BASF Commissions Germany's Largest PEM Electrolyzer for Green Hydrogen Production
Key Ideas
- BASF has commissioned Germany's largest proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer, located at the Ludwigshafen site, with an annual capacity of 8,000 metric tons of zero-carbon hydrogen.
- The facility, developed in cooperation with Siemens Energy, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 72,000 metric tons per year at BASF's main plant, contributing to climate targets.
- The project received funding of €124.3 million, with significant support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, showcasing a commitment to decarbonization and hydrogen technology.
- BASF plans to utilize the green hydrogen as chemical feedstock and to support the development of a hydrogen economy in the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region for a sustainable industrial future.
BASF, a German multinational chemical company, has commissioned Germany's largest proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer at its Ludwigshafen site. The 54-MW facility has an annual capacity of 8,000 metric tons of zero-carbon hydrogen, produced using renewable energy resources. The electrolyzer, constructed in partnership with Siemens Energy, is designed to supply the main plant with up to one metric ton of chemical feedstock per hour and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 72,000 metric tons per year.
The hydrogen produced is integrated into BASF's hydrogen Verbund network and will be used as raw material for chemical products. Additionally, BASF aims to supply hydrogen for mobility in the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region, supporting the local hydrogen economy. The project, named Hy4CHem, received funding of €124.3 million, with significant contributions from government entities.
Officials emphasize the importance of green hydrogen in achieving climate targets and decarbonizing the industrial sector. The initiative is seen as a significant step towards a sustainable future, with support from both federal and state governments. The project is praised for its innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness, signaling a strong commitment to technological progress and industrial decarbonization.
The commissioning of the PEM electrolyzer at BASF's Ludwigshafen site is hailed as a milestone for the region, Germany, and Europe in ramping up the hydrogen economy. The project is recognized as a key element in securing industrial jobs and promoting a climate-neutral future. Through this collaboration, BASF showcases the practical implementation of decarbonization in the industrial sector, inspiring further advancements in green hydrogen technology.