Hydrogenium
Initial Situation
Hydrogen is a crucial element for many industrial sectors in achieving climate neutrality, simultaneously reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The establishment of a hydrogen economy is accelerating due to the current supply crisis, particularly amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. To enhance resilience, the expansion of a green hydrogen value chain network and the development of an overarching transportation network must be vigorously pursued. The national hydrogen strategy, alongside its EU counterpart, has garnered significant attention and is integral to achieving climate neutrality by 2050. In Baden-Württemberg, a hydrogen roadmap has been presented. Green hydrogen, being independent of fossil fuels, offers the opportunity to reduce the need for gas and oil imports, enhancing autonomy in the energy sector at national and regional levels.
Project Aim
The primary objective of this project is to support the establishment of a hydrogen economy, using the Heilbronn-Franken region as a model. This region, characterized by a robust economy and a mix of large corporations and SMEs, requires tailored support for its energy transition.
At the DLR site in Lampoldshausen, a test and application center is to be established to support companies in the development and testing of hydrogen technologies. The emerging test field offers the opportunity for industry, research, and development to test, further develop, and conduct regulatory trials for liquid hydrogen-based systems and components. In addition to LH2 testing procedures, the project also provides consulting and training opportunities for companies, municipalities, scientific institutions, and other organizations interested in contributing to the energy transition through hydrogen applications. Through these hands-on development and transfer activities, as well as project-based consulting services, contributions are made to energy self-sufficiency and supply security in Baden-Württemberg, while pursuing the European Commission's goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
Realization
During the project, scientific tools and consulting services will be developed to facilitate SMEs, municipal enterprises, and municipalities' access to hydrogen-based solutions. Hydrogen logistics processes will be analyzed to design a hydrogen logistics network. The resulting recommendations will inform consulting and educational efforts, reducing uncertainties and facilitating the transition to a hydrogen economy. Additionally, a toolbox will be created and tailored for SMEs and municipal entities, promoting hydrogen acceptance, identifying skill gaps, and supporting decision-making through simulations. Tools for identifying and developing hydrogen-based business model innovations will be developed to provide targeted consultation to businesses and municipalities on transitioning to a hydrogen economy.
Value
The project provides a testing infrastructure for the evaluation of new hydrogen and fuel cell technology as well as a platform for knowledge transfer and consultancy for companies and municipalities.
The planned activities contribute significantly to innovations regarding ecological and economic sustainability, as well as social sustainability. Thus, Hydrogenium makes a significant contribution to the future fields of Baden-Württemberg, particularly resource efficiency, energy transition, and sustainable mobility.
Project Partners
- Technische Universität München
- Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR)
- Fraunhofer-Institut für Arbeitswirtschaft und Organisation IAO
- Hochschule Heilbronn
Additional Information
Contact