Evonik and VoltH2: Advancing Green Hydrogen Production in the Netherlands
Evonik and VoltH2 are collaborating to advance green hydrogen production in the Netherlands. This partnership involves Evonik constructing a 50 MW electrolyzer near its hydrogen peroxide plant at the Delfzijl chemical park. The project aims to supply a portion of Evonik’s hydrogen demand, with operations expected to start by the end of 2027. Additionally, VoltH2 will build a tube trailer filling station on Evonik’s premises, making hydrogen available to VoltH2’s other customers. This collaboration is part of Evonik’s sustainability agenda and aims to form the nucleus of a wider hydrogen network at the industrial hub.
Overview of the Partnership
Introduction to Evonik and VoltH2
Evonik and VoltH2 are two prominent companies leading the green hydrogen sector. Evonik, a global chemical company, is renowned for its innovative approaches to chemical production and sustainability. VoltH2 specializes in hydrogen production and distribution, focusing on green hydrogen technologies. Their collaboration represents a pivotal step in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, as highlighted by their joint project in the Netherlands.
Project Details
The project is located at the Delfzijl chemical park in the Netherlands, where a 50 MW electrolyzer is being constructed. This electrolyzer will be integrated near Evonik’s hydrogen peroxide plant, leveraging existing infrastructure to enhance efficiency. The timeline includes completing the electrolyzer by 2026, with operations expected to commence in 2027. The produced hydrogen will supply a portion of Evonik’s hydrogen demand. Additionally, VoltH2 will construct a tube trailer filling station on Evonik’s premises, expanding the hydrogen distribution network within the industrial hub.
Sustainability and Impact
Evonik’s sustainability agenda centers around reducing its carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy solutions. This project is crucial to Evonik’s strategy to form a wider hydrogen network at the industrial hub. By producing green hydrogen, the project contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. The collaboration with VoltH2 supports Evonik’s sustainability goals and accelerates the development of a robust hydrogen infrastructure, essential for decarbonizing industry and transportation sectors [Hydrogen Fuel News].
Project Objectives and Goals
Objectives
The primary objectives include supplying a portion of Evonik’s hydrogen demand, ensuring an uninterrupted hydrogen supply, and contributing to the Netherlands’ green hydrogen production goals.
Goals
Long-term goals include fully covering hydrogen demand with green hydrogen, expanding hydrogen availability to VoltH2’s other customers, and supporting the decarbonization of industry and transportation.
Key Stakeholders and Partners
Evonik Industries
Evonik Industries brings extensive expertise in specialty chemicals and innovative technologies. Their contributions include:
- Technological Innovation: Evonik’s advanced technologies in electrolysis and hydrogen production are crucial for the project’s success.
- Market Access: Evonik’s strong global presence helps market the green hydrogen produced by VoltH2 to a wide range of industrial customers.
- Sustainability Commitment: Evonik’s involvement aligns with their corporate responsibility to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy solutions.
Benefits for Evonik include:
- Market Expansion: The project offers Evonik the opportunity to expand its market presence in the green hydrogen sector.
- Innovation and Development: Collaborating with VoltH2 allows Evonik to stay at the forefront of hydrogen production technologies.
- Corporate Responsibility: The project reinforces Evonik’s commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.
VoltH2
VoltH2 brings unique strengths to the project, including:
- Electrolysis Technology: VoltH2’s proprietary electrolysis technology enables efficient green hydrogen production using renewable energy sources.
- Local Expertise: VoltH2 leverages local expertise and resources to support the project’s operations and ensure compliance with local regulations.
- Scalability: VoltH2’s technology is designed to be scalable, allowing for commercial-level hydrogen production.
Benefits for VoltH2 include:
- Market Validation: The project provides VoltH2 with a real-world test bed for its electrolysis technology.
- Partnership Opportunities: Collaborating with Evonik opens up new partnership opportunities for VoltH2.
- Sustainability Leadership: The project positions VoltH2 as a leader in sustainable hydrogen production.
Other Stakeholders
Several other key stakeholders are involved in the project, each playing a crucial role in its success:
- Local Authorities and Regulatory Bodies: Ensure the project complies with local regulations and supports sustainable development initiatives.
- Industrial Customers: End-users of the green hydrogen produced by the project.
- Other Partners: Collaborations with other companies and organizations enhance the project’s capabilities and resources.
Together, these stakeholders work in harmony to drive the project forward, ensuring its success and the realization of its goals.
Financial Aspects
Investment
The estimated cost of the Evonik and VoltH2 green hydrogen project is approximately €150 million. This includes the construction of the facility, the installation of electrolysis technology, and the integration of Evonik’s gas processing expertise. The project aims to produce high-purity hydrogen to supply a portion of Evonik’s hydrogen demand and support the Netherlands’ green hydrogen production goals.
Funding comes from Evonik, VoltH2, and the Dutch government. The Dutch government has announced plans to support the development of green hydrogen production facilities, including this one, with a total investment of €100 million. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both companies to sustainable energy solutions and the Dutch government’s efforts to promote green hydrogen production [Reuters].
Revenue and Profitability
Primary revenue streams are expected from the sale of high-purity hydrogen to Evonik and other customers. The facility is designed to produce hydrogen suitable for various industrial applications, including Evonik’s operations. The profitability of the project will be assessed based on production costs, revenue from hydrogen sales, and additional revenue streams from research and development collaborations.
Risk Management
Several potential risks and challenges have been identified. One key risk is the dependence on renewable energy sources for powering the electrolysis process. To mitigate this, the project includes a diverse energy supply strategy, incorporating both renewable and conventional energy sources. Additionally, the project will be designed with flexibility to adapt to changes in energy prices and market conditions. Another risk is the regulatory environment, which could impact the project’s operations and profitability. The project team will work closely with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance and seek necessary approvals. Overall, the project’s risk management strategy focuses on diversification, flexibility, and proactive engagement with stakeholders.
Technical Specifications
Electrolyzer Technology
VoltH2’s green hydrogen production facility features a 50 MW electrolyzer powered by renewable energy sources, ensuring green hydrogen production. The efficiency of the electrolyzer is optimized through Evonik’s advanced membrane technology, enhancing the overall performance and sustainability of the hydrogen production process. This collaboration leverages Evonik’s expertise in membrane technology to improve the efficiency of electrolyzers used in green hydrogen production [Chemical Engineering News].
Hydrogen Production Process
The hydrogen production process at VoltH2 begins with electrolysis, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using electrical energy. The 50 MW electrolyzer converts renewable energy into hydrogen, which then undergoes purification to remove impurities, ensuring a high-purity hydrogen product. Finally, the purified hydrogen is stored in specialized tanks, ready for distribution. This streamlined process ensures efficient and sustainable hydrogen production.
Infrastructure and Logistics
The VoltH2 facility includes a tube trailer filling station, allowing for convenient and efficient filling of hydrogen tanks for various applications. This infrastructure supports the distribution and delivery of hydrogen to end-users, including industrial customers and fueling stations. The logistics system ensures a reliable and uninterrupted supply of hydrogen, meeting the growing demand for green energy solutions.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Evonik and VoltH2 represents a significant step forward in the Netherlands’ goal of becoming a major hub for green hydrogen production in Europe. By leveraging electrolysis to produce green hydrogen from renewable energy sources, this project supports Evonik’s sustainability agenda and contributes to the decarbonization of industry and transportation. The success of this initiative paves the way for future collaborations and innovations in the green hydrogen sector, driving towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
Leave a Reply