A recent groundbreaking project in Germany has set the stage for a new era of hydrogen use in oil refineries and the chemical industry. The Clean Refinery Hydrogen for Europe (REFHYNE) initiative, located in Wesseling just south of Koeln, successfully demonstrated the development and operation of a 10MW PEM electrolyser—the largest of its kind in the world. This project showcased the potential of green hydrogen production at an industrial scale within a refinery setting, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s transition towards cleaner energy sources.
The REFHYNE project, a collaborative effort between key partners including Shell, SINTEF, Sphera, and ERM, faced unique challenges during the global pandemic. However, the dedication and hard work of all involved parties ensured the successful completion of the initiative. Data collected from the project highlighted ITMPower’s stack performance and operational flexibility, setting a new standard for green hydrogen production in refineries.
Moving to the North West region of the UK, developments in hydrogen technologies are also making strides at the Stanlow refinery. Steam Methane Reforming ‘Blue’ Hydrogen technologies are being integrated into one of the country’s largest refineries, showcasing the versatility and potential of hydrogen in the energy sector. Similar advancements are taking place in Holland and Germany, where industrial-scale electrolysers are being tested in real-world refinery and chemical cluster settings to assess their performance, cost-efficiency, and long-term reliability.
Shell’s site at Pernis in Holland is strategically located near the hydrogen hub at Maasvlagte, offering a glimpse into the interconnected nature of Europe’s hydrogen infrastructure. As the largest port in Europe with global shipping links, Maasvlagte plays a crucial role in the development of a sustainable hydrogen economy on the continent. Additionally, a power-to-liquid (ptl) plant for synthetic aviation fuel and naptha from renewables and biomass in Wesseling is awaiting a final investment decision, further underscoring the industry’s commitment to green energy solutions.
Looking ahead, the progress made in projects like REFHYNE sets the stage for future innovations in the hydrogen sector. The upcoming RefHYne 2 project, to be discussed at the Hydrogen Innovation focus group, promises to build on the success of its predecessor and drive further advancements in green hydrogen production. As the industry continues to evolve, organizations like Charley Rattan Associates play a vital role in providing advisory and training services to support the growth of the hydrogen sector. With a 15-minute free consultation available on their website, they are committed to helping businesses navigate the transition from oil and gas to CCS, offshore wind, and hydrogen with confidence and expertise.
In conclusion, the recent achievements in hydrogen use in oil refineries and the chemical industry mark a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future. By leveraging the power of green hydrogen production, these projects are paving the way for a cleaner, greener world for future generations to enjoy.
