German Chancellor Olaf Scholz inaugurated the production of hydrogen electrolyzers at the old Siemens Energy turbine plant, marking the beginning of “multi-gigawatt-scale” production. The initiative aligns with the German government’s strategy for a carbon-neutral and secure energy supply, aiming to have Siemens gas turbines running on 100% hydrogen by 2030.
Siemens Energy, in collaboration with the French company Air Liquide, is combining their hydrogen expertise to produce powerful electrolyzers for hydrogen on a gigawatt scale at the Berlin-Moabit turbine plant. These electrolyzers will be manufactured using 100% renewable energy. The plan includes transitioning Siemens gas turbines to run entirely on hydrogen by 2030, with Siemens Energy and Air Liquide aiming for at least three gigawatts of electrolysis capacity by 2025.
The twelve electrolyzers designated for Air Liquide are expected to produce 28,000 tons of hydrogen, saving 250,000 tons of CO2 emissions previously generated by industrial processes or transportation.
The hydrogen electrolysis process involves separating water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity and specialized membranes. The newly opened factory in Berlin assembles these electrolysis cells into fully functional modules. The mass production of these powerful electrolyzers is crucial for more cost-effective hydrogen production, a key element for a carbon-free future.
The German government, through its National Hydrogen Strategy and adjusted regulations, aims to establish a hydrogen economy. Chancellor Scholz announced a goal to build ten gigawatts of electrolysis capacity by 2030, doubling the current capacity. He expressed confidence, stating, “The start of the new gigafactory by Siemens Energy strengthens my belief: ‘We can achieve this together.’”
Chancellor Scholz emphasized that the transformation to a carbon-neutral industrial nation would not lead to the loss of industries, debunking claims that Germany and Europe would lose their industries due to the energy transition.
Siemens Energy’s investment in the Berlin-Moabit turbine plant, including relocating the corporate headquarters, reflects their commitment to growth driven by excellent structures and opportunities in hydrogen electrolyzers and turbines, according to Chancellor Scholz.
Green hydrogen, produced without carbon emissions, is set to play a crucial role in the global energy transition and achieving climate goals. Hydrogen is expected to replace gas and coal in power plants, as well as in the chemical and steel industries. Moreover, hydrogen can be used to power turbines, airplanes, and trains in an environmentally friendly manner.
The German government’s plans for a hydrogen backbone network are nearly finalized, connecting all major production and consumption centers in Germany with storage facilities, power plants, and European import corridors by 2032.
Given Germany’s insufficient renewable energy capacity for green hydrogen, the government is prioritizing international collaboration with countries such as France, Canada, and African states. Plans for hydrogen pipelines and networks across the European continent are underway.
To support businesses in transitioning to carbon-free production processes and products, the government is providing assistance in the form of climate protection contracts and various programs to establish large-scale hydrogen production. Substantial EU funding is also available for major projects.
https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/aktuelles/wasserstoff-siemens-energy-2235500