Rolls-Royce and Partners Collaborate on Innovative Hydrogen Combustion Engine for Energy Industry Advancement
Key Ideas
  • Rolls-Royce is leading the Phoenix project with partners to develop a cutting-edge hydrogen combustion engine for combined heat and power systems, aiming to match the performance of natural gas cogeneration units.
  • The project, backed by the German government, includes developing key components like injection systems and pistons, with the goal of creating a mature technological concept for a prototype engine within three years.
  • Germany's energy strategy involves using decentralized gas-fired power plants to stabilize renewable energy supply, with a shift towards hydrogen cogeneration plants to reduce CO2 emissions and counter wind and solar power fluctuations.
  • The collaboration signifies an important step in advancing hydrogen technology for future energy needs, reflecting Rolls-Royce's commitment to innovation and sustainable energy solutions.
Rolls-Royce has initiated the Phoenix project in partnership with five companies and research institutes to pioneer a groundbreaking hydrogen combustion engine for combined heat and power (CHP) systems. With nearly five million euros in support from the German government, the project aims to achieve electrical and thermal energy outputs comparable to current natural gas cogeneration units, reaching up to 2.5 MW. The focus lies on creating a technically advanced and dependable solution for the energy industry. Dr. Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems, emphasizes the continued importance of combustion engines in ensuring a secure energy supply. The project targets the development of essential components for the hydrogen engine, such as the injection system, piston group, ignition system, and a specialized lubricant, with partners including renowned entities like the Technical University of Munich and Robert Bosch AG. This three-year endeavor intends to deliver a fully developed technological blueprint suitable for integration into a prototype engine. In line with Germany's energy strategy, which entails the construction of new gas-fired power plants to stabilize renewable energy supply, the transition to decentralized gas-fired power plants is seen as crucial in balancing wind and solar energy fluctuations. The deployment of hydrogen cogeneration plants, made feasible by the widespread availability of green hydrogen, is a vital part of this strategy. The collaboration spearheaded by Rolls-Royce signifies a significant stride in advancing hydrogen technology to meet the evolving energy demands, underscoring the company's dedication to innovation and sustainable energy practices.
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