Local Hydrogen Production: A Potential Solution for Grid Overload
Enschede, Monday, 23 September 2024.
Saxion University researchers have developed an innovative electrolysis system for decentralized hydrogen production. This technology aims to alleviate power grid congestion by using surplus renewable energy to generate and store hydrogen locally, offering a more stable sustainable energy supply.
Innovative Electrolysis System
The electrolysis system designed by Saxion University of Applied Sciences, in collaboration with various companies, partners, and students, utilizes wind and solar energy to produce hydrogen locally. This hydrogen is then stored and converted back into energy as needed, particularly during periods of low renewable energy generation, such as windless or cloudy days. This process helps to mitigate the inconsistencies associated with renewable energy sources and contributes to a more stable energy supply.
Decentralized Hydrogen Production
Benno Aalderink, an associate lecturer in Hydrogen Technology and Applications at Saxion University, emphasized the importance of decentralized hydrogen production in achieving climate goals. According to Aalderink, the HYGENESYS project’s small-scale electrolysis systems are crucial for converting water into hydrogen and oxygen, which can then be used to generate electricity when required. This decentralized approach not only alleviates the load on the power grid but also creates a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
Hydrogen Storage and Transport
A key feature of this new electrolysis system is its ability to store surplus renewable energy in the form of hydrogen. This stored hydrogen can be transported via existing pipeline infrastructure, allowing for the movement of large amounts of energy without adding stress to the power grid. This capability is particularly significant in regions with high renewable energy generation but limited grid capacity.
Supporting National and Global Energy Goals
The Netherlands has set an ambitious target to become CO2 neutral by 2050. Achieving this goal requires large-scale adoption of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. However, the intermittent nature of these sources necessitates efficient energy storage solutions. The innovative hydrogen production system developed by Saxion University addresses this need by providing a reliable method to store and utilize renewable energy, thereby supporting the country’s climate objectives.
Future Prospects and Applications
The researchers aim to implement the hydrogen production system at the H2Hub in Twente and explore its potential for decentralized industrial applications. Future plans also include testing residential applications of decentralized hydrogen production. This development could pave the way for widespread adoption of hydrogen technology, further contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.