Siemens Energy has secured a significant contract to provide a 280-MW electrolysis system to the German utility, EWE.
The facility, located in the city of Emden, is scheduled to commence operations in 2027, producing up to 26,000 tons of green hydrogen annually for various industrial uses in the region.
This green hydrogen could replace fossil fuels, potentially reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 800,000 tons per year, especially in the steel industry.
Part of a Larger Initiative
The electrolysis facility is a crucial component of EWE’s expansive hydrogen initiative, known as ‘Clean Hydrogen Coastline’, which includes four sub-projects.
The electrolyser is the centerpiece of the hydrogen production plant in Emden, which, along with other essential elements like compressors and cooling systems, will have an average power consumption of 320 MW throughout its operational life.
Siemens Energy and EWE have also agreed to a 10-year service contract for the electrolysis system.
Strategic Funding and Government Support
The German government and the European Commission have designated this project as a strategic funding measure under the IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest).
The funding decision was recently presented to EWE at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection. With the contract now signed, both EWE and Siemens Energy are moving forward with the project’s implementation.
Industry Readiness and Government Commitment
Anne-Laure de Chammard, a member of the Executive Board of Siemens Energy, emphasized the project’s significance in advancing the green hydrogen industry in Germany.
She noted that the long-awaited funding commitments from the German government have provided the final piece needed to realize such strategically important projects on a large scale.
The swift conclusion of the contract with EWE highlights the industry’s readiness to implement these initiatives quickly.
EWE’s Comprehensive Hydrogen Strategy
EWE is engaged in all aspects of the hydrogen value chain, from production to transportation and storage.
CEO Stefan Dohler commented on the choice of location in northwest Germany and the partnership with Siemens Energy, highlighting their focus on both regional and national value creation.
Over the course of a 12-month selection process, EWE evaluated 10 electrolysis manufacturers globally. Dohler expressed his satisfaction in collaborating with Siemens Energy on hydrogen projects, given their long-standing partnership in energy infrastructure.
Advanced PEM Technology
The Siemens Energy electrolyser utilizes PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) technology, which employs electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
This technology is particularly well-suited for use with renewable energy sources due to its highly flexible ramp-up times. The core components, or stacks, of the electrolysers are produced at Siemens Energy’s new gigawatt factory in Berlin.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Siemens Energy and EWE marks a significant step in the development of the green hydrogen industry in Germany.
With strategic funding and government support, this project is set to contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions and advancing renewable energy technologies. The use of PEM technology and the comprehensive service contract underscore the innovative and forward-thinking approach of both companies.