Genvia is set to test its innovative carbon-free hydrogen production at ArcelorMittal in Lozère.
ArcelorMittal, a significant producer of high-performance electrical steels used in industries such as electric vehicles and energy production, is seeking methods to decarbonize its processes.
The core of this endeavor is the Genvia SOEL200 experimental solid oxide electrolyzer. Capable of producing up to 200 kilos of hydrogen daily, the electrolyzer will cover 70 to 80% of the plant’s hydrogen needs. Bruno Ribo, the operations director at ArcelorMittal, underscores the importance of high-quality hydrogen for their 24/7 operations. This trial replaces traditional hydrogen, derived from steam methane reforming, with decarbonized hydrogen.
To enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the demonstrator will incorporate a heat recovery unit and a purification/compression unit. An innovation in this project is the integration of hydrogen from electrolysis with that of the existing processes on-demand, marking a global first for industrial application.
Florence Lambert, the president of Genvia, anticipates the test will last between six months to a year. Considered a crucial learning opportunity, the insights gained will have applications across various industries, including chemistry and aviation fuels. The current setup in Béziers, where a full-size replica of the industrial demonstrator is based, is part of ongoing improvements.
Genvia aims to roll out its more powerful 1 megawatt electrolyzer by the end of 2026, underscoring the company’s progress. Supported by substantial funding, the company plans to establish a second-generation factory in Béziers by 2028, potentially creating hundreds of jobs. Given the strategic importance of this project, it has garnered significant support, including the PIEEC Hy2Tech award.
