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Hydrogen newsletter 4-18 March

Statements of companies and regulators with links of primary sources about real projects 

DNV embarks on hydrogen blending feasibility study to decarbonize gas system in British Columbia

DNV is executing hydrogen blending feasibility studies for Enbridge, Inc. (Enbridge) and FortisBC Energy Inc. (FortisBC), the company announced.The two individual studies will determine the percentage of hydrogen that can be safely transported through existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure, including Enbridge’s transmission system and FortisBC’s distribution system, both located in British Columbia, Canada. These studies, which are the largest blending studies undertaken in North America, will be used to develop the codes and standards required to safely transport hydrogen as the first step in forming a sustainable commercial hydrogen market.

The project is part of the Province of British Columbia’s work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by decarbonizing FortisBC’s and Enbridge’s natural gas systems while maintaining safety, reliability, and affordability. Individual studies will be undertaken for both sets of assets, recognizing the unique components and systems in place. Collectively, the studies will build a knowledge base to establish the safety, technical, and economic requirements needed to identify and introduce the best and safest hydrogen concentration levels for the system. The entire gas supply value chain will be examined, from hydrogen injection points to end-user delivery points on the pipeline systems.

Press release https://shorturl.at/gimGU

H2 Core Systems GmbH commissioned a new hydrogen  energy system recharging trains in Poland 

H2 Core Systems GmbH commissioned a new zero-emission energy system for SBB ENERGY S.A. in Poland that efficiently recharges trains and balances electricity on the grid at the same time.5 of  IE-POWER™ fuel cells sit at the heart of the system that brings together different components to make, store and compress hydrogen before using it to make electricity. 

“At SBB ENERGY S.A. in Opole, Poland, we’ve successfully implemented a cutting-edge energy solution for grid-balancing and train-recharging. Here’s a glimpse into the technology that powers this innovation:

Installed Components:

3 x HydroCab 4.0, 99.999% purity (5.0)

15 x EL, 3xDryer (37kW electrolysis capacity)

1 x Fuel Cell Cab

5 x FC with 4kW (20kW FC power)

35 bar buffer tank

4 pcs. 200 bar flexible high-pressure storage

1 x Compressor System (electromechanical)13 Nm³/h, 200bar

1 x Water Purification System + conductivity check

Press release https://shorturl.at/ctyK4

Black & Veatch Studies Extraction of Natural Hydrogen in Australia

Global engineering and construction leader will provide concept designs for H2EX’s natural hydrogen and helium project

Black & Veatch will study the exploration and extraction of natural hydrogen and helium in Australia, the company announced.

The development study is an engineering services agreement between Australian-owned natural hydrogen company H2EX Limited, a world leader in exploring naturally occurring hydrogen, and Black & Veatch. The study is part of an Australian Federal Government-funded project led by H2EX.

The Australian Government is investing more than $500 million (USD 332 million) to support the development of hydrogen hubs in regional Australia. The Regional Hydrogen Hubs programme is part of the government’s $40 billion (USD 26 billion) investment to transform the country into a powerhouse of green energy generation and innovation.

Press release https://shorturl.at/bsvw5

Accelera™ fuel cells power locomotive in Austrian project HY2RAIL

Accelera™ by Cummins, the zero-emissions business segment of Cummins Inc., has reached a significant milestone by successfully commissioning its first fuel cell-powered locomotive for freight rail applications, the company announced. Replacing typical diesel generators, Accelera fuel cells now serve as the primary power unit in the conversion project of a light On Track Machine (OTM) Vehicle in Austria developed for the HY2RAIL project.

In partnership with the Austrian railway authority ÖBB, recognized for managing one of Europe’s most advanced railway systems, the HY2RAIL project demonstrates how fuel cells can sustainably meet the power needs of heavy-duty freight locomotives.

To power the locomotive, m.ZERO, an Austrian engineering consultancy, integrated Accelera fuel cell power modules into a strong 120kW system. This customized system meets strict rail vehicle standards, including the European standard EN 61373, which outlines testing requirements for railway applications, focusing on shock and vibration.

Press release https://shorturl.at/lvBQW

HyStorage first test phase successful – hydrogen extracted again after injection into porous rock

The first operating phase of HyStorage with a 5% hydrogen blend was successfully completed end of January 2024, the Uniper announced. The partner companies presented the first interim results of the research project, which examines the integrity of porous rock formations for the storage of hydrogen, in the presence of Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy Hubert Aiwanger to representatives from politics and industry at the designated well site close to Uniper’s Bierwang storage facility yesterday.

The close cooperation and expertise of the five experienced European project partners Uniper, OGE, RAG Austria, SEFE Securing Energy for Europe and NAFTA including the scientific support of the test ensured that the collected data of the first phase was deeply analyzed and evaluated.


During the 7-day withdrawal phase almost 90% of the previously injected hydrogen was recovered. Analysis showed that the reservoir performance remained the same and a very homogeneous hydrogen distribution within the reservoir can be indicated. The material testing has been successfully conducted during the test in the subsurface and next to the well in a special pressure vessel. All preliminary results of the tested materials showed no influence of hydrogen corrosion.

Press release https://shorturl.at/tDEZ2

Hexagon Purus to deliver three 20ft MEGCs for hydrogen to Norwegian Hydrogen

“Here are three 20ft MEGCs (multiple element gas container) that will soon be delivered to Norwegian Hydrogen, the Hexagon Purus announced in its LinkedIn.

“Almost 1.5 tons of hydrogen, compressed to 380 bar, will be distributed in these units from the Hellesylt Hydrogen HUB (HHH) in Norway to many innovative clients that will use green hydrogen instead of fossil fuels”.

Previously, the company reported that it has expanded its primary manufacturing facility in Weeze, Germany for engineering and production of hydrogen infrastructure products including systems for distribution, refueling and stationary storage.

Hexagon Purus is ramping up its capacity to meet growing customer demand for hydrogen infrastructure solutions as the world transitions to clean energy sources. The existing 11,000m2 state of the art facility in Weeze is now expanded to 16,000m2. The capacity expansion approximately doubles Hexagon Purus’ annual production capacity of type 4 high-pressure hydrogen infrastructure solutions.

Press release https://shorturl.at/BFGLQ

Solaris will deliver 22 hydrogen buses to France

«Our hydrogen buses will be a part of hydrogen pilot project by Ile-De-France Mobilités., the Solaris announced.  “We will deliver to France a total of 22 Urbino 12 hydrogen buses by 2025”.

With the support of La Centrale d’Achat du Transport Public (CATP), Île-de-France Mobilités has launched a tender for the purchase and maintenance of 22 hydrogen buses. The aim was to evaluate the potential of hydrogen technology for the region’s public transport system. This trial is part of the initiatives and investments undertaken since 2018 to renew the entire bus fleet in Île-de-France as part of the most ambitious and fastest renewal programme in Europe.

This new contract confirms the company’s leadership in the European market for hydrogen and zero-emission vehicles. Only in 2023, 44.5% of all hydrogen buses registered in Europe were Solaris vehicles.

Press release https://shorturl.at/CGTX2

Unimot Group: HVO fuel produced with hydrogen available for sale in March

From March 2024, Unimot Paliwa, a company within the Unimot Group, is expanding its fuel offer to include 100% HVO diesel. Its emissions allow for up to 94% CO2 reduction compared to traditional B0 diesel, the group announced.

HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a type of synthetic, renewable alternative fuel intended for diesel engines. It is obtained in modern refining processes – through hydrocracking or hydrogenation of vegetable oil or animal fats using hydrogen and catalysts under high temperature and pressure conditions.

Press release https://shorturl.at/gCK23

Salzgitter Group to buy 71 GWh/a of green electricity for green steel and hydrogen production

The Salzgitter Group is engaged in close cooperation with customers and partners to achieve its climate aims and objectives, and is now partnering with Energiesysteme Groß GmbH & Co. KG and Agrarbetrieb Gut Merbitz GbR on their PV project in Wettin-Löbejün. Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH and IG Merbitz Solar GmbH, the project company for the PV power plant in Merbitz, have now concluded a green electricity supply agreement (PPA). The electricity will be generated by a ground-mounted photovoltaic system currently under construction at the Merbitz site in Saxony-Anhalt. “The electricity supply agreement now concluded between our two companies underlines the importance of renewable energies for the energy transition in Germany and for the Salzgitter site – where virtually CO2-free steel will be produced from 2026 onwards”, as Ralph Schaper, Head of Energy Management, Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH stated.
 
In concluding this Power Purchase Agreement, Salzgitter Flachstahl has secured the supply of around 71 GWh/a of green electricity from Merbitz at a fixed price for 10 years as from January 2025, in addition to the option to temporarily store this electricity on site.
 
Press release https://shorturl.at/krxOT

McPhy awarded a new firm contract in the industrial field for the supply of a McLyzer 800 to AAK in Sweden

McPhy Energy, specialized in low-carbon hydrogen production and distribution equipment (electrolyzers and refueling stations), announced that it has been awarded a firm contract to supply a McLyzer 800-30 electrolyzer with a 4 MW capacity and related spare parts to the Swedish company AAK, a major global player in the food oil processing industry.

The McLyzer 800-30 electrolyzer will enable AAK to renew its equipment on its manufacturing plant in Sweden and to use the low-carbon hydrogen produced as a process gas. AAK will thus benefit from uninterrupted hydrogen supply, while reducing its CO2 emissions. AAK has been operating with electrolyzers for more than 60 years and is now selecting McPhy for both its experience and project execution capacity.

The commissioning of the equipment supplied by McPhy is expected for the second quarter of 2025. With this contract, McPhy has recorded a new reference in the industrial field and is pursuing its scale-up.

Press release https://shorturl.at/exCJK

GTL Announces Pioneering Validation of LH2 Composite Dewar-Tanks for Aviation Applications

Gloyer-Taylor Laboratories, Inc. (GTL), an aerospace engineering research and development company,  showcased its industry leading hydrogen storage technology during Vertical Flight Society’s (VFS) 3rd Annual H2-Aero Symposium at SAE Aerotek in Charlotte, NC on March 13, 2024.

The GTL composite LH2 dewar-tank test results surpassed expectations. When fully isolated, GTL’s dewar-tank held hard vacuum at 2.8.e-6 torr for ~50 minutes with LH2, which was > 100x better than the requirement. This allowed the GTL dewar-tank to hold LH2 for over 21 hours, at -430 degrees Fahrenheit, while remaining leak tight with minimal hydrogen permeation. During this test, the subscale dewar-tank experienced only 2.8 watts of heat load. Based on this, GTL expects that the flight tanks will see only 1% LH2 boiloff per day.

Results showed the composite dewar-tank’s ability for rapid chill-down, paving the way for aircraft to be refueled in minutes, versus waiting hours for a metal tank and transfer lines to cool. The inner composite tank went from ambient room temperature to 20K (degrees Kelvin) and holding liquid hydrogen in less than 20 seconds and the GTL composite tubes achieved full LH2 flow in less than 1 second. The tests also show that no-vent fills of the composite dewar-tanks are achievable, which greatly improves refueling safety.

Press release https://shorturl.at/vIN24

DOE Announces $750 M to Support America’s Growing Hydrogen Industry

As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda(link is external), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)  announced $750 million for 52 projects across 24 states to dramatically reduce the cost of clean hydrogen and reinforce America’s global leadership in the growing clean hydrogen industry. These projects—funded by the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—will help advance electrolysis technologies and improve manufacturing and recycling capabilities for clean hydrogen systems and components, directly supporting more than 1,500 new jobs.

 The projects are expected to enable U.S. manufacturing capacity to produce 14 gigawatts of fuel cells per year, enough to power 15% of medium- and heavy-duty trucks sold each year, and 10 gigawatts of electrolyzers per year, enough to produce an additional 1.3 million tons of clean hydrogen per year.

Learn more about the projects selected for award negotiations 

here

Press release https://shorturl.at/knvL7

Nel receives $75 M in support for electrolyser production facility in Michigan

The US Department of Energy (DOE) and the state of Michigan have awarded a collective USD 75 million in cash incentives and grants for Nel’s next electrolyser production facility in Michigan, the Nel announced.

“The support from the Department of Energy and the state of Michigan is crucial for realizing our factory, which will create new green industrial jobs and be a significant contribution to the energy transition,” says Nel’s President and CEO, Håkon Volldal.

“It is encouraging to see the Department of Energy taking these strategic steps to stimulate a clean energy economy, and we appreciate their long-time support to take our products from R&D to commercial products,” he says.

Fully built out, the Michigan site is expected to have an annual nameplate production capacity of 4 GW. In the planned new facility, Nel will manufacture its next-generation electrolyser technologies: the PEM stacks currently being developed together with General Motors, and pressurized alkaline stacks.

A final investment decision has not yet been made and depends on market demand for electrolysers.

Press release https://shorturl.at/huS58

MHI establishes the GX Solutions business unit by integrating the hydrogen, ammonia and CO2 value chains

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. on April 1will establish “GX (Green Transformation) Solutions” as a new business domain to promote the energy transition business that MHI Group is pursuing as a growth strategy. By reorganizing the energy transition-related business, which currently spans multiple business divisions, and establishing a structure with enhanced project management and engineering functions, MHI Group will be able to provide one-stop solution for customer needs, and effectively utilize shared resources to enhance responsiveness.

In its 2021 Medium-Term Business Plan announced in October 2020, MHI Group designated “Energy Transition” and “Smart Infrastructure” as dual engines for growth and is currently pursuing energy transition measures with the aim of significantly increasing its corporate value by 2030. 

Press release https://shorturl.at/qRX08

Bobcat showcases hydrogen fuel cell-powered forklift prototypes within the booth

From electric and internal combustion machines to new hydrogen prototypes, Bobcat Company is showcasing the future of its material handling solutions at MODEX 2024, the company announced.

Hydrogen fuel cell forklifts offer longer operating times and faster refueling, making them ideal for applications that require extended use and quick refueling turnaround. 

For warehouses operating multiple shifts, the hydrogen fuel cell forklift is a viable option to reduce carbon footprint while still meeting the operational needs to run longer hours with no charging required.  

Prototypes on display at MODEX include:   

* B35X-7 Hydrogen Pneumatic Forklift Prototype  

    * This hydrogen forklift prototype would function similarly to the currently commercialized B35X-7 electric pneumatic forklift but powered by hydrogen rather than an electric battery.  

    * 7,000-pound capacity  

* BER30S-9 Hydrogen Rider Pallet Jacks Forklift Prototype  

    * This hydrogen prototype would function similarly to the currently commercialized BER30-9 electric rider pallet jacks but powered by hydrogen rather than an electric battery.   

    * 6,000-pound capacity    

Press release https://rb.gy/pvu5po

ClassNK evaluated  the new carrier “GAS INNOVATOR” as ammonia-fuel-ready ship

Under Zero-Emission Accelerating Ship Finance , which is jointly operated by Development Bank of Japan Inc. (DBJ) and ClassNK, ClassNK evaluated the ammonia carrier “GAS INNOVATOR” (IMO No. 9958688), which was designed and built based on the basic certification for ammonia-fuel-ready ships and is owned by IINO Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. (IINO Lines). DBJ provided financing to IINO Lines.

In the shipping industry, where environmental regulations are becoming stricter as the industry moves towards decarbonization, ClassNK evaluates ships based on a comprehensive scoring model jointly developed with DBJ from the perspective of “decarbonization, environmentally friendly performance, and innovativeness,” and DBJ provides investment and financing. The project supports initiatives that contribute to the transition to decarbonization from both IR and financial perspectives.

Press release 

https://www.classnk.or.jp/hp/en/hp_news.aspx?id=11063&type=press_release&layout=1

eCap Marine tested H2PowerPac on board the offshore supply vessel

“We have reached a huge milestone in the comissioning of our very first H2PowerPac on board the offshore supply vessel Coastal Liberty”, the company reported in its LinkedIn.

“Together with Wintershall DeaActa Marine and DNV, we successfully traveled emissionfree in the Wadden Sea during our seatrials. 400 kW of fuel cell power by Ballard Power Systems and 280 kWh of battery power by Lehmann Marine GmbH are built into this compact 20-ft.-container. This container is fueled by a 380 bar hydrogen storage tank on the aft of the ship”.

Press release 

https://shorturl.at/ijN15

MHI Selected as Licensor of CO2 Capture Technology for Hydrogen Production Project in UK

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has concluded a license agreement with Kellogg Brown & Root, Ltd. (KBR, Ltd.), an operating company of the first-tier American engineering firm KBR, Inc., to provide CO2 capture technology for a low carbon hydrogen production plant being established in Cheshire in northwest England. The project, Hydrogen Production Plant 2 (HPP2), will be constructed at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex, which hosts one of the UK’s leading refineries.

Under the agreement, MHI will license its “Advanced KM CDR Process™”, CO2 capture technology developed in collaboration with the Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc., and also provide the process design package (PDP) for the new post combustion CO2 capture plant. HPP2 will have an annual hydrogen production capacity of nearly 230,000 tons, which is expected to be the UK’s largest-scale low carbon hydrogen plants when it begins operation.

Press release https://shorturl.at/tEV78

Constellium SE announced its move towards industrial testing of hydrogen utilization in its casthouses

Recycling and casting are the most energy intensive operations and represent close to 50% of Constellium’s direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the company stated.

Building upon successful laboratory-scale trials conducted in 2022 by C-TEC, Constellium’s main R&D center, the Company was able to demonstrate that transitioning from natural gas to hydrogen has no adverse effects on energy efficiency, oxidation rate, or product quality, with a focus on ensuring safe operations. This first demonstration phase has paved the way for industrial-scale testing at C-TEC.In preparation of the industrial testing phase, C-TEC has equipped one of its furnaces with a highly efficient burner capable of operating with oxygen and both natural gas and/or hydrogen. First results are expected Q3 2024.

Press release https://shorturl.at/gjouF

Lycée Maritime Bastia presents progress in the construction of a hydrogen-powered training vessel

The hydrogen generator-powered  vessel, named ALBA, is being built for France’s Lycée Maritime Bastia. Julien Cometto, deputy headmaster at Lycée Maritime de Bastia reported on his LinkedIn:

“The REXH2s (EODev’s hydrogen generators) are already in their compartments and very soon the tanks will be integrated on board.A schedule that was well managed by the consortium, and another step towards the launch of the Lycée Maritime Bastia’s zero-emission training vessel.

Construction monitoring, progress meeting on 7 March :

– installation of ramps

– installation of deck equipment: cranes, winches, line and net winches, bollards, etc.

– wiring and electrical panels

– fitting the gunwales in the wheelhouse

– equipment integration, etc.

Construction of the MAURIC, CHANTIER NAVAL GATTO, EODev, Alternatives Energies.

Funding France Relance, DG AMPA Secrétariat d’État chargé de la Mer et de la Biodiversité.

Supported by Cullettività di Corsica – Collectivité de Corse.

Project accredited by Pôle Mer Méditerranée.”

Source https://shorturl.at/iH039

Chariot Completed Feasibility Study of Green Hydrogen Project in Mauritania

Chariot, the Africa focused transitional energy group, announced the completion of the Feasibility Study for the large-scale green hydrogen project “Project Nour” in Mauritania which has now been presented to the Government of Mauritania. Project Nour is equally owned through a 50%/50% partnership between Chariot’s fully owned subsidiary Chariot Green Hydrogen and TE H2, a company co-owned by TotalEnergies and EREN Group, and is being developed with the support of Mauritania’s Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines.

Further definition of the scale and viability of the project, building on the Pre-Feasibility Study completed in 2022 which confirmed that with up to 10 GW of electrolysis installed, Project Nour could become one of the largest green hydrogen projects globally. Intention to execute a phased development with a first phase renewable capacity of 3 GW, powering up to 1.6 GW of electrolysis capacity, to produce 150 kt of green hydrogen per annum

Press release https://shorturl.at/qBQS4

Hyzon Launches Global 200kW Fuel Cell System in Prime Mover

Hyzon Motors Inc. and privately held New Way Trucks  announced a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to develop a fuel cell powered refuse vehicle for the North American market.

The vehicle – Hyzon’s 200kW Prime Mover, the Australian term for a heavy-duty commercial truck designed to tow a semi-trailer – was officially unveiled at the Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) in Melbourne, one of the largest educational providers of automotive training and accreditation in Australia. 

Sporting the company’s bright refreshed branding, the 200kW Prime Mover reflects Hyzon’s commitment to technological advancements and is designed to meet the operational demands of heavy-duty road transport. Hyzon integrated its innovative fuel cell technology and 200kW FCEV powertrain first into a cabover vehicle, a familiar design for fleets in Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. The company expects to deploy 200kW cabovers in Europe and 200kW conventional vehicles in the U.S. later this year.

Press release https://shorturl.at/AYZ09

Air Liquide and Vopak to collaborate on infrastructure for ammonia import and hydrogen distribution infrastructure in Singapore


Air Liquide and Vopak have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the development and operation of infrastructure for ammonia import, cracking and hydrogen distribution in Singapore. 

Ammonia is considered as one of the low-carbon fuels for power generation and the maritime industry. As a hydrogen carrier, it is one of the most efficient ways to store and transport hydrogen. Leveraging on an established global supply chain and infrastructure for ammonia production, transportation and utilization, once transported, ammonia can be converted into hydrogen to contribute to the decarbonisation of industry and mobility. 

Press release https://shorturl.at/uDJRS
  

Worley wins service contract for Shell’s Holland Hydrogen 1 project

“We’ve been awarded a renewable hydrogen project services contract by Shell supporting the delivery of Europe’s largest renewable hydrogen project located in the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands”, the Worley announced.

The contracts continue the close collaboration between Shell and Worley since late 2020, when we provided early engineering services for this project.

“Under these contracts, we’ll provide detailed design and procurement, and construction management support services including the critical integration needed with key vendors and other assets such as offshore windpipelineselectrical grids and the refinery”, company stated.

The 200MW electrolyzer will be powered by renewable energy from an offshore wind farm that is currently under development. Once complete, HH1 will be the largest commercial renewable hydrogen production facilities in Europe. It will produce around 60,000 kg of hydrogen per day, enough to keep 2,300 hydrogen trucks

Press release https://shorturl.at/txBI6

Wiener Linien to convert line 39A to hydrogen buses in 2025

The result of the Europe-wide tender has been finalised: ten H2 city buses from CaetanoBus with Toyota technology will be on the road in Vienna by the end of 2025, the Wiener Linien announced.

Wiener Linien is working flat out to decarbonise its bus fleet. Last week, they opened the new competence centre for electromobility and completely converted the first two lines to large e-buses, and now the result of the Europe-wide H2 bus tender has been announced. Together with Toyota, the Portuguese manufacturer CaetanoBus emerged as the best bidder in the multi-stage process. Wiener Linien will receive ten “H2.City Gold” buses in the course of 2025, which will be powered by Toyota fuel cell technology. The twelve-metre-long, barrier-free buses will be refuelled at the hydrogen filling station operated by Wien Energie and Wiener Netzen at the Leopoldau bus garage. The public transport company is thus utilising the H2 infrastructure of the Wiener Stadtwerke Group, which was built with foresight.

Press release https://shorturl.at/fhDEP

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