Nel ASA (NLLSF)

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TOTAL TO INSTALL SUNFIRE HYDROGEN TECHNOLOGY AT GERMAN REFINERY

October 3, 2019

Sunfire GmbH (Dresden, Germany; www.sunfire.de) has signed a cooperation agreement with the French major energy company Total S.A. (Paris, France; www.total.com). Sunfire will provide a megawatt-scale high temperature electrolyzer for use in industrial environments as part of the E-CO2MET research and development project. The company will also be responsible for the integration at the site as well as the operation and maintenance of the electrolyzer, which will be the first step for the industrial-scale production of synthetic methanol from renewables and industrial concentrated CO2 from the Total Raffinerie Mitteldeutschland GmbH in Leuna, Germany.

Total has chosen to install the Sunfire-HyLink 200 system. The production of green methanol and hydrogen from renewable energies offers great opportunities for the global energy and transport transition. “Total is delighted to develop efficient technologies to re-use CO2 to chemicals, materials and fuels. Carbon capture, utilization and storage is going to play an essential role in achieving carbon neutrality without curbing economic and social growth,” said Marie-Noelle Semeria, Senior Vice President, Group Chief Technology Officer at Total.

The advantage of the high-temperature electrolyzer is its ability to directly use economically produced steam or waste heat from industrial and synthesis processes. With this method, the use of valuable green electricity can be reduced. It is the most efficient process on the market for converting electricity into hydrogen. The high efficiency of over 80 % also significantly reduces the overall cost of the integrated process.

The cooperation heralds a new era for the industrial use of renewable hydrogen and methanol in refineries.

“The use of a high-temperature electrolyzer at one of the largest oil companies in the world confirms our years of hard work driving decarbonization in large-scale industries. This technology can become the core building block for energy sectors that cannot source electricity directly from renewables. With the transformation into renewable gases and fuels and the use of existing infrastructures, we can make the transport sector and the chemical industry climate-neutral,” said Nils Aldag, Managing Director, Sunfire

During the collaboration with Total, Sunfire’s electrolyzer will be involved in various research and development projects. Various operative studies will be carried out at its location in Leuna to evaluate the performance of the system, as well as in relation to volatile renewable energy supply. The evaluation of the results will be undertaken by Total according to quality and qualification guidelines for new technologies. Total Carbon Neutrality Ventures, the venture capital arm of Total SA, has been a minority equity shareholder in Sunfire since 2014.

https://www.chemengonline.com/total-to-install-sunfire-hydrogen-technology-at-german-refinery/

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Asia’s hydrogen push

4 Oct 19

Let’s start by making one thing very clear: if China has become the global leader in the implementation of electric vehicles, it’s not so much because the country is eco-conscious. China, but also the other giants in the region (India, Japan, South Korea) are poor in natural resources and therefore depend on other countries for energy supply. A costly affaire, for sure, but there’s a political aspect to this: leverage. Asia wants to become energy-independent and that just doesn’t work with oil.

Positioning of hydrogen
Obviously, hydrogen is clean, as its only byproducts are water and heat, but it’s also expensive. In a normal, unsubsidized economy, hydrogen doesn’t stand a chance compared to electric or fossil fuel. Its potential success requires massive investments from industry and government. For this reason, Asia’s strategy is not to replace electric with hydrogen, but make the two complimentary.

The first objective is to increase hydrogen uptake in its most efficient manner. By focusing on heavy transport and buses rather than on cars, sales volumes will increase without having to create a consumer infrastructure. The consumer drives smaller vehicles that need to refuel often, which means that hydrogen stations would need to be widely available; buses and trucks however have larger fuel tanks and are used differently, allowing for less stations to be built, but volumes to be high.

If volumes can increase without excessive subsidies, economies of scale will eventually make subsidies unnecessary.

Asian hydro-champions
It’s remarkable how absent Toyota is from the full electric vehicle market and continues to push hybrid. This reflects the OEM’s belief that hydrogen, and not electric, is tomorrow’s powertrain. The Japanese giant has launched its Mirai in 2014, more as a test case rather than aiming for a commercial success. The number of sales has been extremely low at less than 10,000 globally over 5 years.

Hyundai is offering the Nexo crossover whilst Honda is proposing its Clarity Fuel Cell on lease only. Chinese manufacturers are now benefiting from state subsidies to build vehicles and infrastructure – this being China’s phase 2, after the push for electric. The manufacturing and sales of fuel cell components to truck and bus makers has taken off as well, especially by Hyundai and Toyota.

Objectives
China wants to see over a million FCVs on the road by 2030, Japan is aiming for 800,000 and Korea for an ambitious 850,000 – also by 2030.

https://www.globalfleet.com/en/technology-and-innovation/asia-pacific/features/asias-hydrogen-push?a=YHE11&t%5B0%5D=China&t%5B1%5D=Japan&t%5B2%5D=South%20Korea&t%5B3%5D=Hydrogen&t%5B4%5D=Toyota&t%5B5%5D=Hyundai&curl=1

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Hydrogen Mobility Australia relaunches as Australian Hydrogen Council

Oct 04, 2019

Hydrogen Mobility Australia has relaunched today as the Australian Hydrogen Council to reflect the diversity of its growing membership.

Formed in 2017 to accelerate the Australian hydrogen economy by founding members Toyota and Hyundai, the association has grown to 34 members from the energy, transport, consulting and technology sectors.

Dr. Fiona Simon, CEO of Australian Hydrogen Council, said the name change represents an exciting milestone for the organisation as momentum for hydrogen builds across both mobility and energy applications.

“There are many hydrogen initiatives already underway across the nation, with research and investment expected to continue following the release of the Australian Government’s National Hydrogen Strategy, which will provide a clear framework for the future,” Simon said.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our members, government and stakeholders to build a future hydrogen society built upon clean and renewable energy technologies.”

The Australian Hydrogen Council has an exciting agenda for 2020, including its inaugural Australian Hydrogen Conference to be held in Melbourne on 30th to 31st March 2020.

“The conference will feature a fantastic line-up of speakers, providing an engaging platform to discuss the latest developments and initiatives across the emerging hydrogen sector,” Simon highlighted.

https://www.h2-view.com/story/hydrogen-mobility-australia-relaunches-as-australian-hydrogen-council/

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Twitter: Today: Pareto Securities' Renewable Energy & Clean Tech Conference 2019 in Stockholm. Now: ?@nelhydrogen? presenting.

Today: Pareto Securities' Renewable Energy & Clean Tech Conference 2019 in Stockholm. Now: ⁦@nelhydrogen⁩ presenting. pic.twitter.com/sadt74ttQI

— Pareto Securities AS (@ParetoSecNO) October 3, 2019

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Twitter: Happy to be in Stockholm for this conference, 4.3% of @nelhydrogen is currently held by Swedish shareholders and growing!

Happy to be in Stockholm for this conference, 4.3% of @nelhydrogen is currently held by Swedish shareholders and growing! https://t.co/7lh4kDksrC

— Bjørn Simonsen (@bjornsimonsen) October 3, 2019

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Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles could be a feature on Irish roads by 2023

about 16 hours ago

Hydrogen-fuelled cars, buses and trucks can be a reality in Ireland by 2023, and there is the potential for more than 35,000 hydrogen vehicles to be on roads within a decade, a strategic review has found.

These are among the findings of a report into hydrogen’s potential in helping to address Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions arising from transport. With State supports it would remove some 300,000 tonnes of CO2 every year, it concludes.

The research by Element Energy was commissioned by a cross-industry group – Hydrogen Mobility Ireland – which includes major transport, energy and utility companies. It provides the Government with a potential road map up to 2030, including roll-out of infrastructure on an all-Ireland basis.

Transport accounts for about 20 per cent of Ireland’s greenhouse gases, and is the largest source of energy-related emissions.

Hydrogen is a low-carbon fuel and will be produced locally in Ireland. Fuel cell vehicles consume hydrogen as a fuel to produce electrical power for the vehicle, with water vapour the only by-product. The ability of electrolyser technology to also convert excess electricity generated by wind or solar farms not taken on to the grid is set to be a new green source of hydrogen.

Greater range
Fuel cell vehicles complement battery electric vehicles as they offer greater range and faster refuelling (less than three minutes), and are particularly suitable for heavy passenger and goods vehicles. Hydrogen vehicles, the report finds, will be cost-competitive with conventional fuel vehicles by 2025; buses, vans and taxis could be deployed as the catalyst for market establishment, followed by HGVs and trains.

Recommendations include:
– The Government apply similar incentives to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as battery EVs;
– Locating clusters of refuelling stations to give early adopters confidence; initially near the M50 and in Dublin city centre.
– A first deployment involving two hydrogen production sources and three refuelling stations can be completed for €34 million, with €14 million of State funding;
– A total investment of €350 million by 2030, which is less than battery electric vehicle subsidies over the past decade.


By 2030 a network of 76 stations would ensure 50 per cent of the population of the island would live in a town with a hydrogen refuelling station as well as providing adequate coverage of major roads. A network of 27 electrolysers beside renewable generators (mostly wind farms) would supply the fuel.

Speaking at its launch in Dublin, Minister for the Environment Richard Bruton said the research was “a valuable insight into a potential pathway for the introduction of hydrogen vehicles in Ireland between now and 2030”. He noted Ireland’s ability to produce hydrogen and the fuel’s suitability for HGVs in particular.

Big role
Mark Teevan, chairman of Hydrogen Mobility Ireland and corporate affairs director at Toyota Ireland, said: “We see hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as having a very big role to play in a full decarbonisation of transport. The challenge is to get started, since not only is a new infrastructure needed but also the production of a new fuel.”

Some Hydrogen Mobility Ireland members are already planning on initiating hydrogen production in Ireland, including Indaver at its waste-to-energy plant in Co Meath. Its chairman, John Ahern, said: “Installing an electrolyser to produce hydrogen will allow us to make use of the energy that would otherwise be wasted at times when we are asked to power down by the grid operator. This typically happens on windy days when there is more supply than demand for electricity.”

Dr James Carton of DCU and Hydrogen Mobility Ireland underlined hydrogen’s broader potential: “We see hydrogen playing a role in achieving Ireland’s climate targets in transport, heating, energy and storage. Our aim is to connect hydrogen with all sectors of energy and society, creating a new clean, zero-emission economy.”

https://www.irishtimes.com/business/energy-and-resources/hydrogen-fuel-cell-vehicles-could-be-a-feature-on-irish-roads-by-2023-1.4039351

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Hyundai partners with Cummins for hydrogen fuel cell technology
This will help the companies to jointly develop and commercialize electric and fuel cell powertrains combining Hyundai fuel cell systems and Cummins’ electric powertrain, battery and control technologies.

October 03, 2019,

New Delhi: South Korean carmaker Hyundai Motor Company on Wednesday has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cummins to collaborate on hydrogen fuel cell technology.

This will help the companies to jointly develop and commercialize electric and fuel cell powertrains combining Hyundai fuel cell systems and Cummins’ electric powertrain, battery and control technologies, Hyundai said in a statement.

The initial focus will be on North American commercial vehicle market and includes working with North American OEMs on the integration of these systems into their vehicles. The companies will also explore ways they can work together to develop next generation fuel cell systems, and have each committed to assign a team of individuals to investigate and pursue other areas of collaboration.

According to the company, the new collaboration may extend beyond the commercial vehicle market, as the companies will also evaluate the development of fuel cell power generators.

The availability of reliable back-up power generation to prevent data loss in emergency situations is a business-critical requirement for many organizations. Fuel cell back-up power generation is attractive for its reduced carbon footprint.

https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/auto-technology/hyundai-partners-with-cummins-for-hydrogen-fuel-cell-technology/71416178

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The world's first hydrogen-powered superyacht was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show. Here's a look inside the game-changing 367-foot vessel concept.
https://www.businessinsider.com/liquid-hydrogen-powered-superyacht-aqua-sinot-monaco-yacht-show-2019-9

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Hydrogen: A sign of the times

3 October 2019

The news of Linde’s soon-to-be-acquired 20% stake in ITM Power is a very interesting investment indeed. Not only is it a sign of the continued strength of ITM Power and a deepening of its five-year relationship with Linde, as its CEO refers to, it’s also another move into the hydrogen energy space by a Tier One industrial gases major.

In January (2019) we saw Air Liquide – via wholly-owned subsidiary the Hydrogen Company – acquire a stake in hydrogen generation technology specialist Hydrogenics Corporation on a private placement basis. Following completion, Air Liquide’s interest in Hydrogenics was expected to be approximately 18.6%.

Hydrogenics announces private placement

It also saw the appointment of Air Liquide’s Pierre-Etienne Franc to the Hydrogenics Board of Directors, effective immediately.

At the same time, Hydrogenics entered into a technology and business development agreement with Air Liquide to jointly develop PEM electrolysis technologies for growing hydrogen energy markets around the globe. This kind of agreement is echoed in today’s announcement from ITM Power; it has entered into a 50/50 joint venture with Linde to focus on delivering green hydrogen to large scale industrial projects.

We also saw Linde invest in Swiss green hydrogen producer and supplier Hydrospider in August, taking a 10% stake in the company and reaffirming its commitment to hydrogen mobility in the process. Owned equally by H2 Energy and Alpiq, now with a 40% share each to Linde’s 10%, Hydrospider is building Switzerland’s first commercial hydrogen production plant.

Linde acquires 10% stake in Hydrospider

It’s all a sign of the times, and the increasing emphasis placed on hydrogen as part of the clean energies transition. With its unrivalled expertise in the field of hydrogen and the conviction that hydrogen will have a key role to play in the future energy mix, it’s no surprise that the industrial gas heavyweights are making such investments and leveraging their unique synergies.

Indeed, upon his appointment to the Hydrogenics Board in February, Franc reflected, “The Air Liquide Group has been a pioneer in the development of the hydrogen industry and, like Hydrogenics, is convinced that the sector will play a key role in the fight against global warming.”

Today’s announcement is another affirmation of this growing feeling. For the gases industry, the hydrogen energy sector is not only a natural fit, it’s a major opportunity in spreading its investments and ensuring its positioned today for tomorrow’s growth. Watch this space…

https://www.gasworld.com/hydrogen-why-investments-are-a-sign-of-the-times/2017897.article

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New group aims to put 30,000 hydrogen-powered cars on the road by 2030

October 03, 2019

A new industry group wants to make hydrogen fuel available at filling stations on every main road in the country by 2030.

Hydrogen Mobility Ireland says a network of 76 stations would mean half the population would have one in their town.

Mark Teevan from Toyota Ireland heads up the industry group which hopes the government will put €14 million into the scheme.

He says action to cut carbon emissions in transport is needed sooner rather than later.

"The challenge is to get started since not only is a new infrastructure needed but also the production of a new fuel," said Mr Teevan.

"With Hydrogen Mobility Ireland, we have started the process of coordinating industry’s response to this challenge whilst also planning to align with academic and policy thinking.

"This report is the first output of HMI and leads us to the next part of the challenge which is to implement our findings."

At the launch at Bord Gáis Energy headquarters today, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment Richard Bruton said: "The Climate Action Plan, launched earlier this year, commits to over 180 actions across every sector of society to step up our response to the climate challenge.

"These actions were chosen based on an assessment of the least cost, least burden options currently available.

"The plan is a rolling plan, designed to integrate best practice as it emerges and adapt to emerging new technologies.

"I welcome this research as a valuable insight into a potential pathway for the introduction of hydrogen vehicles in Ireland between now and 2030."

In 2017, transport accounted for 39% of Ireland's total greenhouse gasses.

According to Hydrogen Mobility Ireland, hydrogen cars, buses and trucks can be a reality by 2023.

https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/business/new-group-aims-to-put-30000-hydrogen-powered-cars-on-the-road-by-2030-954691.html

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100% hydrogen suggested for Trump’s new Aberdeenshire housing estate

02/10/2019

The potential to heat Donald Trump’s newly-approved housing estate in Aberdeenshire with 100% hydrogen was discussed at an energy sector conference yesterday.

Gas distribution firm SGN was speaking at the seminar at the DoubleTree by Hilton, outlining its “vision” to heat some homes in the north-east by completely using hydrogen, a cleaner fuel to gas.

Working with partners, the firm plans to build a pipeline from the St Fergus gas terminal to Aberdeen to gradually input a “blend” of hydrogen to the network, stopping at 20% which is the capacity for current boilers.

However it would also be sized to “pick off the odd new housing site for 100% hydrogen” with the hope it can later be used to convert the city’s entire distribution system.

Aberdeenshire councillor Colin Pike, chairman of its sustainability committee, highlighted the local authority last week approved Trump’s 500-home plan at the Menie Estate and its potential for this project.

He asked: “Many will know that Aberdeenshire Council just last week gave permission to the Trump organisation at Menie to build 500 new homes.

“Would that be a situation where we could look at innovation and technology with a brand new housing scheme we could put hydrogen in place?”

Angus McIntosh, director of energy futures at SGN, replied “yes, in essence” adding the scheme would be opened up to new developments once the infrastructure was in place.

The work will depend on progress with scaling up the carbon capture and storage project at St Fergus, run by SGN’s partner Pale Blue Dot, which would process the hydrogen, along with other factors such as the success of a testing project taking place elsewhere in 2022.

Speaking later on the sidelines of the conference, Mr McIntosh said he envisions the pipeline from St Fergus would be laid in 2023 with the “Aberdeen Vision” being realised after that.

He added: “Once the infrastructure is there and built we could supply 100% hydrogen.

“We will size the pipeline appropriately to ensure there’s enough capacity for new connections, for new housing, but also for the future conversion of Aberdeen.

“I see Aberdeen being the best strategic location to start. If we start then we’ve got to get everything together in terms of the CCS, the generation, the infrastructure. We could be doing that in the mid-2020s. 2023 to 2026 type of thing.”

Trump International has been contacted for comment.

The firm was granted approval last week to build 500 homes and 50 hotel cottages at the Menie Estate near Balmedie.

SGN, which manages the natural gas network for millions of homes in Scotland and the south of England, said the “vision” will help inform future UK Government decisions to reduce carbon emissions by 2050.

Around 260 delegated are expected to attend the four-day conference, organised by Aberdeen City Council, ERM and Pale Blue Dot.

https://www.energyvoice.com/otherenergy/208871/100-hydrogen-suggested-for-trumps-new-aberdeenshire-housing-estate/

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Construction to begin on zero emission push boat powered by hydrogen fuel cells

Oct 02, 2019

Construction is set to begin this month on the “world’s first” zero emission push boat which will powered by Ballard Power Systems’ fuel cells.

The 20-metre-long and 8.2-metre-wide boat, to be named Elektra, will be used primarily to transport goods between Berlin and Hamburg as well as on inner-city transport routes in Berlin.

Propulsion power for Elektra will be provided by the Ballard fuel cell modules along with modular batteries.

Ballard said it intends to ship three of its FCveloCity® 100kW fuel cell modules in 2020 and the company will also support integration, commissioning and testing during the demonstration phase of the project.

While the Elektra is under construction, electricity and hydrogen infrastructure is planned to be installed in the vessel’s inland waterways operating area.

Jesper Themsen, President and CEO of Ballard Power Systems Europe, said, “We are excited that the Marine Center of Excellence at our facility in Hobro, Denmark – which we announced in April this year – will be integral to our activities on this project with Behala and other consortium partners.”

“During 2019 we have taken on a growing number of European marine projects, a sign of the growing interest around zero-emission solutions for the marine industry, with the Elektra being the latest example.”

The Elektra project is being led by the Department of Design and Operation of Maritime Systems of the Technical University in Berlin.

In addition to Ballard, Behala and the Schiffswerft Hermann Barthel shipyard, other partners include Anleg (hydrogen storage tanks), Schiffselektronik Rostock (maritime electronics), EST-Floattech (batteries), and Imperial Logistics.

https://www.h2-view.com/story/construction-to-begin-on-zero-emission-push-boat-powered-by-hydrogen-fuel-cells/

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Offshore platform would convert wind energy to hydrogen

02 Oct 2019

Tractebel Engineering and Tractebel Overdick, both part of energy major Engie, have unveiled a power-to-gas offshore platform that would convert wind energy to green hydrogen

Tractebel Overdick and Tractebel Engineering anticipate the platform could form the basis of an industrial-scale facility for producing green hydrogen.

The companies said the 400-MW wind-to-hydrogen platform is ready to be implemented. Doing so would increase production of green hydrogen that could be used in a number of potential applications, including transport. Using electricity from offshore wind to produce electricity to would also help alleviate congestion in the electricity grid. The hydrogen produced could also be used to store energy and compensate for seasonal fluctuations in output from renewables.

The Engie group companies highlighted that hydrogen is also relatively easy to transport using existing infrastructure such as gas pipelines and storage facilities. It can also be stored on ships and transported worldwide.

As an energy carrier, hydrogen can be used in engines, gas turbines and fuel cells, but can also be used to supplement natural gas, said Tractebel Engineering.

In addition, hydrogen is an important industrial raw material and can replace coke as a CO2-neutral reducing agent in steelmaking.

Tractebel Overdick head of business development Klaas Oltmann said, “In large offshore windfarms in the North Sea and elsewhere there is enormous potential for production of green hydrogen.” He said the new platform contains all of the components needed to produce green hydrogen, including electrolysis units and transformers to transform the electricity supplied by offshore wind turbines, as well as seawater desalination plants, to produce the ultra-pure water needed for electrolysis.

The company acknowledges that, compared to the production of grey hydrogen from fossil fuels, the cost of green hydrogen is currently slightly higher, but Tractebel project engineer Felix Knicker said that, with the economies of scale found in large-scale electrolysis plants, that will change. “This will create opportunities for different technology,” he said.

Tractebel business development manager Dr Hubert Schillings said, “Offshore wind power is the only renewable energy source in Germany with sufficient potential for expansion. Windfarms at sea will be installed further and further from the shore and in greater water depths. This makes constructing grid connections more expensive. With the wind-to-hydrogen offshore platform, we can offer an economically interesting alternative.”

The federal government in Germany is preparing a tender for power-to-gas trials in the North Sea and Baltic. Tractebel believes this provides an opportunity to realise offshore hydrogen production platforms of several hundred MW.

“Investments such as these can be just as interesting for windfarm operators as they are for utilities or industrial companies that use hydrogen in production processes,” Mr Schillings concluded. “We believe it is possible to commission offshore hydrogen platforms from 2025 onwards, but demonstrators could be built before then.”

Interest in the potential of offshore wind and power-to-gas is growing rapidly. The International Energy Agency said the world “has an important opportunity” to tap into green hydrogen produced using electricity from renewables such as wind and solar PV.

A report published in June 2019 analysed hydrogen’s potential and offers guidance on its future development. The report – The Future of Hydrogen: Seizing Today’s Opportunities – found that clean hydrogen is receiving strong support from governments and businesses around the world, with the number of policies and projects expanding rapidly.

An international consortium, the North Sea Wind Power Hub, recently published the results of the assessment phase of a study analysing the feasibility of one or several wind power hubs in the North Sea combining windfarms with interconnectors and power-to-gas.

Earlier in 2019, offshore wind leader Ørsted, ITM Power and Element Energy won funding from the UK Government for a green hydrogen project, the aim of which is to investigate delivering bulk, low-cost and zero-carbon hydrogen.

RWE recently confirmed that, with offshore wind’s potential in mind, it is examining production of green hydrogen in the province of Groningen in the Netherlands.

https://www.rivieramm.com/news-content-hub/news-content-hub/offshore-platform-would-convert-offshore-wind-to-hydrogen-56371

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Tractebel eyes green hydrogen offshore

1 October 2019

Tractebel Engineering and Tractebel Overdick are working on an offshore platform that could produce 'green' hydrogen from offshore wind power.

The companies, which are part of Engie, said they are developing a solution that could deliver up to 400MW.

The platform would incorporate all the technical components required for hydrogen production – including electrolysis units, transformers and desalinisation plants, the Tractebel companies said.
Energy stored in the hydrogen would then be transported by pipeline or ship providing an alternative to delivering power through cables, they added.

Tractebel said it is in a position to undertake all the engineering services for every stage of planning, from the feasibility study through to the detailed design.

As part of Engie, it could also deliver and operate offshore H2 platforms as an EPC supplier and offer large-scale storage.

https://renews.biz/55614/tractebel-eyes-green-hydrogen-offshore/

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Exclusive: Hydrogen will play an important role for a more sustainable future

Oct 02, 2019

NPROXX believes before we see the mass take-up of hydrogen as a fuel to combat pollution and carbon dioxide emissions for heavy duty vehicles and personal motoring, consumers need to be certain they can fill up their vehicles.

With a new hydrogen station opening roughly every two weeks currently in Germany, the country looks set to achieve its ‘100 hydrogen stations before the end of 2019’ goal.

“Undoubtedly the biggest challenge facing the take up of hydrogen as a fuel will be the provision of convenient refuelling infrastructure,” Michael Ismar, Marketing Manager at NPROXX said.

“Even Germany can only currently sustain a hydrogen supply to major cities and routes. Nevertheless, the situation is changing, and as the impetus to replace fossil fuels, the need for hydrogen infrastructure becomes more pressing.”

H2 View spoke with Ismar to find out more about why NPROXX’s products are at the heart of the rapidly changing world of transport and why Germany is leading the way with regards to hydrogen stations.

Q. NPROXX’s products are at the heart of the rapidly changing world of transport. Tell us why what NPROXX does is so important to this future world of hydrogen-powered mobility?

NPROXX is a global leader in designing, developing and manufacturing Type 4 pressure vessels for the storage of hydrogen under high pressure. We supply an indispensable key element to the globally raising hydrogen industry: the storage systems.

Based on 40 years’ experience in carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) products and systems in various industries, NPROXX provides composite tank systems and tailor-made solutions for hydrogen storage applications: transport and storage (up to 1,000 bar), heavy-duty vehicles (350 bar) and automotive (700 bar).

Q. Germany is arguably leading the way in Europe with regards to hydrogen stations. Why do you think this is?

The number of hydrogen refuelling stations in Europe is growing and yes, Germany leads the way with 75 stations operational today.

Hydrogen mobility plays a vital role in this development and the plan is to reach 100 refuelling stations by the end of this year.

In addition, Germany and the EU support a variety of hydrogen projects such as the installation of a refuelling station for hydrogen buses in the Rhineland area to which NPROXX contributes by supplying the hydrogen storage facilities.

Q. What hydrogen-related innovation, application or technology makes you most excited for the future?

There are two very exciting developments. First, the development of onboard hydrogen tank systems for cars, buses, trucks, trains and heavy-duty vehicles. NPROXX is developing these tanks for high pressurised on-board hydrogen storage and we see new clean vehicles entering the markets. We are just at the beginning of a new era of mobility.

Second, there is the hydrogen infrastructure which is required to support this new sustainable mobility. The hydrogen infrastructure has to be extended and more fuelling stations and concepts to be established. NPROXX supplies pressure vessels for both applications, transportation of hydrogen and stationary storage.

“Globally, we see a number of important states go into the same direction as Germany does, such as China, Japan, Korea and California. For that reason, we strongly believe that hydrogen will play an important role for a more sustainable future”

Q. Could you tell us about a recent hydrogen-related project NPROXX has been involved in?

NPROXX is working on an exciting project with Siemens Mobility to develop a hydrogen-powered train. The concept shall deliver a clean and emission-free alternative to diesel-powered trains.

The innovative 26-month project, which began in November 2017, has been split into two phases: phase 1 is a test phase in which the fuel cell that will drive the train is tested in a train-like environment at the RWTH Aachen University. Phase 2 involves developing the hydrogen pressure vessel systems that will store the fuel.

During the first phase the project is looking at responses and performance of the fuel cell in varying operating and environmental conditions.

For NPROXX, the key challenge of phase 2 will be to design and develop the pressure vessels themselves, as well as the accompanying mounting rack and valve frame. Acceleration and vibration are both key issues in railway technology that need to be considered in the design.

Q. What excites you most about the potential for hydrogen use globally?

The use of green hydrogen enables us to implement cleaner, more sustainable solutions for mobility and transport. These solutions deliver healthier urban and rural environments by reducing harmful emissions from passenger and commercial vehicles. By replacing fossil fuels, green hydrogen will also reduce the CO2 emission and helps against climate change.

NPROXX is a leader in this positive development and we are committed to enabling and delivering emission-free energy wherever it can be achieved.

Globally, we see a number of important states go into the same direction as Germany does, such as China, Japan, Korea and California. For that reason, we strongly believe that hydrogen will play an important role for a more sustainable future.

https://www.h2-view.com/story/exclusive-hydrogen-will-play-an-important-role-for-a-more-sustainable-future/

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Hydrogen company 8 Rivers to raise $60m private capital for Taranaki plant

Oct 02 2019

A US-based renewable energy investment company is looking to raise $60m private capital to help fund research into carbon storage and power generation to make urea fertiliser in Taranaki.

8 Rivers Capital was turned down by the Government's Provincial Growth Fund for $20m to fund a feasibility study to build a 360 megawatt power station because the project was fossil-fuel based, using carbon capture and storage, Business Desk reported.

The Pouakai project in Taranaki planned to use carbon dioxide to drive turbines and produce 170MW of electricity before injecting the gas into former gas and oil fields underground to capture and store carbon, it was reported.

The project would include building an industrial site in Taranaki combining electricity generation, hydrogen, and ammonia-urea production with zero emissions.

READ MORE: Is the 8 Rivers' Taranaki zero-emissions hydrogen project another ostrich idea?

The idea was praised by Regional Development Minister, and "champion of the provinces", Shane Jones when it was first made public last November.

At the time Jones called the new development "monumental" which could "create hydrogen and create an output of urea".

The company has partnered with Toshiba to research and build the plant, which would produce 200m kilograms of hydrogen and 2.1m tonnes of urea fertiliser for domestic use and export.

It is already involved with Toshiba, Exelon and McDermott International in building a US$160m 50MW demonstration plant in Texas, it was reported.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/116272036/hydrogen-company-8-rivers-to-raise-60m-private-capital-for-taranaki-plant

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Twitter: Did you catch @bjornsimonsen's presentation at the #hydrogen seminar in Copenhagen last week? If you missed it, you can still download the presentation here:

Did you catch @bjornsimonsen's presentation at the #hydrogen seminar in Copenhagen last week? If you missed it, you can still download the presentation here: https://t.co/cjHfwGalUe

— Nel Hydrogen (@nelhydrogen) October 2, 2019

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Twitter: We’re proud to have co-authored a paper on #hydrogen supply for transit bus fleets in California together with @BallardPwr. Read more about how #greenhydrogen is becoming more accessible for California transit agencies in their blog post:

We’re proud to have co-authored a paper on #hydrogen supply for transit bus fleets in California together with @BallardPwr. Read more about how #greenhydrogen is becoming more accessible for California transit agencies in their blog post: https://t.co/FG4HReUewL

— Nel Hydrogen (@nelhydrogen) October 2, 2019

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Next-gen Toyota Mirai confirmed despite continuing issues with hydrogen tech

September 30, 2019

Despite low sales owing to the slow rollout of hydrogen infrastructure, the Toyota Mirai fuel cell car isn’t going away. A next-generation Mirai will bow in 2020, Toyota chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada said at a hydrogen conference in Tokyo, according to Automotive News Europe.

The current-generation Mirai first appeared in 2014, so it’s about time for a new version. The Mirai was the first modern hydrogen fuel cell car intended to be sold in large numbers, but infrastructure hasn’t caught up to Toyota’s ambitious plans. With so few places to fill up with hydrogen, United States sales are currently limited to California. Toyota sold just 1,700 cars in the U.S. last year.

Another issue with the Mirai and other current fuel cell cars is cost. The Mirai starts at $59,455, a steep price for what is, aside from the high-tech fuel cell powertrain, an ordinary Toyota sedan. While it was intended to take hydrogen to the masses, the Mirai is built in a small batch fashion that doesn’t allow it to take advantage of economies of scale. The car is built in the Japanese factory that previously made the Lexus LFA supercar, partly because the factory was equipped to work with carbon fiber. Instead of making body panels for a high-end Lexus, the plant now makes carbon fiber hydrogen tanks for the Mirai.

Toyota does expect the price of fuel cell vehicles to go down. Prices should match hybrid cars within 10 years, Matt Harrison, Toyota’s head of European sales and marketing, told Automotive News Europe earlier this year. But that means price parity won’t be achieved until the third-generation Mirai launches, Harrison said, so the second-generation model launching in 2020 will likely be another costly, low volume vehicle.

Two other automakers currently sell hydrogen cars in the U.S., and they’ve experienced similar problems to Toyota. Honda and Hyundai only sell their fuel cell vehicles in California due to lack of fueling infrastructure elsewhere, and both models carry a significant price premium over controversial internal combustion models or hybrids. That didn’t stop Hyundai from replacing its Tucson Fuel Cell with a new design called the Nexo, though.

Toyota’s interest in hydrogen fuel cells goes way beyond passenger cars. The automaker has deployed a fleet of fuel cell semi-trucks in California, and will use fuel cell buses at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Toyota is also using fuel cells to power a factory, and is even developing a hydrogen lunar rover.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/toyota-mirai-hydrogen-fuel-cell-car-redesign-reports/

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Exclusive: Hydrogen Future launched to deliver regulatory reform

Oct 01, 2019

Aiming to create the right policy frameworks to achieve a hydrogen future, the “world’s first” specialist communications unit dedicated to hydrogen has been launched.

Based in London, UK, Hydrogen Future will focus on political lobbying, media relations and specialist events.

It has been set up by independent UK agency The Connect Group, who have collaborated with some of the biggest players in hydrogen innovation such as Cadent, Northern Gas Networks and Toyota, over the past few years.

Explaining the reasons behind the launch, Rob Dale (pictured below), who will lead Hydrogen Future, told H2 View, “We’re launching this unique, specialist unit because we believe that a major shift to hydrogen is essential to meeting worldwide Net Zero targets.”

“This will create millions of high-quality jobs across the world and open exciting global export and investment opportunities, and we want to play a big role in delivering this.”

“However, to realise these long-term opportunities, we need governments to make bold policy decisions today.”

Dale said Hydrogen Future will support organisations across the world to demonstrate the varied and vital role that hydrogen must play in our future economy.

It is already supporting world-leading hydrogen initiatives such as H21, HyDeploy and the Gas Decarbonisation Pathways from the Energy Networks Association.

The Connect Group has strong credits in the hydrogen sector and also established the influential All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Hydrogen – its biggest success to date.

The cross-party group of MPs and Members of the House of Lords has significantly increased political interest in hydrogen in the UK and secured a commitment by the government to conduct a major consultation in the potential of ‘low carbon gas’.

Exclusive: Hydrogen essential to achieving net zero in the UK

The APPG has also convened the first ever Hydrogen Showcase, which saw more than 40 MPs attend and meet with leading businesses and organisations working on hydrogen in the UK.

The team behind Hydrogen Future has also sought to bring stories of hydrogen to the wider public, working with the BBC, Sky News, The Economist and The Times to promote news articles.

Andy Sawford, Managing Partner of The Connect Group, commented, “We’re incredibly excited about the potential of hydrogen and the opportunity for a major shift in how we travel, heat our homes and power heavy industry.”

“We know that support for hydrogen among politicians and advisers is growing quickly. To capitalise on this, and secure the right policy framework needed for long term investment, we must now inspire decision makers through clear, exciting and evidenced based communications.”

https://www.h2-view.com/story/exclusive-hydrogen-future-launched-to-deliver-regulatory-reform/

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China version of IEA hydrogen report published

30 September 2019

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently published a report on China’s hydrogen economy together with the Economy and Technology Research Institute of China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC).

The Chinese version of the report, titled The future of hydrogen: Capturing the opportunity today, points out that hydrogen as a clean future energy is presenting an unprecedented political and commercial development opportunity, with major economies like China, Japan, the US and EU introducing many hydrogen development policies and projects.

“Now is the important period for the hydrogen industry to expand the scale of technology and lower the cost so that hydrogen can be promoted extensively,” it says.

Nevertheless, the report also notes that, amidst this favourable outlook, there are challenges that the development of the hydrogen industry is facing at the present – including the high cost of hydrogen production, the slow development of infrastructure, the carbon emissions of hydrogen production from fossil energies, and a lack of relevant laws and regulations.

IEA calls for action to scale up hydrogen

For the future development of the global hydrogen industry, the report suggests that a long-term development strategy should be established, the commercial needs for the clean hydrogen development have to be stimulated, the costs of research and development (R&D) are to be lowered, and international cooperation is to be strengthened.

The hydrogen economy in China

The IEA further states that, for the short-term development, there are four areas that are favourable for the development of the hydrogen [energy] industry:

Make use of the chemical clusters along the coasts, turning them into hubs of low cost and low carbon hydrogen
Make the best use of the existing natural gas infrastructure to stimulate the supply of new clean hydrogen
Expand the application regime of hydrogen via fleets, cargo delivery, and public transport
Start the international trading of hydrogen and to establish the first routes for the cargo flow.
The IEA’s report, titled The Future of Hydrogen: Seizing Today’s Opportunities, was initially launched at the G20 Summit in Tokyo, Japan in June.

https://www.gasworld.com/china-version-of-iea-hydrogen-report-published/2017874.article

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New catalyst outshines platinum for producing hydrogen

SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, packs a powerful punch. And because it contains no carbon, it produces only water when used as a fuel. But on Earth, hydrogen most often exists in combination with other elements, which means it needs to be extracted.

To harness the clean power of hydrogen for energy applications and other uses, researchers are looking at affordable ways to produce and store hydrogen.

New research from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) shows that a pairing of humble minerals outshines other precious metal materials when it comes to producing hydrogen. With collaborators from Oregon State University (OSU), the researchers tested a molybdenum-phosphide (MoP) catalyst with wastewater in a small reactor called a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC). Test results showed that MoP worked better than platinum, a precious and expensive metal typically used for its high catalytic performance. The MoP catalyst also produced hydrogen five times as fast as other non-platinum catalysts reported in related studies.

But the real kicker? Their catalyst also worked well with seawater.

"If you can produce hydrogen from seawater, the resource pool is pretty much unlimited," said Yuyan Shao, a material scientist at PNNL who led the catalyst research.

Like seawater, the MoP catalyst material is widely available, and therefore, cheap. The catalyst also worked with wastewater, another ubiquitous resource.

Details of the team's study appear in the journal ACS Catalysis. The findings stem from a three-year project funded by the Department of Energy's Fuel Cell Technologies Office.

A better alternative

One of the most common methods for producing hydrogen is a process called electrolysis. This process combines electricity with various chemicals, called electrolytes, and a solid catalyst material. The ensuing reaction produces hydrogen, but the entire process uses a lot of energy and costly resources like platinum.

Fermentation using renewable sources or waste streams holds promise for affordable hydrogen production. But the fermentation process works slowly, yields are low, and the product stream requires expensive cleanup due to other byproducts from fermentation. In MECs, an electrical current is coupled with bacteria to decompose organics and make hydrogen. Unfortunately, the cells also use costly platinum for the reaction surface, and if non-platinum catalysts are used, hydrogen yields remain low.

At OSU, researchers developed a hybrid MEC design in which fermentation and electrolysis take place in a single pot as opposed to separate steps, and the byproducts are directly consumed in the process. This integrated design increases productivity and lowers equipment costs. But with the high cost of platinum, the team needed a catalyst that could lower production costs to around two dollars per kilogram of hydrogen.

Second-phase surprise

Building on prior discoveries with the MoP catalyst, PNNL researchers investigated the catalyst for use in MECs. The research team started with the MoP combination because of its affinity for activating, or separating, water molecules. The catalyst is also tunable—the amount of each mineral can be adjusted. According to the team's hypothesis, this tuning would optimize the amount of hydrogen produced in a single reaction.

They were partly right.

Under a powerful microscope, they found that the catalyst assembled into a mixture of two distinct crystal phases—MoP and MoP2. The atomic structure for each phase was different, leading to different reactions. While MoP2 released hydrogen atoms from the water molecules, MoP converted the hydrogen atoms to hydrogen gas molecules. The two active sites boosted the overall reaction.

"We did not expect the simultaneous formation of the two crystal phases," said Shao. "The two phases work way better than the single phase."

The researchers ran their experiments under neutral pH conditions in both the hybrid cell at OSU using wastewater and in another reactor at PNNL using seawater, with consistent results. Shao said these findings give the researchers confidence that the method is sound, eliminates platinum and other byproducts, and holds great promise for advancing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

https://phys.org/news/2019-09-catalyst-outshines-platinum-hydrogen.html

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THE BIG PICTURE: Hydrogen Power

10/01/2019

Hydrogen is emerging as a formidable player in the energy transition, owing to its potential to decarbonize a range of sectors and its versatility. According to a June 2019–released report prepared for the G20 by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the government of Japan, 76% of dedicated hydrogen produced today (around 70 metric tons) is from natural gas and almost the rest from coal.

The top four single uses of hydrogen today are oil refining (33%); ammonia production (27%); methanol production (11%); and steel production via the direct reduction of iron ore (3%). In the past two decades, however, more than 200 projects have started operation to convert electricity and water into hydrogen (via electrolysis) to reduce emissions—from transport, natural gas use, and industrial sectors—or to support the integration of renewables into the energy system. This month’s graphic shows projects that have been commissioned since 2000, are under construction, or are planned that use hydrogen to supply power to the grid (with a gas turbine or fuel cell). Marked on the map below and listed below are 10 of the largest projects (ranked by MWe). Click on the map to launch an interactive version with more details. Source: The Future of Hydrogen, IEA, 2019



1. Crystal Brook Energy Park, Australia (50-MWe). Along with hydrogen production, Neoen Australia’s “super-hub” facility will have 110-MW of wind, 100-MW of PV, and 100-MW of lithium-ion battery storage when it comes online in 2021.

2. Port Lincoln project, Eyre Peninsula, Australia (15 MWe). Australian firm Hydrogen Utility in February 2019 picked Baker Hughes GE to develop its novaLT gas turbine generator for the green hydrogen power plant that could be online in 2021.

3. Fukushima Power-to-gas Hydrogen Project, Japan (10 MWe). Slated to start in 2020, this power-to-gas project spearheaded by Japan’s government, Toshiba, Tohuku Electric, and Iwatani Corp. will house a hydrogen production facility alongside solar power generation facilities.

4. Hebei, China (4 MWe). French hydrogen equipment firm McPhy completed this power-to-gas project, which stores surplus power from a 200-MW wind farm, in 2017 for Hebei Construction and Investment Group Co.

5. ELYGRID, Spain (3.5 MW). Between 2011 and 2014, this research project studied efficiency improvements at high pressure alkaline electrolysers that produced hydrogen from wind power.

6. Markham Energy Storage, Canada (2.5 MWe). Hydrogenics Corp. and Enbridge Gas Distribution began operating this power-to-gas/energy storage facility in July 2018. It features a “next-generation” proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer technology to provide Ontario’s independent grid operator with a fast-responding resource to support reliability.

https://www.powermag.com/the-big-picture-hydrogen-power/

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S. Korea, Australia to expand joint research on hydrogen, rare earth

September 30, 2019

SEOUL, Sept. 30 (Yonhap) -- South Korea and Australia will expand cooperation in the fields of hydrogen charging stations and rare earth processing, the science ministry said Monday.

During the bilateral science and technology joint committee meeting held in Canberra on Friday, the two countries agreed to conduct research to extract hydrogen from liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas so the resource can be effectively used in charging stations.

Hydrogen releases no carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which is cited for contributing to global warming. South Korea is seeking to build a society that utilizes hydrogen as the main source of energy for power generation and other daily uses.

On rare earth processing, South Korea and Australia will carry out experiments to capture, isolate and use radioactive elements that can come from processing monazite and other resources.

The two countries plan to cooperate in biotech convergence and the internet of things, which have good growth potential, according to the ministry.

Seoul and Canberra are currently engaged in an ultra-high-definition imaging platform that can be used in the treatment of illnesses and research into plants and animals.

In the field of internet of things, work is underway to develop a highly sensitive sensor that can operate independent of a battery source. This research will be conducted by the University of New South Wales.

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20190930004700320

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Hyundai and Cummins collaborate on hydrogen fuel cell technology

30/09/2019

Hyundai Motor Company and American engine manufacturer Cummins have announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to “jointly evaluate opportunities to develop and commercialize electric and fuel cell powertrains”.

The new powertrains are expected to combine Hyundai’s fuel cell systems with Cummins’ electric powertrain, battery and control technologies.

Initially the development will focus on the North American commercial vehicle market, including working with OEMs on the integration of the systems into their CVs.

Leverage strengths
Thad Ewald, vice president, corporate strategy, Cummins Inc., said: “This partnership is a terrific opportunity for both companies to leverage our respective strengths and create new opportunities to grow and broaden the product portfolio we bring to our customers.

“We’ve made significant investments over the past year to accelerate our fuel cell capabilities including our acquisition of Hydrogenics and this partnership is another step forward.”

Leave a mark
Saehoon Kim, vice president and head of fuel cell group at Hyundai Motor Group, said: “With Hyundai’s global leadership in fuel cell systems coupled with Cummins’ unparalleled electrified powertrain technologies, we expect this partnership to leave a mark in the commercial vehicle market.

“Collaborations such as this will enable us to further diversify our business, as well as reinforce our global hydrogen leadership through sales of new and existing Hyundai fuel cell systems.”

The partnership will allow Hyundai to increase its presence in the North American commercial vehicle market, and Cummins to bolster its electrified power product offering by adding Hyundai’s advanced fuel cell technologies.

Fuel cell generators
Additionally, the collaboration may extend beyond the commercial vehicle market, as the companies will also “evaluate the development of fuel cell power generators”. Applications could include reliable back-up power generation to prevent data loss in emergency situations.

Hyundai recently announced that it has joined Ionity, the joint venture between BMW Group, Ford Motor Company, Daimler AG, and the Volkswagen Group with Porsche AG.

The group intends to make long-distance electric vehicle (EV) travel across Europe a possibility.

Ionity was founded in 2017, and it is hoping to fast track its plans to operate a High-Power Charging Network along the main highways in Europe.

https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/manufacturer-news/2019/09/30/hyundai-and-cummins-collaborate-on-hydrogen-fuel-cell-technology

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Clean Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Vehicles Powered by the Wind and Sun

Sep 27th 2019

It’s a wonder that hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles aren’t more popular in cities around the world. Powered with the most abundant element in the universe and using technology that emits only water, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles only number in the thousands. Electric cars, on the other hand, are expected to reach 4.5 million by 2020, according to McKinsey. Several car manufacturers, including Hyundai, Honda and Toyota, are aiming higher, though, and have set goals to sell hundreds of thousands of hydrogen-powered cars within the next few years, reports NPR.

But fuel cells are expensive, and methods used to split water molecules (H2O) into oxygen (O2) and hydrogen gas (H2), are energy-intensive. Currently, 95% of the hydrogen produced in the United States comes from natural gas, according to the Department of Energy. That makes environmentalists uneasy because an otherwise emission-free fuel is produced through fossil fuel extraction and development. But research teams are working on new ways to develop clean hydrogen using renewable electricity generated by the sun or wind. Here’s how.

Sun and Saltwater
From their vantage, about three miles from the Pacific coast, researchers at Stanford University in California see the ocean every day. Now they’ve found a way to use that abundant saltwater in a well-known process called electrolysis, a technique that uses electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The reaction typically occurs inside a unit called an electrolyzer, where a power source connects to an anode (positive end) and a cathode (negative end) submerged in water. When a certain voltage runs through the water, oxygen comes out of the anode and hydrogen gas bubbles out of the cathode. That gas can be captured and run through a fuel cell.

Researchers would like to produce hydrogen gas from ocean water, since it’s so plentiful. But negatively charged chloride particles in seawater salt can corrode the positive end of the electrolyzer, ruining the unit within hours of use. Relying on purified water is an option, but in a world where drought and pollution are increasing, fresh water is a diminishing resource.

Professor Hongjie Dai of Stanford and his colleagues think they have a solution. They discovered that if they coated the anode with a negatively charged material, it repelled the negatively charged chloride particles and reduced corrosion. The material they developed is layered, with a foam core made of nickel metal, surrounded by nickel sulfide, topped with nickel-iron hydroxide. In lab experiments, Dai and his colleagues were able to run up to 10 times more electricity through their multi-layer coating without the risk of corrosion. “I think we set a record on the current to split seawater,” Dai said in a press release.

They also made a solar-powered prototype machine that produced as much clean hydrogen as conventional technologies do that use purified water. If Dai and his team can scale up such a system, the hydrogen fuel they produce would be 100% emission-free.

Harnessing Wind for Hydrogen
About 10 miles north of the British mainland, a Scottish archipelago of islands, reefs and islets weather the battering winds of the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. Historically, the enclave, called Orkney, has relied on diesel fuel. Over the last decade, though, wind turbines have sprouted like weeds, and today the island community is home to the highest concentration of wind turbines in the United Kingdom, according to Orkney Renewable Energy Forum. Recently, efforts have been made to use the wind energy to generate clean hydrogen fuel. The idea is to use it to power ferries that regularly transport people and goods between the islands and the mainland.

Such a notion emerged on the small Orcadian island of Eday, which is home to about 150 people. In 2012, the community commissioned the installation of a 900-kilowatt wind turbine. The island is also home to a tidal energy site, which generates electricity from the motion of tides. Both renewable energy systems generate so much electricity that the residents had to figure out what to do with the excess. They decided to use it to produce clean hydrogen via electrolysis. By 2017, they had shipped the first delivery of hydrogen gas to the nearby island of Kirkwell, according to Community Energy Scotland.

That’s just the beginning, though. Representatives from the European Marine Energy Centre say they want to expand the production of clean hydrogen to power local vessels that rely on diesel.

Other Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Vehicles
Seafaring vessels powered by hydrogen fuel are just one of several new vehicles trading fossil fuels for emission-free fuel cells. For instance, hydrogen-powered trains and trams are rolling down the tracks in the United Kingdom, Germany and China. Hydrogen-powered aircraft are also coming online. The Skai eVTOL by Alakai Technologies, based in Fairfax, Virginia, the Element One by Singapore-based HES Energy Systems and the HY4 by HY4, based in Germany are just a handful of the newest examples.

The state of California is building out a network of hydrogen filling stations for cars between Los Angeles and San Diego. That kind of infrastructure on the ground could incentivize vehicle manufacturers to build hydrogen-fueled cars, and also encourage customers to buy them.

When it comes to the elements, hydrogen is literally number one. That’s its place on the periodic table, and hydrogen makes up more than 90% of all of the atoms in the universe, according to the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Expanding renewable energy resources such as solar and wind power could be humanity’s best chance at exploiting hydrogen’s full energy potential. If we can, we could power the world with zero emissions.

https://now.northropgrumman.com/clean-hydrogen-fuel-cell-vehicles-powered-by-the-wind-and-sun/

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Aberdeen hotel to host city’s first hydrogen festival

29/09/2019

Aberdeen role as a hydrogen hub will be in the spotlight at a city festival next week.

The inaugural Hydrogen Festival begins on Tuesday and will run through to Friday, with a programme tailored to a business audience.

As part of the programme, Aberdeen City Council will co-host a one-day conference in conjunction with Pale Blue Dot Energy and ERM and with additional support from Opportunity North East, Scottish Enterprise and the Oil & Gas Technology Centre.

Keep up to date with the latest news with The Evening Express newsletter
The event, which will feature 11 expert speakers, will take place on Tuesday at the Hilton Treetops Hotel.

Philip Bell, the local authority’s hydrogen spokesman, said: “This region has a track record as an energy industry innovator and once again we aim to lead from the front as hydrogen opens up new possibilities.”

https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/news/local/aberdeen-hotel-to-host-citys-first-hydrogen-festival/

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IS HYDROGEN LEADING THE RACE FOR THE FUTURE OF HEATING IN THE UK?

30 September, 2019

As Hy4Heat Work Package 4 enters a new phase, Steve Sutton, Technical Manager at the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council, looks at where we are on the road to finding the future of fuel.

The exploration into hydrogen as a replacement for natural gas gained considerable traction with the government’s allocation of £25 million to advance industry studies in the form of ‘Hy4Heat’.

The scheme, which is made up of a series of inter-related ‘work packages’, will establish the parameters, assess the feasibility, and support the development of hydrogen appliances for use in domestic and commercial premises.

The study is well underway and already making waves in the heating industry. Moving forward at pace, ‘Work Package 4’ (domestic hydrogen gas appliance development) has recently reached Phase 2. This particular work package is concerned with the development of domestic hydrogen appliances to demonstrate the safe use of hydrogen as an option for decarbonising heat. The study aims to give detailed evidence of the safety, emissions, functionality, and end-use application.

Phase 2 of the project marks the beginnings of developing prototypes of hydrogen appliances including cookers, fires, and boilers. This phase begins the heating industry’s dive into development of prototype appliances with several manufacturers actively involved in creating and testing hydrogen products. Manufacturers have until March 2020 when the phase draws to a close. This is not the end of the story however, as demonstration trials of the manufacturers’ appliances in a controlled, unoccupied environment are expected to take place in 2020.

It is not just appliances that will need to be produced if hydrogen is to have a future in the UK. Rigorous appliance certification standards will be required to maintain standards and ensure consumer safety. Work is already underway by BSI to produce a test standard – PAS 4444. Industry professionals are currently involved in the process, ensuring continued input from manufacturers who the changes will directly impact.

PAS, or Publicly Available Specification, is a fast-track standardisation document which is produced as a result of expert consulting from BSI. A PAS sets out good practice standards for products, services and processes and is developed by a steering group of stakeholders selected from relevant fields, and chosen by BSI. This specification provides organisations with the guidance needed to establish the safety and integrity of their products.

Both the purity of the hydrogen to be deployed throughout the UK’s gas infrastructure and the potential requirement for artificial colourants in hydrogen are also currently under review. The review has yielded several areas that will require further investigation, such as, what will be the most cost-effective hydrogen purity level that can be delivered through the grid? It is expected to be set at a level of 98% purity, but investigations are ongoing.

Additionally, as hydrogen burns relatively clear, options to colour the flame are under consideration, including applying colourant as a network addition, as an appliance addition, or not adding colourant at all.

There is also work to be done ascertaining the type of odorant to be used. Many experts prefer to use the current odorant, a gas smell, recognised by the general public.

21 May 2019 marked the launch of ‘Work Package 5’ (Commercial Appliances Research and Development) at the BEIS Conference Centre. The session brought together commercial manufacturers and other stakeholders to discuss the future of heat in commercial premises.

Appliances that will need to be considered for use with hydrogen include commercial space heating and hot water, not forgetting commercial catering, and critical system components such as connectors and sensors. However, any development of appliances for commercial use will however not happen overnight. It will not occur until the market research study into the variety of commercial appliances and the issues to be addressed has been completed.

We’d all better get used to hearing the word ‘hydrogen’ much more, because it’s certainly not disappearing from the debate about the future of fuel anytime soon. As the industry looks to decarbonise the grid and ‘go green’, all practical options should be left on the table – including hydrogen.

https://www.hvpmag.co.uk/Is-hydrogen-leading-the-race-for-the-future-of-heating-in-the-UK/11596

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Hydrogen-powered tug to debut in Port of Antwerp

30th September 2019

The Port of Antwerp has placed an order for the world’s first hydrogen-powered tug as the next step in its transition to becoming fully carbon neutral.
The ultra-low emission ‘Hydrotug’, which is powered by a combination of diesel and hydrogen fuel, is to be manufactured by Antwerp-based shipbuilder Compagnie Maritime Belge; and will feature a motor certified to the EU’s strictest emissions standard. The hydrogen-powered tug is expected to be completed within two years, in line with the Port of Antwerp’s overarching policy of implementing full maritime sustainability.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of the Port of Antwerp, said: “As an industrial seaport, Antwerp’s role in the energy transition should not be underestimated. We are working towards becoming a CO2-neutral port. Together with our partners we are preparing for the future in a constant search for innovative applications and opportunities. With this world first we aim to further prepare the way for alternative fuels such as hydrogen, in order to realise the transition to alternative, renewable sources of energy. At Port of Antwerp we are setting a good example with this significant step towards making our own tugs eco-friendly.”

Compagnie Maritime Belge won a sustainability award in 2018 for its ‘Hydroville’ passenger ferry shuttle, which is also powered by a combination of hydrogen and diesel and which is currently in operation around the Port of Antwerp providing commuter transport. The company hopes the hydrogen-powered tug will further cement its status as a leader in the shipping sector’s transition to clean fuels.

Alexander Saverys, CEO of Compagnie Maritime Belge, said: “We are convinced of the potential of hydrogen as the key to sustainable shipping and making the energy transition of a reality. The expertise that we acquire with the Hydrotug will enable us to further develop the use of hydrogen as a ship’s fuel.”

Port of Antwerp alderman Annick De Ridder said: “Hydrogen is one of the keys to an economy and society with minimum impact on the environment. As such it is one of the fuels of the future. With Port of Antwerp we aim to develop its potential to the full, committing ourselves as active pioneers in the hydrogen economy on a European scale. The ecosystem represented by the Antwerp port platform is an ideal testbed for this technology on a large scale. In this way we seek to be a source of inspiration and to set an example for other ports.”

https://www.governmenteuropa.eu/hydrogen-powered-tug/94844/

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Toyota doubles down on hydrogen with 2nd-gen Mirai’s 2020 release

September 29, 2019

Toyota Chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada recently confirmed that the Japanese automaker is preparing to launch the second-generation of its hydrogen fuel-cell car, the Mirai, next year. The executive shared an update on the upcoming vehicle while speaking at an international ministerial meeting on hydrogen energy in Tokyo, Japan.

The Japanese carmaker has not revealed any teasers for the upcoming vehicle yet, though concerns from the auto community have emerged about the design of the upcoming zero-emissions car. The original Mirai was already polarizing due to its rather over-styled appearance, and this might only get even more pronounced in the 2020 vehicle, considering Toyota’s recent tendency to adopt more radical designs for its vehicles.

In a previous statement at the Automotive News Europe Congress earlier this year in Gothenburg, Sweden, Toyota European head of sales and marketing Matt Harrison noted that the company expects the price of hydrogen vehicles to match hybrids within 10 years, and price parity to be reached once the third generation of H2 fuel cell vehicles are released.

“By the third generation, we fully expect fuel cell costs to be comparable with hybrids. We believe fuel cell vehicles have a huge potential,” he said.

The Mirai was launched in late 2014 as part of Toyota’s development of zero-emissions vehicles. Marketed as the company’s first mass-market hydrogen fuel-cell car, the Mirai was generally expected to do for hydrogen fuel-cell cars what the ubiquitous Prius did for hybrid vehicles.

It failed in this regard. Due in no small part to the lack of hydrogen fuel stations across the globe, the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles has been incredibly slow. In California, for example, there are 33 hydrogen stations, far less than the number of electric vehicle charging stalls in the state. And with the emergence of bang-for-your-buck all-electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, vehicles like the Mirai run the risk of being unnecessary.

This lack of charging stations is a notable Achilles Heel for hydrogen cars, considering that their one advantage over pure EVs is supposed to be their longer range. Such advantages are a moot point if there are not enough places to refuel the vehicle. Add the fact that the Mirai starts at around $58,500 in the United States and it becomes very difficult to justify its purchase over the sub-$40,000 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, which is supported by the Supercharger Network, and has features like basic Autopilot as standard.

Overall, Toyota’s next-generation Mirai could very well follow the footsteps of its predecessor, perhaps because it is yet another vehicle that promises change down the road. Such is an idea that is not as attractive as it was years ago, as all-electric cars such as the Tesla Model 3 and the Porsche Taycan are already initiating change in the mindset of car buyers today.

https://www.teslarati.com/toyota-confirms-mirai-hyrdogen-car-2020-release/

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Hydrogen drives zero-emissions tug

30 Sep 2019

A port operator and shipping company has taken an environmental leap of faith and ordered the world’s first hydrogen tug

Hydrogen could be a future fuel for harbour tugs as a green alternative to diesel and LNG. But it is relatively untested on vessels this size up to now. Hydrogen fuel does not producing carbon, sulphur or nitrogen oxides, making it an extremely clean fuel.

However, there are storage issues if it is liquefied for transportation; it can be highly explosive and flammable; and it does not have as high an energy content as diesel.

Nonetheless, some ports are determined to cut emissions and reduce their environmental footprint – for which hydrogen is a strong solution.

Port of Antwerp wants to be an environmental leader and is willing to support innovative projects. It has partnered with Belgium-headquartered shipping group Compagnie Maritime Belge (CMB) to build the world’s first hydrogen-powered tug.

Hydrotug will be unique when it is delivered as the first vessel with output in the 4,000-kW class to be powered by hydrogen-diesel dual fuel.

When burning hydrogen, it will have zero CO2 emissions. Being hybrid, it will sometimes burn diesel, perhaps as a top-up for short periods of towage. To mitigate pollution, this tug will have a particle filter and catalyser designed to minimise NOx emissions.

This is an important step for tugs, towage and marine services as Antwerp strives to become a sustainable, CO2-neutral port. For the future of port environments, let’s hope other ports will follow.

Hydrotug will be built within two years by CMB, which is a pioneer in the field of hydrogen power for shipping. Indeed, Hydrotug is integral to CMB’s environmental programme for its owned fleet.

CMB is using the most advanced environmentally friendly technologies available in its vessels as part of its pioneering role in transitioning shipping away from oil.

This started with Hydroville’s construction, a passenger shuttle ferry powered by hydrogen dual-fuel technology, providing sustainable commuter transport within the port area. CMB then started a joint venture with Windcat Workboats to develop a hydrogen-powered crew transfer vessel.

CMB’s hydrogen strategy includes partnering with Belgium engine builder ABC in the BeHydro joint venture, which aims to further develop the technology for medium-speed engines with higher power output. Engines currently under development have a power range of 0.8-2.8 MW and are available in 6, 8, 12 and 16 cylinder configurations.

Port environments will benefit from these first-adopters with other operators, authorities and shipping companies eagerly watching Hydrotug’s development.

It can be hoped that others will follow in these footsteps to help the whole shipping industry visualise a route towards IMO’s zero-emissions strategy.

https://www.rivieramm.com/opinion/hydrogen-has-a-future-for-tug-zero-emissions-56336

[TPX]

South Australia gives green light for hydrogen production facility

Sep 30, 2019

Homes in Adelaide, Australia are one step closer to being powered by renewable hydrogen following the South Australian Government’s approval for Australian Gas Networks (AGN) to install an electrolyser.

AGN, part of the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) revealed the news today and said the approval paved the way for construction to begin on the A$11.4m ($7.7m) hydrogen production facility – Hydrogen Park SA (HyP SA), with first production of hydrogen targeted for mid-2020.

Located in the Tonsley Innovation District, the facility will include a 1.25MW electrolyser, which will produce renewable hydrogen from electricity.

The renewable hydrogen will then be blended with natural gas and supplied to 710 customers in southern areas of Mitchell Park via the existing natural gas network.

AGN said renewable hydrogen will comprise no more than 5% of the total blended renewable gas volume and customers will not notice any difference in their gas supply.

AGN also said the characteristics of the blended 5% renewable gas are consistent with the Australian Standard for natural gas supply.

“This is a significant milestone in South Australia’s continuing transition to a cleaner energy future, AGN’s CEO Ben Wilson said.

“It propels the state’s status as a leader in renewable technology and a first mover in hydrogen.”

Wilson said the HyP SA project also represents the first towards decarbonising South Australia’s gas networks.

“The decarbonisation challenge is huge and many solutions are needed for Australia to meet its emission reduction targets, and that includes gas stepping up to play its part,” he said.

“Developing the hydrogen economy will also play a key role and the momentum around hydrogen is building with burgeoning research and development underway.”

“Commercial hydrogen production is achievable and can decarbonise Australia’s energy mix while at the same time accessing export markets.”

“Australia – including South Australia – is ideally placed for hydrogen export to North Asia.”

South Australia’s Minister for Energy and Mining, Dan van Holst Pellekaan, said the facility is a key component of the government’s plans for renewable hydrogen.

“The release of our Hydrogen Action Plan this week shows we’re committed to growing hydrogen exports from South Australia, creating jobs and pushing renewable hydrogen into our energy mix,” said the Minister.

“This is a significant step forward towards an affordable and reliable renewable energy future for South Australia.”

Whilst natural gas is already a low-carbon option for homes and businesses, the blending of renewable hydrogen provides an opportunity to reduce carbon emissions even further.

The new blended 5% renewable gas is not the first-time hydrogen has been used in Adelaide homes. Before natural gas pipelines were laid in the 1960s, Adelaide properties ran on ‘town gas’ which was manufactured from coal and typically comprised 50-60% hydrogen.

Hydrogen is already in use in parts of Europe as a blended residential gas for cooking, hot water and heating, varying between 10% and 20% of total gas content.

This project is a first step in AGN’s vision to deliver 100% renewable gas. AGN is also actively pursuing additional hydrogen projects with a view to blending more hydrogen into its South Australian and other Australian networks.

https://www.h2-view.com/story/south-australia-gives-green-light-for-hydrogen-production-facility/

[TPX]

“Hydrogen cars on the roads? Why not next year?”

30-09-2019

After years of Chinese subsidies for electric New Energy Vehicles, there’s a new kid on the block. The past period the Chinese government has set a clear next aim: hydrogen vehicles. After all, one of the long-standing issues of NEV’s is that they use electricity which hasn’t been generated in a clean way. As a result the calculated emissions of the ‘clean’ NEV’s can actually be higher than that of traditionally fueled vehicles. To explore how the Dutch expertise in the field of hydrogen can smoothen the transition, a hydrogen delegation led by the Commissioner of the King in Gelderland John Berends visited Wuhan and Rugao last week.

The Dutch province of Gelderland has a relationship of over 10 years already with the Province of Hubei, while Wuhan is a sister city of Arnhem. “Wuhan is quickly developing itself as one of the centers of hydrogen technology within China. Several special economic development zones focusing on the automotive and hydrogen sectors have been set up as incubators. Meanwhile, Dutch companies have already been developing niche expertise for years, which makes them interesting partners for the Chinese sector,” says Fons Lamboo, Chief Representative of the Netherlands Business Support Office in Wuhan.

“A clear eagerness to cooperate”
One of the factors which makes the Chinese market interesting is the scale. As Judith van de Bovenkamp, of mission initiator OostNL told Dutch newspaper De Stentor: “In the Netherlands, there are six buses fueled by hydrogen. In just Wuhan there’s already a pilot planned for 2000 such buses.” Government subsidies are an important incentive for the many Chinese businesses to enter the market. Meanwhile, the Netherlands already has expertise for the entire hydrogen chain, from production to delivery and use. “There’s a clear eagerness to cooperate,” many participants of the delegation mentioned. Three topics stood out in particular during the mission:

Green & Grey Hydrogen
One of the themes during the mission was the way hydrogen is produced. In China, much hydrogen is grey hydrogen, which uses natural gas as the basis and still produces in carbon dioxide during production. Meanwhile, the focus in the Netherlands is much more on production of green hydrogen, using clean energy to produce hydrogen from water. The Dutch Cleantech Region for instance aims to produce hydrogen by using waste heat. Meanwhile, VECO provides key solutions for electrolysis to produce green hydrogen.

Efficiency, lifetime and reach
For the participants of Bronkhorst, Hymove and Nedstack, interesting themes were the use of fuel cell related technology. Several of the Chinese companies visited during the mission were working on this, and there was a clear ambition to cooperate further in this field. Especially the long lifetime and efficiency of the products produced by the Dutch companies were a topic of interest for the Chinese companies. Several of the Chinese companies which were visited by the delegation already used parts or fuel cell stacks from the Dutch participants.

Transportation
A challenge when it comes to hydrogen is the safe transport and availability. Right now for instance, the Netherlands is home to only three hydrogen gas stations.The delegation visited two hydrogen gas stations in Wuhan focusing on cars and buses and another company focusing on introducing LOHC hydrogen stations. The advantage of the last is that it allows hydrogen to be transported in regular tank truck or even through pipes. It led to interesting discussions about for instance safety and efficiency with PitPoint, who build hydrogen gas stations in the Netherlands, and KIWA, who provide certification in the field of hydrogen.

The cherry on the cake
To truly get to know the players in the sector, the delegation visited the 5th Annual Fuel Cell Congress in Rugao. At this annual trade show Han Feenstra of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs gave a speech and introduced the Dutch hydrogen sector to the participants. For the delegation the Congress offered the perfect ending to the trade mission, providing plenty of networking opportunities.

Dutch policies on hydrogen
Hydrogen has been a focus topic for the Dutch industry for a long time already, as was stressed by Taake Manning, Counsellor for Innovation at the Netherlands Embassy in Beijing. "This makes for a highly developed sector, with leading experts in several fields to accelerate the implementation of hydrogen globally."

As part of the aim to become fully circular by 2050, the Netherlands’ government has set clear ambitions when it comes to hydrogen. The Dutch Energy Agreement for sustainable growth includes 40 involved companies and the Dutch government. Together, they have agreed to limit the use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gasses. By 2035, all newly sold private cars should drive emission-free.

https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/latest-news/news/2019/09/30/hydrogen-cars-on-the-roads-why-not-next-year

[mick]

THANK YOU $NLLSF

[TPX]

Twitter: We're pleased to announce we've received a grant from
@EnovaSF
for the development of an advanced production line for electrolysers. It's a strong signal from the government recognizing #hydrogen as an important #zeroemission energy carrier for the future!

We're pleased to announce we've received a grant from @EnovaSF for the development of an advanced production line for electrolysers. It's a strong signal from the government recognizing #hydrogen as an important #zeroemission energy carrier for the future!https://t.co/4YAjEa7J6w

— Nel Hydrogen (@nelhydrogen) September 26, 2019

[Welcome2Pinkyland]

$BOOM $$$ $NLLSF $$$

[TPX]

News! Press release: Awarded grant for development of an advanced pilot production line for electrolysers

(Oslo, 26 September 2019) Nel Hydrogen Electrolyser, a subsidiary of Nel ASA (Nel, OSE:NEL) today announces that the company has been awarded a grant of NOK 9.25 million from the Norwegian public enterprise Enova SF (“Enova”) for engineering and design improvements in connection to the establishment of the world’s largest, automated alkaline electrolyser production line at Herøya, Norway.

“Over the last year we have been looking into several aspects of our plans to expand our alkaline electrolyser manufacturing capacity, and have decided to raise the ambitions, now exploring the possibilities for an even more advanced and larger production line than first envisioned. We are very happy that Enova are supporting this work. The grant is also a strong signal from the government recognizing hydrogen as an important zero-emission energy carrier for the future. We really look forward to work with all stakeholders to realize this important project,” says Erik-Løkke Øwre, Vice President Operations of Nel Hydrogen Electrolyser.

Nel has been working with Enova SF, a Norwegian public enterprise responsible for the promotion of environmentally friendly production and consumption of energy, to optimize the development of the manufacturing plant and, was today awarded a grant for the first phase in the process of establishing a full-scale pilot production line.

The engineering phase for the advanced pilot production line will last until end of 2019, and if successful will continue into an execution phase, involving construction and operation of the production line from 2020 onwards.

https://nelhydrogen.com/press-release/press-release-awarded-grant-for-development-of-an-advanced-pilot-production-line-for-electrolysers/

[hebbeke47]

Sept 26 (Reuters) - Nel ASA NEL.OL : * PRESS RELEASE: AWARDED GRANT FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AN ADVANCED PILOT PRODUCTION LINE FOR ELECTROLYSERS * GRANT OF NOK 9.25 MILLION FROM NORWEGIAN PUBLIC ENTERPRISE ENOVA SF * NEL HYDROGEN ELECTROLYSER AWARDED A GRANT OF NOK 9.25 MILLION FROM NORWEGIAN PUBLIC ENTERPRISE ENOVA SF * ENGINEERING PHASE FOR ADVANCED PILOT PRODUCTION LINE WILL LAST UNTIL END OF 2019, AND IF SUCCESSFUL WILL CONTINUE INTO AN EXECUTION PHASE, INVOLVING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF PRODUCTION LINE FROM 2020 ONWARDS Source text for Eikon: ID:nWkr2Qg7Bm Further company coverage: NEL.OL (Gdynia Newsroom) (([e-mail]; [phone];))

[Golden Cross]

NLLSF Daily Chart

[TPX]

Twitter: At #H2EM2019 today, CEO @jonandrelokke presented plans for a GW production facility that will allow #renewable #hydrogen to become fully competitive with fossil hydrogen, challenging industry to, "Please, challenge us already now on price and capacity for your project!"

At #H2EM2019 today, CEO @jonandrelokke presented plans for a GW production facility that will allow #renewable #hydrogen to become fully competitive with fossil hydrogen, challenging industry to, "Please, challenge us already now on price and capacity for your project!" pic.twitter.com/ksChb3nmoO

— Nel Hydrogen (@nelhydrogen) September 25, 2019

[TPX]

Twitter: CEO @nelhydrogen @jonandrelokke at #H2EM2019: ‘all the analysts are completely underestimating the capability of industry to scale-up & drive down cost of electrolysers! We will do exactly the same as what happened with wind and solar!’

CEO @nelhydrogen @jonandrelokke at #H2EM2019: ‘all the analysts are completely underestimating the capability of industry to scale-up & drive down cost of electrolysers! We will do exactly the same as what happened with wind and solar!’ pic.twitter.com/2JCNBH6VRE

— Noé van Hulst (@noevanhulst) September 25, 2019

[TPX]

Arizona-based company to build hydrogen-powered semis and off-road vehicles

Published 3 hours ago

VIDEO: https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/arizona-based-company-to-build-hydrogen-powered-semis-and-off-road-vehicles

Arizona-based company to build hydrogen-powered semis and off-road vehicles
Unrest in a country thousands of miles away can cause fuel cost to spike overnight, wreaking havoc on companies trying to get their products to consumers. It's one of the most frustrating and costly aspects of running a business, which gets passed on to the consumer in the price they pay for products. The solution to that problem may be Nikola Motors, which is purportedly the first hydrogen-powered truckmaker in the world. FOX 10's Kari Lake reports.

PHOENIX - Unrest in a country thousands of miles away can cause fuel cost to spike overnight, wreaking havoc on companies trying to get their products to consumers.

It's one of the most frustrating and costly aspects of running a business, which gets passed on to the consumer in the price they pay for products. The solution to that problem may be Nikola Motors, which is purportedly the first hydrogen-powered truckmaker in the world.

[TPX]

Norway hosts Maritime Hydrogen and Marine Energy Conference

Sep 24, 2019

Last week world hydrogen leaders from 19 nations gathered together in Florø, Norway, for the fourth annual Maritime Hydrogen and Marnie Energy Conference.

Over 160 participants attended the event to discuss global issues and new technical possibilities and challenges in maritime hydrogen and marine energy.

The two-day event was filled with speakers discussing all aspects of the hydrogen value chain. Building the first hydrogen-electric ferry, Zero Emission Ship Technology Association: The roar of the tide of change, and Climate Change: Today’s most important variable on Maritime Businesses were just a few of the sessions offered at the conference.

Fire and explosion consultant Gexcon also spoke at the event, discussing hydrogen safety and the recent hydrogen refuelling station explosion in Sandvika near Oslo, Norway.

Discussing the event, Allan Dale from the University of Prince Edward Island, said, “It [the event] really provides a great opportunity to connect the dots between industry partners, Government officials, and in my case, academic officials.”

Conference attendees had the opportunity to network with each other at an evening dinner, enabling them to form relationships and discuss the crucial steps towards achieving the energy transition.

As a whole, Norway is in a prime location for leading the global energy transition to electrification and use of hydrogen. The West Coast of Norway showcases clean energy in the form of hydro, wind, wave and stable tidal currents that can be used to produce green hydrogen to fuel boats.

https://www.h2-view.com/story/norway-hosts-maritime-hydrogen-and-marine-energy-conference/

[TPX]

New report details Australia’s huge potential for hydrogen

September 25, 2019,

Geoscience Australia has released a new report which identifies and maps regions that have high potential for hydrogen production.

The report has found that:

Every state and territory has regions that are highly prospective for hydrogen production
Over 200,000 square kilometres of land is highly prospective for renewables based hydrogen production
The study considered low emissions hydrogen production methods, including:

Hydrogen production from electrolysis using renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydro
Fossil fuel-derived hydrogen coupled with carbon capture and storage (CSS)
These production methods require proximity to different resources. Renewable energy resources, grid access and water are important for electrolysis; gas, coal, water and carbon storage sites are critical for CCS hydrogen.

Geoscience Australia prepared the report to inform the National Hydrogen Strategy. It is currently developing an online tool that will enable potential investors, state governments and other stakeholders to assess regions in more detail.

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Matt Canavan, said, “We have the resources, know-how, infrastructure and research base to produce and supply clean hydrogen to the world, and this report shows every Australian state and territory has regions with excellent prospects for hydrogen production.

“There are more than 200,000 square kilometres of land rated as having great prospects for supporting renewable hydrogen production, confirming our potential for hydrogen production.”

The Minister has also signed a Letter of Intent that Australia will collaborate with South Korea and develop a Hydrogen Action Plan by the end of the year.

“I’ll be using my time in South Korea to promote our outstanding potential as a hydrogen supplier with the South Korean Government and company executives. I’ll explain how Australia has been investing heavily in hydrogen projects and outline our National Hydrogen Strategy, which will map out the steps we can take to develop a sustainable and commercial hydrogen industry.”

Under the Letter of Intent with South Korea, the planned Hydrogen Action Plan will promote hydrogen cooperation under existing energy and resources bilateral agreements.

Minister Canavan will further reinforce Australia’s capacity to grow its hydrogen sector when he addresses the Hydrogen Energy Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo.

Energy and Emission Reduction Minister, Angus Taylor, welcomed the findings of the report and said hydrogen was uniquely placed to provide reliable power through storage and transport of energy.

“Hydrogen has the potential to be a major new industry over coming decades, similar to the scale of the LNG industry in Australia. The development of our hydrogen resources could also create new Australian jobs and an export industry valued in the billions,” Minister Taylor said.

“The Government has already invested more than $140 million into hydrogen projects, partnering with industry to develop tangible solutions that are important for bringing down energy prices while keeping the lights on for Australian households and small businesses.”

The National Hydrogen Strategy is expected to be released by the end of 2019.

https://www.energymagazine.com.au/new-report-details-australias-huge-potential-for-hydrogen/

[TPX]

South Australia looks to take lead in green hydrogen race

September 25, 2019

South Australia’s abundance of renewable energy gives it an ideal platform to become a leading global exporter of certified green hydrogen, according to Premier Steven Marshall.

The amount of wind and solar energy produced during peak production periods in South Australia regularly outstrips demand to the point where excess renewable energy is shed.

The State Government has released its Hydrogen Action Plan in a bid to use that cheap renewable energy to generate hydrogen, which can be used as fuel or to generate electricity at a later time and place.

South Australian Premier Steven Marshall used his opening address at the International Conference on Hydrogen Safety at the Adelaide Convention Centre yesterday to launch the plan.

He said while other jurisdictions were looking at non-renewable hydrogen as a steppingstone to renewable hydrogen, South Australia was well placed to move straight to certified renewable hydrogen.

“In doing so, South Australia can be a trusted, long-term trading partner who shares the values of the hydrogen economy,” Premier Marshall said.

“We are ready to go on renewable green hydrogen and to develop a clean and safe hydrogen supply chain in South Australia, which gives confidence to consumers and investors.

“Green hydrogen will fast move from being an alternative fuel to being a mainstream zero carbon fuel, becoming increasingly cost competitive with traditional generation.”

Commercial green hydrogen is typically produced from water using an electrolyser – powered by renewable energy – to break the bond between hydrogen and oxygen and release them as gas. The hydrogen gas can then be burned to produce clean energy.

Four key hydrogen projects are already underway in South Australia, utilising $17 million in government grants and $25 million in loans. They include:

An $11.4 million hydrogen park at the Tonsley Innovation District south of Adelaide to build a 1.25MW electrolyser as the first Australian demonstration project of its scale and size. By mid 2020 small quantities of renewable hydrogen will be produced and blended into the local gas distribution network.
An $8.7 million facility at the University of South Australia’s Mawson Lakes campus incorporating a solar installation, flow batteries, a hydrogen fuel storage cell stack and thermal energy storage to demonstrate the value of hydrogen storage paired with other new storage technologies.
H2U is developing a 30MW water electrolysis facility near Port Lincoln using wind and solar to generate up to 18,000 tonnes of green ammonia a year to supply local agriculture and industrial sectors. The plant will also feature two 16 MW open-cycle gas turbines operating 100 per cent on hydrogen at the site to provide electricity generation to the grid during periods of low wind or solar output.
Neoen Australia is investigating the introduction of a 50MW hydrogen super hub to produce about 25,000kg of hydrogen a day at its proposed Crystal Brook Energy Park in the Mid North of the South Australia.
One third of South Australian homes have rooftop solar, which, when added to the state’s 22 major wind farms and three large scale solar PV producers, often supply more than 100 per cent of the state’s daytime demand. The state also has more than 40 further wind and solar projects under construction or in development.

This has sparked a greater focus on energy storage and interconnection with other states.

Premier Marshall said South Australia was on track to reach 90 per cent renewable energy generation in the mid 2020s and become a net renewable energy exporter in the 2030s.

“In this scenario, storage technologies such as hydrogen are extremely attractive to our state and as a large state in area with remote communities, prospective mineral regions and long transport routes, hydrogen is an exciting, flexible fuel for the future,” he said.

“We are focused absolutely on making sure that consumers are protected and that the transition is orderly and affordable.

“We’ve heard loud and clear our traditional trading partners signalling their enormous ambitions for hydrogen and we want to deepen our existing relationships by together demonstrating and growing a hydrogen economy.”

South Australia was the first Australian jurisdiction to develop a plan to accelerate a hydrogen economy with the release in 2017 of a Hydrogen Roadmap. Last year, Australia’s national science research agency CSIRO released its National Hydrogen Roadmap and several other states have also since released their own plans.

“Since South Australia’s strategy was launched there has been considerable momentum here and internationally, now we’re ready to take the next steps to accelerate transition from a roadmap to a plan of action,” Premier Marshall said.

“We are at ground zero for this transition.”

The 2019 International Conference on Hydrogen Safety this week is the first time the event has been hosted in Australia and has attracted hundreds of delegates from 22 nations.

Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel told the opening session yesterday Australia had a proud history of using hydrogen.

In 2005, using energy from wind turbines, and through the process of electrolysis, the Australian Antarctic Division was able to generate renewable hydrogen in Antarctica and transport it in cylinders using a hydrogen-powered quad bike.

The hydrogen was then used to power the everyday activities of Australia’s Antarctic scientists on Mawson Station – fuelling cooking stoves and generating electricity to run heaters, lights and computers.

“What a staggering feat of ingenuity – proving that even in the coldest, darkest, most-hostile continent on Earth, where special materials and construction techniques are often required, hydrogen energy can be safely and effectively harnessed for human benefit,” Dr Frankel said.

“Decades of experience and continuing progress in technologies have shown that hydrogen power is reliable and secure.

“I am confident that this record can be maintained as we seek to open new frontiers and expand our energy horizons.”

The President of the International Association for Hydrogen Safety (HySafe) Stuart Hawksworth told the conference that for hydrogen to realise it’s full potential as an energy solution it needed to be seen as safe.

He said global collaboration on hydrogen safety was needed on an open international stage.

“In just the past two years, the pace at which new hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel applications have emerged is indicative of just how important this fuel source can be for the future, including increasing reliance on renewable energy sources,” Hawksworth said.

“Clearly, it is also a fuel with enormous clean energy export potential as countries all over the world seek to increase renewables in their total energy mix.

“However, we need to prove up our social licence around hydrogen’s safety and all the issues around that.”

Geoscience Australia’s yesterday also released a report today showing prospective hydrogen production regions of Australia. This map showed many parts of South Australia as being highly suitable for hydrogen production and export.

https://indaily.com.au/news/2019/09/25/south-australia-looks-to-take-lead-in-green-hydrogen-race/

[TPX]

Twitter: Proud to work together with @hybrit_project to realize this massive emission reduction potential!

Proud to work together with @hybrit_project to realize this massive emission reduction potential! https://t.co/ju9SvKyYs6

— Bjørn Simonsen (@bjornsimonsen) September 24, 2019

[TPX]

Twitter: We're at Hydrogen Fuel Cells North America. Come visit us for a chance to talk #hydrogen with Steve Szymanski or one of our other expert colleagues! https://www.solarpowerinternational.com/hydrogen/
@SPIConvention

We're at Hydrogen Fuel Cells North America. Come visit us for a chance to talk #hydrogen with Steve Szymanski or one of our other expert colleagues!https://t.co/06EDRqFgD8@SPIConvention pic.twitter.com/E2SZS5aWFa

— Nel Hydrogen (@nelhydrogen) September 24, 2019

[TPX]

Australian state aims to take lead in global green hydrogen race

Wind- and solar-rich South Australia plans to export the clean energy source to fuel Japan and South Korea's planned hydrogen economies

24 September 2019

The state of South Australia has announced plans to supply huge quantities of green hydrogen to Asian countries including Japan and South Korea, which have both said they want to import the emissions-free fuel at scale over the coming decades.

“Green hydrogen will fast move from being an alternative fuel to being a mainstream zero-carbon fuel, becoming increasingly cost-competitive with traditional generation,” said South Australia premier Steven Marshall as he unveiled the state’s Hydrogen Action Plan in Adelaide.

“We’ve heard loud and clear our traditional trading partners signalling their enormous ambitions for hydrogen and we want to deepen our existing relationships by together demonstrating and growing a hydrogen economy.”

South Korea’s hydrogen roadmap calls for an annual supply of 5.26 million tonnes of hydrogen by 2040, including the establishment of an “overseas production base to stabilise hydrogen production, import, supply and demand”.

Japan also plans to create a hydrogen economy based largely on imports of H2, with the use of the gas increasing from 200 tonnes to 300,000 tonnes by 2030, and the development of international hydrogen supply chains “including Australia”.

The International Energy Agency estimates that in 2030, it will be cheaper for Japan to import clean hydrogen from Australia than producing the gas itself.

Japan is also planning to unveil the world’s first liquid hydrogen carrier vessel, built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, ahead of next year’s Tokyo Olympics.

Premier Marshall said that while other jurisdictions were looking at non-renewable hydrogen as a stepping stone to renewables hydrogen, South Australia is well placed to move straight to certified green hydrogen.

“We are ready to go on renewable green hydrogen and to develop a clean and safe hydrogen supply chain in South Australia,” he said.

There are four green-hydrogen pilot projects under way in South Australia, which together have received A$17m in government grants and A$25m in loans.

Sparsely populated South Australia currently gets about half of its electricity from wind and solar, and is on track to reach 90% renewables in the mid-2020s, before becoming a net green-energy exporter in the 2030s.

The state’s Hydrogen Action Plan is light on details, but includes five “action themes” to achieve its green-hydrogen ambitions that will be monitored by its Hydrogen Economy Steering Committee: 1) Facilitating investments in hydrogen infrastructure; 2) Establishing a world-class regulatory framework; 3) deepening trade relationships and supply capabilities; 4) Fostering innovation and workforce skills development; and 5) “Integrating hydrogen into our energy system”.

https://www.rechargenews.com/transition/1854351/australian-state-aims-to-take-lead-in-global-green-hydrogen-race

[TPX]

Hyundai to test hydrogen trucks in Israel in 2020

2019-09-24

JERUSALEM, Sept. 24 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's biggest automaker Hyundai Motor will perform a large-scale experiment on hydrogen-powered trucks in 2020, business website Calcalist reported Tuesday.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles have existed for about 50 years but have never entered serial production on a substantial scale, given the high availability and relatively low cost of gasoline and diesel fuel.

Due to the significant worsening in recent years in global environmental regulations, several manufacturers, including Honda and Toyota, started producing hydrogen-powered cars.

Israel is a suitable place for Hyundai's tests, given the road and weather conditions, including extreme heat in the Dead Sea region, steep slope roads in the northern Galilee region, and prolonged durability tests in carrying heavy cargo on the Arava road in southeastern Israel.

According to the report, a senior delegation of Hyundai Motor recently visited Israel, meeting with officials at the Israeli Prime Minister's Office to advance the experiment.

Ahead of the experiment, the Israeli Ministry of Energy is expected to release a call for proposals for setting refueling stations of hydrogen produced from natural gas.

According to the report, the tests will be conducted by Taavura Group, Israel's largest road haulage and logistics company, in collaboration with Colmobil Group which exclusively represents Hyundai Motors in Israel.

Hyundai has already introduced a hydrogen truck that started operating this year in Europe, with a 400-km driving range and 7-minute hydrogen refueling.

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-09/24/c_138418422.htm

[TPX]

Twitter: We were happy to host the Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Kjell-Børge Freiberg, and Notodden Mayor, Gry Fuglestveit Bløchlinger, at our facilities in Notodden today. Looking forward to further discussions on the role #hydrogen will play for Norway and Norwegian industry!

We were happy to host the Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Kjell-Børge Freiberg, and Notodden Mayor, Gry Fuglestveit Bløchlinger, at our facilities in Notodden today. Looking forward to further discussions on the role #hydrogen will play for Norway and Norwegian industry! pic.twitter.com/poAdeK74pB

— Nel Hydrogen (@nelhydrogen) September 24, 2019