Ireland and Germany are joining forces in a green hydrogen initiative. Spearheaded by ESB, this project aims to examine the production of green hydrogen and its export from Ireland to Germany.
Dubbed HYreland, this study marks the first energy collaboration between the two nations, working alongside the German government and Ireland’s Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications.
HYreland will explore both economic and technical facets of a potential hydrogen agreement between Ireland and Germany. The focus is on two ESB sites in Ireland: Moneypoint in County Clare and Aghada in County Cork. The preliminary findings are anticipated by the end of 2025, providing key insights into the feasibility of hydrogen production and transportation.
This ambitious undertaking will be led by the renowned Fraunhofer ISE, a leading research institute from Germany, along with Ireland’s International Energy Research Centre. They will work closely with various industrial partners to ensure comprehensive evaluation and outcomes.
Jim Dollard of ESB underlined green hydrogen as a viable clean energy source, especially during low wind and solar production periods. He emphasized the project’s significance, referencing similar international studies that will guide the HYreland initiative. The German Ambassador to Ireland, David Gill, expressed optimism about the initiative’s role in Europe’s ecological transformation, envisioning Ireland’s pivotal contribution to Germany and Europe’s energy needs.