Lhyfe, a global leader in green and renewable hydrogen production, and duisport, the company managing the world’s largest inland port in Duisburg, are conducting a feasibility study for the construction of the first electrolysis-based hydrogen production plant in the port of Duisburg.
This collaborative project aims to provide hydrogen directly for local use, with partners such as Duisburger Verkehrs- und Versorgungsgesellschaft (DVV), Wirtschaftsbetriebe Duisburg (WBD), and Duisburg Gateway Terminal (DGT) signing a declaration of intent to support the transition to climate-neutral energy sources and decarbonize mobility in the region.
The feasibility study will be carried out by Lhyfe, with the hydrogen production unit expected to have a maximum capacity of 20 MW. The plant, planned to be situated on land owned by Duisburger Hafen AG, could be operational by mid-2025. The project aligns with the partners’ commitment to reducing carbon emissions and demonstrates their dedication to carbon-neutral operations.
Markus Bangen, Managing Director of duisport, emphasizes the importance of decarbonizing the local economy and industry, stating that the construction of the electrolyser in Duisburg would be a significant step in achieving that goal. It would not only enable the operation of the largest container port terminal in the European hinterland, the Duisburg Gateway Terminal, but also ensure its carbon-neutral operation.
Luc Graré, Head of Central and Eastern Europe at Lhyfe, highlights the individual and tailored approach of hydrogen projects, which allows the company to present solutions to customers seeking alternatives to fossil fuels. The feasibility study will provide insights into the implementation of green hydrogen at an appropriate scale, showcasing its potential for broader adoption.
To ensure the production of green hydrogen, the electrolysis unit will rely exclusively on renewable energy sources. If the project moves forward, up to eight tons of green hydrogen could be produced daily to meet the partners’ requirements.
Marcus Vunic, Managing Director of DVV, acknowledges the central role of hydrogen in the energy transition and the need for adequate electricity, water, and grid infrastructure. He explains that Netze Duisburg, the local electricity grid operator, could extend the grid, while Stadtwerke Duisburg, a regional energy supplier, would provide the necessary green electricity under a supply contract. Furthermore, DVV plans to use green hydrogen for its fleet of fuel cell buses in public transport, in collaboration with DVG, the local public transport company.
Thomas Patermann, spokesperson for the WBD Board of Directors, states that the project aligns with Wirtschaftsbetriebe Duisburg’s strategy of gradually converting its vehicle fleet to alternative propulsion systems. The hydrogen production plant would allow WBD to supply its hydrogen vehicles with green hydrogen, contributing to climate protection efforts.
The partners aim to leverage existing infrastructure and refueling facilities to optimize the supply of green hydrogen for hydrogen vehicles. Lhyfe, with its expertise and track record in the mobility sector, will support DVV and WBD in the transition of their vehicle fleets. The collaboration exemplifies the strong partnerships within Duisburg and their collective commitment to sustainable practices and climate protection.
