Adrian JohnsonTLDR:
- Thyssenkrupp nucera and Fraunhofer Institute partner on SOEC technology for large-scale hydrogen production.
- Pilot plant for high-temperature electrolysis stacks with SOE cells to start operation in 2025.
Thyssenkrupp and Fraunhofer have joined forces to advance solid oxide electrolyzer cell (SOEC) technology for large-scale hydrogen production. Thyssenkrupp nucera will enhance its technology portfolio with innovative high-temperature electrolysis from Fraunhofer IKTS. The strategic partnership aims to industrialize this electrolysis technology, with a pilot plant set to start operation in 2025. This collaboration includes a license for CFY stacks production based on Fraunhofer IKTS technology. SOEC technology utilizes ceramic electrolytes for efficiency, long-term stability, and cost-effective production. The partnership will focus on upscaling production based on research and development activities. This move aligns with Thyssenkrupp’s growth strategy in offering a powerful, CO2-free energy technology for the future.
Werner Ponikwar, CEO of thyssenkrupp nucera, highlighted the significance of SOEC system solutions in achieving a climate-friendly energy mix without fossil fuels. The high energy efficiency of SOEC technology benefits industries producing industrial waste heat, reducing electricity consumption. Thyssenkrupp nucera aims to expand its hydrogen product portfolio with this partnership, complementing their existing technology. The collaboration not only enhances efficiency in electricity-to-hydrogen conversion but also supports the extraction of CO2 for green synthesis gas production.
In 2023, thyssenkrupp nucera was floated on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, signaling growth in the hydrogen market. The IPO gross proceeds of around €526 million will support the company’s expansion efforts. Thyssenkrupp nucera boasts an order backlog of €1.4 billion, including projects with a total installed electrolysis capacity exceeding 3 GW. These projects, such as electrolysis plants in Saudi Arabia and Sweden, further solidify thyssenkrupp nucera’s position in the hydrogen market.