Siemens Energy has secured a contract from German utility EWE to deliver a 280-megawatt electrolysis system for a new plant in Emden, Germany. Set to commence operations in 2027, this plant is a pivotal component of EWE’s ambitious “Clean Hydrogen Coastline” project. It is expected to produce up to 26,000 tons of green hydrogen annually, catering to various industrial applications within the region.
The initiative could significantly reduce carbon emissions, potentially avoiding approximately 800,000 tons of CO2 annually in industries like steel production by substituting fossil fuels with green hydrogen. This development aligns with broader efforts to ramp up the green hydrogen industry in Germany, following the German government and the European Commission’s endorsement of the project as a strategic “Important Project of Common European Interest” (IPCEI).
In addition to the electrolyzer, the comprehensive project includes other essential components like compressors and cooling systems, drawing an average power consumption of 320 megawatts throughout its lifespan. EWE and Siemens Energy have also entered into a decade-long service agreement for the plant’s maintenance.
“This project marks a crucial step in the expansion of the green hydrogen sector in Germany,” commented Anne-Laure de Chammard, a board member at Siemens Energy. She emphasized the timely contractual conclusion with EWE following the recent government funding approvals, showcasing the industry’s readiness to implement significant green initiatives rapidly.
EWE CEO Stefan Dohler noted that the utility’s comprehensive involvement in hydrogen—from production to transportation and storage—underscores its commitment to regional and national economic value. “After a rigorous twelve-month evaluation of ten global electrolysis manufacturers, we are pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with Siemens Energy,” said Dohler, highlighting the strategic collaboration in enhancing Germany’s energy infrastructure.
The plant will utilize Siemens Energy’s PEM technology, which is ideal for renewable energy operations due to its flexible operation capabilities. This technology efficiently splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using a proton exchange membrane. The core components, or stacks, of the electrolyzers will be produced at Siemens Energy’s new gigawatt factory in Berlin.
