BASF's Green Hydrogen Milestone: Largest PEM Electrolyzer in Germany
Key Ideas
  • Germany's largest PEM electrolyzer at BASF's Ludwigshafen site is operational, producing zero-carbon hydrogen with a capacity of one metric ton per hour.
  • The electrolyzer has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 72,000 metric tons annually and supports the production of chemical products with a reduced carbon footprint.
  • BASF plans to use the green hydrogen as a raw material for chemical products and support the development of a hydrogen economy for mobility in the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region.
  • The project received funding of up to €124.3 million from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, the State of Rhineland-Palatinate, and BASF, marking a significant step in decarbonizing the industrial sector.
BASF's largest proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer in Germany has commenced operations at its Ludwigshafen site, designed to produce zero-carbon hydrogen. With a connected load of 54 megawatts, the electrolyzer can supply up to one metric ton of hydrogen per hour to the main plant. The inauguration of the plant was attended by notable figures like the Rhineland-Palatinate State Minister for Climate Protection and the State Secretary at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. Built in partnership with Siemens Energy, the electrolyzer is integrated into the Ludwigshafen site's production and infrastructure, containing 72 stacks for the electrolysis process. This initiative aligns with BASF's goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 72,000 metric tons annually at its main plant. The green hydrogen will be utilized as a feedstock for chemical products and to support the local hydrogen economy for mobility. The Hy4CHem project received funding of €124.3 million, with BASF contributing approximately €25 million. The collaboration signifies a significant step towards decarbonization in the industrial sector and showcases the potential of green hydrogen production in a chemical environment. The project has garnered praise from various officials for its role in advancing the hydrogen economy and achieving climate targets, emphasizing the importance of such technological progress in the industry.
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