On January 29, 2024, Baker Hughes, a leading energy technology firm, unveiled several significant advancements to bolster the hydrogen economy, reflecting the company’s commitment to new energy solutions. These developments were highlighted at the 24th Baker Hughes Annual Meeting in Florence, Italy, showcasing progress in hydrogen technology, successful execution of hydrogen projects, and the establishment of new partnerships in the sector.
Key milestones announced include the launch of a state-of-the-art Hydrogen Testing Facility in Florence, Italy. This facility is designed for the validation of Baker Hughes’ NovaLT™ industrial turbines capable of operating on up to 100% hydrogen blends. Equipped with a test bench for full-load testing, the facility boasts complete fuel flexibility, a 300-bar pressure capacity, and 2,450 kg of hydrogen storage. This initiative underscores Baker Hughes’ commitment to safety and operational excellence, offering customers reliable turbine testing under diverse project conditions and fostering collaboration within the hydrogen economy.
Moreover, Baker Hughes completed the manufacturing and testing of its NovaLT™16 hydrogen turbines for Air Products’ Net-Zero Hydrogen Energy Complex in Edmonton, Canada. The turbines, tested at the new Hydrogen Testing Facility, are versatile for various industrial applications, enhancing combined heat and power systems, pipeline operations, and gas storage.
The company also highlighted its contribution to Air Products’ NEOM project in Saudi Arabia, delivering the first two sets of advanced hydrogen compression solutions. The NEOM project, recognized as the world’s largest green hydrogen project, benefits from Baker Hughes’ expanded manufacturing capabilities in Modon, Saudi Arabia, facilitating the localized delivery of projects like NEOM with tailored testing and packaging solutions.
Dr. Samir J. Serhan, COO of Air Products, praised Baker Hughes’ technological expertise and its pivotal role in executing major low- and zero-carbon hydrogen projects globally. These collaborative efforts aim to drive the energy transition and achieve net-zero objectives.
Expanding its collaborative horizon, Baker Hughes entered into an agreement with HyET for the development and commercialization of an advanced hydrogen compression solution. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding with Green Energy Park aims to explore collaborative opportunities across the green hydrogen value chain, including production, storage, transportation, and utilization of green hydrogen and ammonia-based fuels.
Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes, emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration in achieving net-zero goals. He highlighted the transformation of customer relationships into dynamic partnerships, fostering innovation across various projects and validating the hydrogen economy’s potential.
Baker Hughes’ contribution to the hydrogen value chain encompasses a comprehensive range of technologies and solutions, from production to utilization. With a rich history dating back to the 1910s in hydrogen projects, the company’s portfolio includes advanced compressors, turbines, valves, and diagnostic tools for hydrogen embrittlement, among others. This broad spectrum of offerings positions Baker Hughes as a key player in promoting green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source for the future.
