What is the H2Heat Project and How Does it Help the Climate Change?

• October 9, 2023

The H2HEAT project is grabbing attention by showcasing creative ways to harness renewable energy and transform it into renewable energy carriers in the fight for a better, more sustainable future. With a focus on cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability, this revolutionary effort aims to revolutionise the energy landscape.

Green Hydrogen Production

H2HEAT will showcase the production of hydrogen (H2) through the conversion of renewable energy (RE) supplied by Esteyco Offshore Wind (OSW). This transformation will be achieved using cutting-edge technology, particularly the Stargate electrolyser installed in a dedicated H2 facility. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to wind energy efficiencies, cabling infrastructure, energy loss reduction, and H2 production will be rigorously tested in Work Package 4 (WP4). The integration of a sophisticated control system developed by NeoDyne will ensure maximum efficiency by accounting for RE variability and demand/supply balancing.

Sustainable Heating Solution

In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency, H2HEAT will demonstrate the use of hydrogen (H2) for heating applications at the CHIUMI hospital. This hospital currently consumes a substantial 5000MW/year for heating purposes. By substituting traditional heating fuels with H2 from a combined Heat and Power (CHP) system or Heat Pump, the hospital aims to achieve up to 90% reduction in its heating fuel consumption. WP4 will evaluate the combustion efficiency and other key specifications.

Environmental Sustainability

One of the primary goals of the H2HEAT project is to achieve near-zero carbon emissions throughout the end-to-end green H2 heating process. Drawing on the extensive experience of our partner organizations in implementing green energy solutions, we are committed to adhering to European Environmental and Social standards and taxonomy principles. Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) will be conducted, along with comprehensive Life Cycle Analysis.

WP1 will closely monitor the entire project, supply chains, and value chains, focusing on pollution prevention, biodiversity, climate change, and ecosystems. Copernicus data and products will be leveraged for in-depth environmental impact analysis.

Socioeconomic Sustainability

H2HEAT recognizes the importance of socioeconomic sustainability in its heating supply and value chains. This will be achieved through a Quadruple Helix approach in Objective 5 (WP7), emphasizing public engagement, community involvement, and responsible research and innovation (RRI) principles. Collaboration with the local community and Gran Canaria authorities will be initiated at an early stage. The project will also prioritize the use of local materials, services, and labor whenever possible. Education and knowledge transfer activities will ensure that the Las Palmas and wider Gran Canaria community is informed, educated, and actively participates in the Green Energy Valley concept and H2HEAT.

Achieving Technology Readiness Level 7

The H2HEAT project aims to achieve Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL7) by the end of the project duration. This milestone will be reached through the comprehensive demonstration of the H2HEAT technology in WP4 within Gran Canaria’s operational environment. The project will undergo rigorous monitoring for a 24-month period, ensuring that all objectives are met and that the technology is ready for real-world applications. WP3 will develop a detailed test strategy, covering Factory, Site, and Demonstration Acceptance testing.

Cross-cutting Priorities: Artificial Intelligence and Digital Agenda

H2HEAT will lead the way in designing and implementing a full control system, including a smart Energy Management System (EMS), Demand Side Management (DSM) system, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. This integrated approach will facilitate demand response, modeling, and forecasting, ensuring energy efficiency in the face of variable energy supply. The system will also enable digital monitoring, analysis, and reporting during the demonstration phase, positioning H2HEAT at the forefront of the digital agenda.

The H2HEAT project represents a significant step toward a sustainable and eco-friendly future, where renewable energy is harnessed efficiently, and innovative solutions are implemented to address our heating needs. Stay tuned for updates as H2HEAT paves the way for a cleaner, greener energy landscape.