US electrolyser specialist Ohmium International has been selected to supply proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers for a pioneering 10-MW green hydrogen project at the Rijeka refinery in Croatia.
This project, led by Croatian industrial engineering firm IVICOM, marks the first green hydrogen initiative in the Adriatic country and represents a significant step towards sustainable fuel production in the region.
The Rijeka refinery, owned by Croatian oil major INA dd, will host the green hydrogen plant. The project’s integration of Ohmium’s PEM electrolysers with a new solar farm aims to produce green hydrogen and sustainable fuels for the transportation sector. The initiative is supported by Croatia’s Recovery and Resilience Facility, underscoring the government’s commitment to renewable energy and industrial decarbonization.
Globally, the move towards green hydrogen is gaining momentum as countries seek to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate goals. Europe’s hydrogen strategy, for instance, includes significant investments in green hydrogen infrastructure. Croatia’s entry into this arena, although nascent, aligns with broader European efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources.
Ohmium’s PEM electrolysers are known for their compatibility with renewable energy sources like solar power. These electrolysers will enable the Rijeka refinery to produce green hydrogen efficiently, leveraging the region’s solar potential. According to Arne Ballantine, Ohmium CEO, the company’s technology is uniquely suited for refinery decarbonization and promoting green transportation.
PEM electrolysers are widely regarded for their efficiency and adaptability to fluctuating power inputs, making them ideal for coupling with intermittent renewable sources. Companies like Siemens and ITM Power are also advancing similar technologies, positioning Ohmium’s contribution within a competitive and rapidly evolving market.
The involvement of the Croatian government through the Recovery and Resilience Facility highlights the strategic importance of this project. The government’s partial ownership of INA and support for the green hydrogen and solar initiatives reflect a broader policy framework aimed at boosting renewable energy adoption and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
While the government’s support is crucial, the success of this project will depend on effective implementation and integration of the technologies involved. The collaboration between Ohmium, IVICOM, and INA needs to be closely monitored to ensure that the project meets its sustainability and economic targets.
