Thuringian counties on the way to becoming a hydrogen region

To develop an overall concept on the potentials of a regional, green hydrogen economy in the Wartburgkreis and the Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis - this is the objective of the HyExperts project. To this end, the following points are being examined in the context of a feasibility study:

• existing and new sites for renewable energies and hydrogen production by electrolysis
• logistics concept for distribution, storage and supply of hydrogen
• requirements and application areas in the mobility sector (public transport, logistics, intralogistics, aviation) as well as in the industries and heating sector

Fraunhofer UMSICHT's work focuses on modeling an overall energy system and formulating recommendations for action and implementation. Specifically, the scientists compare tools that can be used to economically evaluate both potential projects and hydrogen production costs and select a tool that is suitable for the region. They are also building an agent-based model of the local energy system. The goal of the model is the representation of a viable development paths to a regional hydrogen economy along the entire hydrogen value chain – from production over distribution to consumption in the two counties. The researchers are also considering available battery storage options and their impact on electrolysers. Finally, based on the findings, recommendations for action and implementation will be formulated for the short-term as well as strategic establishment of a green hydrogen economy in the region. 

The results of the energy system modeling show that the Wartburgkreis and Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis regions have great potential for the use of hydrogen. The decentralized production of hydrogen proves to be feasible according to the results of energy system modelling. A decentralized system could serve as a temporary solution until a supra-regional pipeline structure is in place. The expansion of renewable energy plants and the expansion of the electrical grid are obstacles. On the consumer side, in-depth analyses are advisable in order to further examine the economic viability of using decentrally produced hydrogen. The results provide a basis for these analyses.

The detailed results and recommendations for action for stakeholders (state and local politicians and administration | users, investors and operators) can be found in the overall concept for the development of a regional, green hydrogen economy (German document).

• Triveda GmbH
• EurA AG