H2 Drive: the feasibility of an electrolyser

The entrepreneurs behind H2 Drive want to address grid congestion and the challenges of integrating additional renewable energy into the local electricity network. The plan is to gradually build an electrolyser with a capacity of 10 to 20 MW for the production of green hydrogen. This production facility and the associated hydrogen refuelling station will be located on a remediated former NAM gas extraction site in Gasselternijveenschemond. The electrolyser will also be connected to the closed distribution system (GDS) of potato starch manufacturer Avebe. For this, H2 Drive is carrying out a feasibility study.

Goals and actions

Through integrated modelling and scenario analysis, H2 Drive is investigating the technical, organisational, commercial, societal, legal, economic, and ecological feasibility.

The aim of the study is to determine the optimal setup and configuration of hydrogen production. It should relieve the GDS network, maximise the use of electricity from the connected solar park, and integrate additional renewable generation into the GDS. Another objective is to explore if and how the NAM gas pipeline can function as a hydrogen buffer and later be connected to the national hydrogen network. H2 Drive is also assessing the opportunities related to residual heat and oxygen released during hydrogen production. The study will result in a process design, a business case, and a calculation of additional costs and benefits.

Results

The study will produce a preliminary technical design, investment and operating cost estimates, a business model, and a spatial impact analysis. Based on this, H2 Drive will decide whether to invest in the electrolyser.

The research answers both technical and non-technical feasibility questions, such as design, stakeholder agreements, spatial planning, legal, and safety requirements. It also delivers a substantiated investment and operating budget and a business case.

The H2 on Track consortium

The consortium consists of: H2 Drive.