The German government’s updated national hydrogen strategy has garnered praise from the German Wind Energy Association (BWO) for offering increased planning security for offshore wind projects.
The strategy, which outlines ambitious targets for domestic electrolysis capacity, sets the stage for a significant expansion of green hydrogen production through the utilization of offshore wind power.
Under the revised national hydrogen strategy, Germany aims to boost its domestic electrolysis capacity to at least 10GW by 2030, doubling the initial target of 5GW. This ambitious goal signals the country’s commitment to harnessing hydrogen as a key enabler of its energy transition and decarbonization efforts.
In a groundbreaking move, the federal government has allocated an area in the North Sea dedicated to offshore hydrogen production. The designated area is expected to house 1GW of installed wind energy capacity, firmly establishing offshore wind farms as a cornerstone of Germany’s green hydrogen vision.
To facilitate the rapid growth of green hydrogen production, the plan includes the tendering of 2023MW of electrolyser capacity between 2028 and 2030. These electrolysis projects will be instrumental in generating green hydrogen on land, with a key focus on utilizing electricity sourced from offshore wind farms.
Stefan Thimm, the Managing Director of BWO, expressed enthusiasm for the updated hydrogen strategy, stating that it provides much-needed planning security for the offshore wind industry. The clear targets set by the strategy serve as a catalyst for immediate action in the production of green hydrogen from offshore wind resources.
While the strategy outlines ambitious goals, Thimm urges the government to define concrete measures for green hydrogen production from offshore wind. Clarity on funding criteria for electrolysis at sea is essential to expedite the tender process for the designated North Sea area intended for hydrogen production.
To ensure the success of the hydrogen strategy, BWO emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between stakeholders’ interests and the goal of rapid hydrogen production. Encouraging positive investment decisions among operators is crucial in driving forward the expansion of green hydrogen projects.
Germany’s updated national hydrogen strategy represents a decisive step towards a more sustainable and decarbonized energy landscape. By elevating the targets for electrolysis capacity and integrating offshore wind power into the equation, the country is set to become a global frontrunner in green hydrogen production. As the strategy unfolds, collaboration between industry stakeholders, innovative policies, and swift implementation will be paramount to realizing the full potential of offshore wind in propelling Germany’s hydrogen-powered future.
