Optimism around the progress of the hydrogen industry is being tempered by the infrastructural and regulatory challenges threating the sector’s momentum.
The 4th annual H2 Forum held at the Estrel Hotel & Convention Center, heard contributions from energy suppliers, automotive and industrial companies, technology manufacturers and research institutions. Frank Sonnenschein, Global Business Development Manager Hydrogen at Versiv Composites said the conversation around fuel cells and electrolysers showed the industry had advanced, but concerns remain.
Hydrogen infrastructure development
“A lot of the discussion featured the legislative aspect. Specifically, how we enable the infrastructure to transport hydrogen across Europe. This is a leap from previous discussions where the focus was all about having enough production and how we use hydrogen. A lot of the talk now is how we transport H2 from Denmark to Stuttgart, or Rostock to Paris, how we improve the connectivity across borders, and the investment needed for execution.”
The German government has announced a €20 billion, 9,700 Km hydrogen pipeline network investment, indicating the intent and optimism around H2 at the present time. Sonnenschein sees opportunities for all stakeholders.
“For example, in terms of interconnection, German pipes are different in design and diameter to France. Cross-border interconnections and the pipework requirements represent equipment opportunities. If the infrastructural challenges are resolved, it opens the opportunity for better planning throughout the sector.”
Interestingly, European gas pipeline infrastructure totals 250,000 Km. Could we possibly use part of this existing grid as hydrogen is only going to grow over time, while other fossil sources reduce.”
PTFE Gaskets role in hydrogen electrolyser progress
The role of gaskets in the ongoing development of fuel cell and electrolyser infrastructure was a keen subject of discussion among delegates at the event. In one keynote discussion, an interactive poll saw it ranked highest, in terms of topical questions of most interest to the audience.
Green hydrogen is seen as key to the decarbonisation of many industry and transportation processes, as Europe continues to aim at energy sector carbon neutrality. PTFE-based gasket infrastructure is regarded as a key component in fuel cell and electrolyser development if Europe is to meet targets such as 25 GW of electrolyser capacity by 2025 and 100 GW by 2030.
Stakeholders are keen to see regulatory clarity on the use of PTFE-based components before planning and investment decisions can be made.
