The electrolysis plant is a key component of EWE’s ambitious hydrogen initiative known as the “Clean Hydrogen Coastline”, comprising four sub-projects. At the core of the Emden hydrogen production facility is the electrolyzer, which, including essential components like compressors and cooling systems, will average 320 megawatts of power consumption over its operational lifespan. EWE and Siemens Energy have also entered into a ten-year service agreement alongside supplying the electrolyzer.
This project has been recognized by the German government and the European Commission as a strategic initiative eligible for funding under the IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest) framework. Last week, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection handed over the funding decision to EWE, facilitating the immediate commencement of the project upon contract signing.
“This project is pivotal for advancing Germany’s green hydrogen sector,” states Anne-Laure de Chammard, Member of the Executive Board of Siemens Energy. “With the confirmed funding, the German government has provided the final piece needed to realize such strategically important large-scale projects. The swift signing of the contract with EWE underscores the industry’s readiness to swiftly execute these initiatives.”
Stefan Dohler, CEO of EWE, emphasizes their comprehensive involvement across the hydrogen value chain, from production through to transportation and storage. “By selecting north-west Germany and partnering with Siemens Energy, we are prioritizing both regional and national economic contributions,” Dohler explains. After an exhaustive twelve-month selection process involving ten global electrolyzer manufacturers, EWE opted for Siemens Energy. “Collaborating with Siemens Energy on hydrogen is particularly gratifying given our longstanding partnership across all facets of our energy infrastructure,” Dohler adds.
Siemens Energy’s electrolyzer utilizes PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) technology, employing electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This technology is highly compatible with renewable energy sources due to its flexible ramp-up capabilities. The heart of these electrolyzers, the stacks, are produced in Siemens Energy’s new gigawatt factory in Berlin.
