Germany’s largest natural gas storage operator, Uniper, is set to present an underground test storage facility for hydrogen in the East Frisian town of Krummhorn.
This event marks the beginning of a two-year period during which the facility will test how materials and technology cope with hydrogen. The primary objective is to understand the storage dynamics of hydrogen under real-world conditions. Expected to begin operations soon, the event will also be attended by Lower Saxony’s Economics Minister Olaf Lies (SPD).
As per Uniper’s announcements, the goal is to develop a commercial-scale facility for climate-neutral hydrogen storage. Preliminary tests have been ongoing in Bierwang, Bavaria, where Uniper has been exploring hydrogen storage in porous rock for several months.
Hydrogen, known as the lightest element, is seen as pivotal for a climate-neutral economic system. It’s anticipated to generate electricity in new gas-fired power plants during periods of insufficient wind or solar power, and potentially replace coke in steelworks, thus significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Experts foresee a substantial demand for hydrogen storage in Germany’s future energy landscape.
Hydrogen Pipeline to Bypass Cavern
Uniper, which was recently nationalized amid the energy crisis, positions itself as a frontrunner in establishing a European hydrogen economy. The company has ambitious plans, with major projects lined up across Germany, Sweden, the UK, and the Netherlands. In Wilhelmshaven, approximately 70 kilometers from Krummhorn, Uniper aims to construct a large electrolyzer for hydrogen production and a landing terminal for green ammonia. The strategic location of the Krummhorn facility is further bolstered by its proximity to the planned hydrogen pipeline core network.
