The European Union (EU) grants funding for thyssenkrupp nucera’s SOEC project to produce green hydrogen. The funding for ThyssenKrupp nucera’s SOEC (solid oxide electrolyzer cell) project of up to €36 million, will support the construction of a 300 MW production plant that uses high-temperature electrolysis technology.
Boosting Industrialization of SOEC Technology
The EU Innovation Funds to accelerate industrialization of the highly efficient SOEC technology, licensed from the Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems (IKTS). This fund supports projects focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate-friendly innovation. Further details of the funding will be finalized in discussions with the EU.
thyssenkrupp nucera CEO, Dr. Werner Ponikwar praised the EU’s decision, stating, “The EU’s support signals the importance of SOEC technology. With its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, high-temperature electrolysis is crucial for green hydrogen production. It will help companies contribute to decarbonization in the near future.”
Pilot Plant to Pave the Way for Larger Production
The company plans to launch a pilot plant with 8 MW capacity by mid-2025, producing SOEC stacks in limited quantities. Located in Arnstadt, Thuringia, the facility will focus on manufacturing electrolyzer stacks—the core components of the high-temperature electrolysis system.
Professor Dr. Alexander Michaelis, Director of Fraunhofer IKTS, emphasized the strategic importance, saying, “Scaling SOEC stack production will position thyssenkrupp nucera as a leader in this groundbreaking technology.”
SOEC Stack Design: High Temperature and High Efficiency
The SOEC stack features an oxygen-ion-conducting ceramic solid electrolyte. This core component is screen-printed with two electrodes and connected to chromium-based interconnects, which are ideal for high temperatures.
To enhance industrial application, further research and collaboration are underway. thyssenkrupp nucera and Fraunhofer IKTS formalized a strategic partnership in March, combining over 20 years of Fraunhofer’s foundational research with thyssenkrupp’s industrial expertise.
Efficiency and Industrial Relevance of SOEC Technology
SOEC technology offers high energy efficiency, making it particularly valuable to industries generating waste heat, such as steel manufacturing. By utilizing waste heat in high-temperature electrolysis, companies can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
As per the press release, the efficiency aligns with thyssenkrupp nucera’s broader portfolio and customer needs, reinforcing SOEC as a key solution in the transition to green hydrogen.
