Thuringia’s glass, ceramics, and metal industries are gearing up for a seismic shift as they embark on the ambitious journey of transitioning to renewable energies. The unveiling of groundbreaking insights from a two-year research project on the industrial application of green hydrogen, funded with approximately €400,000 by the Thuringian Ministry of Energy, promises to be a guiding light through this transformative period.
At the heart of this initiative is the Thuringian Renewable Energy Network (THEEN), showcasing a model for companies engaged in thermal production processes to seamlessly replace their natural gas consumption with hydrogen. The overarching goal is to integrate green hydrogen effectively into the broader German-European hydrogen network. Thuringia’s Environment Minister, Bernhard Stengele, emphasized the necessity of not only ensuring a robust connection to existing hydrogen networks but also expanding wind power infrastructure within the state for local green hydrogen production.
The research project, focusing on the Hermsdorfer Kreuz industrial cluster in eastern Thuringia, unveils a pioneering concept for achieving a climate-neutral and efficient energy supply. The results challenge preconceived notions by illustrating that it’s not only chemical and steel industries that stand to benefit from green hydrogen; other sectors, including glass, ceramics, and metal, could also find it to be a cornerstone for their future energy needs.
As the industrial landscape at the Hermsdorfer Kreuz envisions its future, the concept of decentralized hydrogen supply emerges as a pragmatic entry point for a coalition of companies. This approach ensures flexibility and adaptability, allowing diverse industries to seamlessly incorporate green hydrogen into their operations.
To propel this vision forward, Thuringian industrial entities are actively engaging with network operators, disclosing their anticipated hydrogen demands. This collaborative effort aims to secure connections to the planned hydrogen pipelines along Autobahn 4, facilitating a smooth transition to a hydrogen-infused energy landscape.
