challenges, Uniper is not retreating entirely from the hydrogen arena in Sweden, as it continues to develop two other hydrogen-based e-fuel projects, underscoring its commitment to transitioning towards more sustainable energy solutions. The European Commission maintains ambitious goals for hydrogen, aiming to produce and import up to 10 million tonnes each by 2030 as part of its strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Uniper halts 200 MW Swedish hydrogen project
(Montel) German utility Uniper has cancelled plans to develop a production facility for sustainable aviation fuels in northern Sweden, citing slower market development and the lack of necessary EU regulations.
Reporting by: Wilhelm Zakrisson
The company, together with South African chemical company Sasol EcoFT, had presented plans for the plant in 2022 but has now decided to scrap the project, said Johan Svenningsson, Uniper’s head of Swedish operations.
The facility was designed to produce sustainable aviation fuels by combining biomass and green hydrogen, with an expected power demand of 200 MW.
Sasol EcoFT had already pulled out of the project this spring. Uniper is still developing two other hydrogen-based e-fuel projects in Sweden.
“The kind of market needed for this type of fuel production has not developed as we previously expected,” Svenningsson told reporters on Wednesday.
“We also see that the set of regulations needed at the EU level to bring this fuel to market has not developed to the extent we had hoped and will take longer than anticipated,” he added.
Uniper also said big cost increases for the project “due to the war in Ukraine and inflation” have made the project “no longer commercially viable”.
The European Commission has set renewable hydrogen targets to produce up 10m tonnes and import 10m tonnes by 2030 amid broader efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
However, several companies such as Equinor and Shell recently scrapped hydrogen projects, while Norway shelved a hydrogen pipeline project with Germany.
Demands for renewable hydrogen and electricity to drive the EU’s green iron and steel transition
The steel industry is responsible for around 5% of CO2 emissions in the EU and the sector needs to cut carbon emissions by 55% by 2030 to align with climate targets. By applying a scenario analysis, this report estimates potential demands for renewable electricity and renewable hydrogen in the EU’s green steel transition.
The analysis, based on data from LeadIT’s Green Steel Tracker, examines the possible renewable energy and renewable hydrogen demands for iron reduction and primary steel production in the EU.
Decarbonizing steel production in the EU will involve a significant increase in demand for renewable electricity, particularly for production of renewable hydrogen. If the transition from fossil fuel-based to renewable electricity-based iron and steel production is to succeed, there is a need for reliable estimates of how much renewable electricity it will demand. Such estimates are also needed so that the transition in the steel sector is aligned with developments in the energy and other industrial sectors.
The analysis evaluates two scenarios for green iron and steel production. The first scenario assumes no use of scrap in steel production, and the second assumes a 50% share of scrap. Both scenarios then also explore two routes for green steel production: one with an EU-based value chain for iron and renewable hydrogen, and another relying on iron sourced from outside the EU.
Key findings include the following:
- If all announced green iron and steel projects in the EU were to rely on renewable electricity by 2045 and did not use scrap, up to 135 terawatt hours of renewable energy would be needed annually.
- The estimates suggest that if no scrap is used, green hydrogen demand could reach 1.7 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) by 2030, increasing to 1.9 MTPA by 2045. This represents 19% of the EU’s target for domestic production of renewable hydrogen, and would cover one-third of today’s steel production.
- If EU companies were to import hot briquetted iron (HBI), thus outsourcing the most energy intensive part of hydrogen-based green steel production, the renewable energy requirements would be around one quarter of the energy needed for fully domestic green hydrogen and direct-reduced iron production without scrap.
- The significant differences in energy needs across scenarios suggest that transparent planning by the EU and steel producers is essential to meet renewable electricity demand across sectors and achieve decarbonization.
- Because many companies’ green steel production strategies depend on how the price of renewable energy and green hydrogen develops, more transparency would enable companies and policymakers to assess the feasibility of projects, to ensure realistic timelines, and to assess whether sufficient supply infrastructure will be in place to meet demand at competitive prices.
Ref: https://www.sei.org/publications/demands-renewable-hydrogen-electricity-iron-steel-transition/
Torres-Morales, E., Maltais, A. and Gong, J. (2024). Demands for Renewable Hydrogen and Electricity to Drive the EU’s Green Iron and Steel Transition. LeadIT Report. Leadership Group for Industry Transition Secretariat, Stockholm.
Uniper to Supply 6 TWh of Power for Swedish Green Hydrogen Plant
Uniper signed an agreement to deliver six TWh of electricity over six years for the electrolyzer unit of a steel production project by Stegra in northern Sweden.
Image by WangAnQi via iStock
Uniper SE has signed an agreement to deliver six terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity over six years for the electrolyzer unit of a steel production project by Stegra in northern Sweden.
The electrolyzer — an apparatus that extracts hydrogen from splitting the water molecule using electricity — will have a capacity of 700 megawatts (MW). The clean hydrogen it will produce will be used to reduce iron ore to green sponge iron that will feed the steel unit of the under-construction 270-hectare facility in the town of Boden. German gas and power utility Uniper will begin power delivery 2027.
The three-plant facility will produce 2.5 million tonnes a year of green steel in the initial stage, with operations planned to start 2026. By 2030, the capacity is expected to grow to five million tons per annum.
“We are proud to support the ongoing transition of the energy system by being a reliable and innovative partner to industrial off-takers”, Uniper Sweden chair Johan Svenningsson said in a joint statement by the companies.
Arne Österlind, head of Stegra’s energy portfolio, said, “The agreement with Uniper forms the base for a strategic partnership with a player which can provide us with long-term access to electricity for our plant in Boden, set to produce green hydrogen, green iron and green steel at scale”.
“This electricity delivery is central to our strategy and a key step towards accelerating reductions of industrial emissions in Europe”, Österlind added.
Earlier Stegra contracted Axpo Nordic for the delivery of 2.25 TWh of power over three years starting 2027.
“Both parties see this agreement as the beginning of a longer business relationship and an important element of the electricity supply to Stegra’s plant”, said a joint press release November 26.
According to Stegra, renamed from H2 Green Steel this year, using clean hydrogen instead of coal and electrifying the facility’s steelmaking process will result in a 95 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
Stockholm-based Stegra has secured several offtake agreements including with Porsche AG and IKEA’s biggest retailer, Ingka Group.
“Up to 35,000 tonnes of the low-emission steel produced in Sweden are to be used per year for the series production of Porsche vehicles”, said a joint statement October 31, 2023. “By way of comparison: in 2022, 220,000 tonnes of steel were used in Porsche vehicles”.
Meanwhile the green steel committed to Ingka will be used for IKEA warehouse racking. “The agreement forms part of Ingka Group’s ongoing action to reduce its climate footprint and will account for 50 percent of warehouse racking purchased globally”, Ingka said in a statement with Stegra September 13, 2023.
Swedish hydrogen locomotive plan
SWEDEN: During InnoTrans shunting and terminal services company Väte Rail signed an agreement to use a hydrogen shunting locomotive to be supplied by Polish manufacturer Pesa within two years. Väte Rail has a contract to provide shunting services for a steelmaker using vehicles provided by Hankavik. In June the two Swedish companies visited Poland to test Pesa’s prototype SM42-6Dn hydrogen fuel cell shunting locomotive.
They subsequently signed a letter of intent covering use of a loco in Sweden and co-operation to provide a hydrogen ecosystem including refuelling infrastructure.
It is to decarbonise our entire transport operations by 2030’, said Jan Forslund, President and owner of Väte Rail. ’Our vision is to be the greenest rail carrier in Sweden, and I believe that if you want to be green on the railways, you have to use hydrogen drives.’President of Hankavik Adrian Lindqvist said ’the shunting locomotives used in Scandinavia are worn-out old vehicles, and the ecological and quiet hydrogen locomotive seems ideal to replace them’. Pesa is currently developing a hydrogen locomotive which can also use electric power for trip freight serves. The prototype is expected to be ready at the end of 2026.
Hydrogen Powers Telia’s Mobile Sites During Outages by 100+ Days
Image Credit: Telia
Trials conducted at a Telia site along with the Swedish Post & Telecom Authority outside Stockholm, Sweden, demonstrated that integrating hydrogen, fuel cells, solar cells, and batteries can significantly extend a mobile site’s operating time when relying on backup power. Currently, mobile sites depend on batteries and diesel generators for secondary power.
This project marks the first time such a combination of energy sources has been tested for mobile site applications. Notably, the hydrogen used in this setup can be produced on-site using renewable energy and stored locally until needed. The Roslagen project, funded by the Swedish Post & Telecom Authority, is scheduled to conclude in December 2025. Key industry partners include Euromekanik, Powercell, Polarium, and Soltech. By 2040, Telia aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain.
Not Tesla, not Japan’s hydrogen: Sweden shatters global mobility with this revolutionary engine
by Edwin O. 10/07/2024 in Mobility
Credits: routeone
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The H2-ICE is being developed as a solution to long-haul transport to pave the way for sustainable mobility through Volvo Trucks. Unveiled at the ACT Expo in Las Vegas, the programme is to begin road trials of these new-generation vehicles by 2026, with commercialization towards the end of the decade.
This is a part of Volvo Group’s plan towards achieving net zero emissions, which is crucial with the increasing need for foreign solutions in heavy-duty trucks.
High-pressure direct injection technology explained
At the core of Volvo Group’s hydrogen-powered trucks is the high-pressure direct injection (HPDI). This is an enhanced standard rail system whereby a small quantity of regular diesel fuel is injected at high pressure to act as a pilot fuel. After this step, hydrogen is directly introduced into the engine. This innovative approach results in several advantages.
- Enhanced Power and Torque: The HPDI system can promise 30% more throughput power and torque than regular diesel motors, perfect for heavy-duty operations.
- Improved Thermal Efficiency: There could also be a 10% increase in thermal efficiency over conventional diesel engines, hence better fuel efficiency.
- Significant Emission Reductions: With the help of the H2-ICE system, CO2 emission can be cut down to 95%, and with the help of future improvement, it may touch 98%.
Volvo plans to use diesel ignition and hydrogen combustion to develop powerful breakthroughs to conventional fuel sources.
Market readiness for hydrogen technology solutions
Volvo’s hydrogen trucks are timely since there is increased pressure to improve the hydrogen infrastructure worldwide. Hydrogen fueling stations are another area where countries across the globe are spending considerably. For instance, those like the $900 million project in British Columbia envision constructing hydrogen-producing plants and stations for refuelling.
Moreover, in its H2 Gateway project, the company intends to develop 20 hydrogen fueling stations designed for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
All these advancements enable the realization of the market for hydrogen trucks and put into place the conduits needed for the shift realization transportation systems. Hydrogen combustion trucks from
Advantages of hydrogen trucks over other technologies
Volvo provide a variety of benefits compared to other types of AFV solutions. While hydrogen fuel cells have their benefits, H2-ICE technology presents unique economic and practical benefits:
- Cost-Effectiveness: The engines that run on hydrogen are cheaper and easier to manufacture and maintain than hydrogen fuel cells. This primarily benefits operators seeking cost-effective solutions within the heavy-duty truck segment.
- Flexibility: The benefit of spark ignition is the ability to calibrate the vehicle to use a small amount of ignition fuel to meet specific needs and flexibility in areas where charging stations remain scarce or situations that require rapid charging.
- Zero Emission Vehicle Classification: As these trucks can be dispatched on renewable fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), they can fall into the ‘Zero Emission Vehicles’ category under the new EU CO2 emission standards.
Strategic benefits for long-haul trucking operations
Volvo understands that all these technologies are critical for decarbonizing heavy transport. Hydrogen combustion engines will coexist with battery electric trucks and vehicles powered by renewable decarbonizing tactical diversification, which enables consumers to select the most appropriate substitute depending on transportation requirements and infrastructure.
During the presentation, Jan Hjelmgren, head of Product Management and Quality at Volvo Trucks, noted that these hydrogen trucks will have the same performance and durability as the modern diesel trucks and with the CO2 emissions reduction potential.
Upcoming milestones and environmental impact expectations
Moving to lab testing of hydrogen combustion engines, on-road testing planned for 2026 will be the next stepping stone towards proving the feasibility and efficiency of the developed technology. If successful, Volvo’ss hydrogen-driven trucks will be instrumental in achieving sustainable transport solutions.
Volvo has put its bet on hydrogen combustion technology as a measure that will help to decrease emissions in the segment of heavy-duty transportation. Thus, using HPDI technology and initiating cooperation with the development of infrastructure systems worldwide, Volvo has every chance to become a vehicle manufacturer that will help the world build a cleaner and more sustainable future for transport.
Ref: https://www.ecoticias.com/en/volvo-hydrogen-engine-tesla/7269/
Plagazi Secures €29.5 Million EU Grant to Advance Waste-to-Hydrogen Technolo
- Swedish company Plagazi has been awarded a €29.5 million grant from the EU Innovation Fund to enhance its technology that converts waste into green hydrogen.
- This substantial funding will support the expansion of Plagazi’s projects, aiming to scale up their innovative plasma gasification process for sustainable hydrogen production.
Plagazi, a Swedish green hydrogen technology firm, has been selected to receive a substantial €29.5 million (approximately USD 32.1 million) grant from the EU Innovation Fund. This grant is intended to advance the company’s cutting-edge project which focuses on transforming waste into circular hydrogen through a high-temperature plasma gasification process.
The process developed by Plagazi can convert various types of waste, including those that are not recyclable, into green hydrogen by exposing them to temperatures exceeding 3,000°C. The EU’s financial backing will enable Plagazi to scale its technology further, enhancing its capacity to support sustainable hydrogen production significantly.
Earlier this year, the European Investment Bank (EIB) partnered with Plagazi to support the Koping Hydrogen Park (KHP) project in Sweden. This project aims to produce 12,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually from 66,000 tonnes of unrecyclable waste and provide 10 MW of district heating to the local community. The KHP is poised to become one of the largest circular hydrogen production sites in Sweden and across Europe.
The grant is part of a broader EU initiative that saw 85 projects out of 337 applicants receive a combined €4.8 billion in funding under the 2023 call for proposals. Plagazi’s selection highlights its potential to contribute significantly to Europe’s net-zero emissions goals and the circular economy.
Gratitude and Aspirations
In a statement celebrating the grant, Plagazi expressed appreciation for the teamwork and strategic guidance that led to this achievement, particularly thanking Zaz Ventures for their support during the application process. The company is committed to leveraging this opportunity to drive further innovation and sustainable practices in the hydrogen sector.
Ref: https://fuelcellsworks.com/2024/11/04/green-investment/plagazi-secures-29-5-million-eu-grant-to-advance-waste-to-hydrogen-technology
Stegra Secures €100M Grant From Swedish Energy Agency to Advance Green Hydrogen Steel Production
Stegra granted state aid from the Industrial Leap and The Swedish Energy Agency
In 2018 the Parliament in Sweden introduced the Swedish climate law. It holds present and future governments responsible for enforcing policy that is based on the Swedish climate targets. It was also decided that state aid would be implemented as a measure to support the commercialization of innovation in the industry and with that the “Industrial Leap fund” was launched.
Today, the Swedish Energy Agency announced that Stegra has been granted about €100 million from the Industrial Leap for its establishment of a fully integrated near zero emission steel production facility in Boden. Earlier this year, the European Commission approved, under the EU State aid rules, a €265 million Swedish measure made available in part through the Recovery and Resilience Facility to support Stegra (previously H2GS AB) in setting up a large-scale green steel plant. In its decision the European Commissions pointed out that investments like Stegra are important for reaching EU’s climate targets Today’s decision by The Swedish Energy Agency, accounts for a part of the total budgeted amount.
The Swedish support programs are essential for the establishment of new large-scale industry in Sweden. The funds from the Industrial Leap now signal that there is national backing for one of Sweden’s largest industrial projects. It also contributes to some levelling of the playing field, in relation to steel companies in Europe that have received large support packages. This creates the prerequisites for us to build up a long term sustainable and competitive industry in Sweden.
Henrik HenrikssonCEO Stegra
Implementing change towards sustainable solutions in the steel industry has historically been slow and subsidies to the high-emitting incumbent players have been high. This is beginning to change with the revised Emission Trading System where the free allocation is gradually phased out, and the Carbon Boarder Adjustment Mechanism, which is phased in step by step. State aid can be used to help speed up change until those regulation changes are fully implemented, as well as to level the playing field between established players and new cleantech companies. For highest impact, state aid should be allocated to the most efficient projects.
Swedish industrial companies have the potential to become world leaders while contributing to the green transition of society as a whole. Initiatives within the Industrial Leap are of great importance for both the climate and the competitiveness of our industry.
Caroline AsserupInterim Director General at the Swedish Energy Agency
Stegra’s Boden plant is the industry initiative that avoids the most emissions per invested Swedish Krona. Our application entails on average 28 kg of CO2-avoidance per support-krona. No other Swedish project achieves as big positive climate impact per invested support-krona as Stegra.
All Stegra’s climate calculations are based CINEA’s methodology. CINEA is the European Climate, Environment and Infrastructure Executive Agency and the European Commission agency which manages decarbonization and sustainable growth. The calculations have been verified by an external expert (DNV) and all the input data has been validated by an independent auditor (PWC) via an ISRS4400 audit.