Electrolysers: The Key to the Hydrogen Revolution
The energy transition is in full swing, and hydrogen plays an undeniable role in it.
The government recognises the strategic importance of hydrogen in the energy transition and actively supports its development. This is evident from a recent parliamentary letter [1] by Minister Sophie Hermans and State Secretary Chris Jansen. The cabinet emphasises four pillars: clear legislation and regulations, reliable infrastructure, scaling up of import and production, and a robust policy framework for low-carbon hydrogen.
Investing in Hydrogen Production
This vision highlights the need to invest in hydrogen production. By scaling up electrolyser technology, the Netherlands can not only achieve its climate goals but also strengthen its international position as a leader in sustainable technology. The production of hydrogen starts with efficient electrolysers. The NXTGEN Hightech growth fund programme is working on various projects to improve different electrolyser technologies. The aim is to enable Dutch companies to secure unique positions in the international hydrogen value chain.
In this article, you will learn more about the role of electrolysers in hydrogen production, the various focus technologies, challenges and innovations, and how NXTGEN Hightech contributes to a sustainable future.
[1] https://www.eerstekamer.nl/behandeling/20241210/brief_regering_voortgang/document3/f=/vmj34pk325yj.pdf
What are electrolysers and why are they important?
Hydrogen is not a natural resource; it must be produced. One of the most sustainable ways to do this is through electrolysis. Electrolysers split water (H₂O) into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) using electricity. By using renewable electricity – for example, from solar or wind farms – this process can be entirely sustainable.
The possibilities for electrolysers are diverse. Think of offshore applications, where hydrogen is produced directly at the source, or industrial settings where fossil fuels are replaced by clean energy. Each application requires specific technology and tailored solutions.
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Different types of electrolysers
Electrolysers come in various shapes and sizes. The choice of electrolyser depends on the application, energy source, and operational requirements. Here are the key technologies that NXTGEN Hightech in the Netherlands is focusing on:
PEM Electrolysers
Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysers are highly flexible and suitable for variable energy inputs, such as from wind farms. However, they rely on rare materials like iridium, making production expensive. Nevertheless, they are ideal for situations where flexibility is crucial.Alkaline Electrolysers
Alkaline technology is robust and proven. These electrolysers are often used in industrial environments with a stable power supply. Although less flexible than PEM electrolysers, they are more cost-effective.Solid Oxide Electrolysers (SOE)
This technology uses high temperatures (approximately 500–800 °C) and waste heat, making the process extremely efficient. Although not yet fully commercial, SOE offers promising potential for applications involving industrial heat.
In addition to these established systems, innovative technological solutions are under development, such as:
AEM Electrolysers (Anion Exchange Membrane): Ideal for small-scale applications, such as business parks or decentralised energy networks.
CO2 Electrolysers: This technology uses CO2 as a feedstock, producing hydrogen and other products like methanol. It not only avoids CO2 emissions but actively removes CO2 from the atmosphere.
Challenges and innovations
The current generation of electrolysers faces challenges. High costs, reliance on rare materials, and limited production volumes hinder large-scale adoption. Innovations focus on more efficient designs, sustainable materials, and economies of scale.
Experts expect significant advancements in the coming years. For instance, the second generation of electrolysers already demonstrates improved efficiency. In the NXTGEN Project 7, ‘Phoenix Alkalina’, led by VDL Hydrogen Systems, the goal is to reduce the CAPEX of H2 converter systems through a modular platform concept and efficient production methods. This approach enables the cost-effective production of diverse systems.
The third generation of electrolysers is expected to introduce fundamentally new designs and technologies that will transform the market. NXTGEN Project 8, ‘Third Generation Electrolysers’, led by TNO, focuses on radically redesigning electrolysers. By employing advanced nanotechnologies and customised microstructures, the project aims to achieve optimal process efficiency. This strategy significantly reduces energy and material consumption, as well as costs.
Electrolysers: The backbone of a green future
Electrolysers form the foundation of the hydrogen economy. They enable the conversion of green energy into a versatile and clean energy carrier. From large-scale industrial applications to decentralised solutions, electrolysers make sustainable hydrogen production and the replacement of fossil fuels possible.
With the Netherlands as a leader in innovation and determination to meet climate goals, the future of electrolysers looks promising. Collaboration between businesses, knowledge and research institutions, the government, and partners like industry platforms and associations is essential to further develop this technology and achieve the ambitions for 2030.
This is why the work carried out in the NXTGEN Hightech Energy projects is so important. Electrolysers are not just a piece of technology; they are the heart of the hydrogen revolution.