H2Heat Project
H2Heat Positioning in terms of R&I Maturity and Technology Readiness Level – Part 2
H2Heat Positioning in terms of R&I Maturity and Technology Readiness Level – Part 2 https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/image-5.png 902 534 H2Heat Project https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/image-5.pngINNOVATIVE H2-CHP/ HEAT PUMP COMBINED SYSTEM
H2HEAT is leading the way in reducing emissions in industrial heat supply, where low-temperature heat (<100 °C) is in high demand.
Heat pumps are well suited to reducing emissions in the supply of low temperature (<100 °C) heat, which, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), is the largest source of industrial heat demand today. A heat pump might typically have a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 3-5 (or higher depending on the application), i.e. it can transfer 500 % more energy than it consumes. A high efficiency gas boiler might achieve a maximum of 95%. Therefore, the use of heat pumps instead of boilers is highly efficient and can contribute substantially to the carbon footprint reduction. Currently, most heat pumps in commercial systems are powered by conventional energy.
The H2HEAT concept is to combine the H2-CHP with the heat pump. Partner 2G will complete this integration and include it as part of their product roadmap. This has multiple benefits to CHUIMI hospital. Firstly, the direct use of the energy produced by the CHP from H2 will make the heat generated 100% green. Secondly, it avoids the necessity for CHUIMI of having to integrate the H2-CHP into its electrical system, saving costs. Thirdly, the high COP of the heat pump combined with the H2-CHP heat output will come close to supplying all of CHUIMI heat requirement.
SOPHISTICATED CONTROL SYSTEM FOR H2 PRODUCTION, AND DIGITAL SIMULATIONS FOR PLANNING AND TESTING
Hybrid combinations of RE for H2 production are relatively nascent and certainly have not been trialled extensively in a real environment. Therefore the EMS and DSM required to cater electrically for such a complex mix is still relatively new. BIG HIT used a combination of wind and tidal RE. However, at peak it only produced 50t p.a H2. Likewise, digital simulation systems for planning and testing multiple RE combinations for H2 production are at development stage.
H2HEAT partner will develop a highly innovative smart digital system that will be capable of managing combined non-correlated multiple RE types and integrate with the H2 production via a sophisticated control system incorporating smart EMS, DSM and SCADA.
While H2HEAT will use OSW only, the control system will be future proofed to the PLOCAN vison for its research center of multiple RE sources and types.
There are increasing numbers of H2 projects using electrolysers for conversion of RE. However, there are only a limited number based on islands. Surf ‘n’ Turf, the predecessor of BIG HIT encountered corrosion on the electrolyser due to the prevailing conditions on the Orkney Islands.
The Oyster project will investigate the feasibility of combining an OSW turbine directly with an electrolyser and transporting renewable hydrogen to shore. However, it is a scale trial only with no commercial end consumer, not post project continuity.
H2HEAT will locate the H2 production facility in the PLOCAN nearshore site. The choice of the onshore over the marine based RE equipment (Oyster) is to reduce maintenance cost and increase efficiency in operations, particularly for multiple RE sources. The H2HEAT electrolysis system that will be installed will have to operate efficiently under occasionally difficult nearshore conditions while requiring minimal maintenance and still meet performance targets.
Learning from such EU island projects as BIG HIT, H2HEAT will investigate:
- improved coating protection systems used on equipment e.g. from the Oil and Gas industry (NORSOK M501, C5),
- anti-corrosion material such as Xylan®.
- materials of construction e.g. Stainless steel minimum grade 316
- galvanic isolation use when considering dissimilar materials of construction if appropriate
H2Heat’s Adventure Starts Now: The First Meeting on Gran Canaria
H2Heat’s Adventure Starts Now: The First Meeting on Gran Canaria https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/test-site-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 H2Heat Project https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/test-site-1024x768.jpgOn the horizon, a significant event is set to unfold—the H2Heat project kick-off meeting, scheduled for the 27th of September. This three-day event promises to mark the beginning of a journey towards a sustainable energy future. With 11 project partners forming a consortium, the H2Heat project aims to make a lasting impact on the energy landscape.
The 11-Partners Project
At the heart of the H2Heat project are 11 project partners, united by a shared vision for a greener, more sustainable future. This consortium, comprising experts from various fields, will collaborate closely to bring innovative solutions to the forefront of sustainable energy.
The Power of Connectivity: Zooming into the Meeting
In the age of digital connectivity, the H2Heat kick-off meeting is set to harness the power of the internet. Held live via Zoom with Link, this meeting will be accessible to anyone interested in the project’s mission.
Unveiling Work Packages: Responsibilities in Focus
One of the highlights of the kick-off meeting will be the presentation of Work Packages by each partner. These Work Packages serve as the blueprints for the project’s success, outlining each partner’s unique responsibilities and contributions. This transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page, fostering collaboration and synergy among the partners.
Timing is Everything
The kick-off meeting will adhere to the Western European Summer Time (WEST) timezone, commencing at 09:30 and concluding at 18:30. This well-structured schedule ensures that every minute of the three-day event is utilized efficiently, as the project partners embark on this transformative journey.
At its core, the H2Heat project carries a grand ambition. Boasting a budget of 13 million euros, of which a substantial 10 million euros is generously provided by the European Union, and spanning a duration of five years, its overarching goal is to demonstrate the entire value chain of green hydrogen (H2) utilization for heating purposes within commercial buildings. These structures collectively account for 40% of the total energy consumption and a significant 36% of greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union. Remarkably, a staggering 79% of this energy demand is attributed to water heating and air conditioning.
The H2Heat project, officially titled “Innovative Production of Renewable Energy Vectors for Heating from Renewable Energy” introduces several pioneering elements. These include the production of highly combustible hydrogen through an innovative 1MW electrolyzer that utilizes marine renewable energy sources. Additionally, the project combines advanced combustion technology in the form of a hydrogen-operated Combined Heat and Power (CHP) burner, as well as a heat pump. These innovative components are complemented by a robust infrastructure designed to transport hydrogen from the production facility to the end-user.
The source of renewable energy for this endeavour will be Esteyco’s offshore wind turbine. The electrolyzer will find its home at EMALSA’s facilities in Jinámar, while the CHP burner and heat pump will be stationed at the Complejo Hospitalario Insular Materno Infantil de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (CHUIMI).
Zero Net Emissions Health Strategy
In a significant stride towards sustainability, H2HEAT collaborates closely with the Canary Health Service (SCS) to create a comprehensive demonstration of green hydrogen for heating and subsequent energy applications. This demonstration model will serve as a blueprint for all SCS hospitals, enabling the fulfillment of the “Zero Net Emissions Health Strategy.” This strategy entails a profound decarbonization effort, positioning the project as a trailblazer in shaping a “Hydrogen Valley” concept on the island of Gran Canaria, with future expansion plans encompassing the entire archipelago.
The collaborative expertise within the consortium ensures the efficient realization of the project’s technical objectives. It aims to substantially reduce the cost of H2 fuel for consumers and develop scalable business models for extensive commercial utilization of hydrogen as a primary heating alternative in Gran Canaria.
The esteemed partners comprising the H2Heat project consortium are as follows: PLOCAN; Esteyco Spain, specialising in fixed and floating wind turbine technology; Neodyne Ireland, responsible for electrical engineering and EMS control; Stargate Estonia, overseeing the electrolyzer, compressor, and storage; 2G Spain, in charge of H2 CHP technology; ICoRSA Ireland, contributing to Dissemination and Communication, as well as Public Engagement; CMS Spain, leading public engagement efforts in Gran Canaria; EMEC UK (Orkney Islands), providing invaluable experience in H2 distribution networks, business models, and techno-economics; SCS/CHUIMI Spain, representing the Canary Health Service; Canary Islands Agency for Research, Innovation, and Information Society of the Canary Islands Government (ACIISI); and SPLP Ukraine, renowned H2 experts specialising in electrolyzer research.
With global access via Zoom, a stunning location, and meticulous planning, this event has all the elements to set the stage for a brighter, cleaner energy future. Stay tuned for updates as the H2Heat project unfolds and leads the charge towards a greener world via our X (f.k.a. Twitter) and LinkedIn.
This is how the EU fights for a Sustainable Future
This is how the EU fights for a Sustainable Future https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/eu-768x544-1-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 H2Heat Project https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/eu-768x544-1-1024x768.jpgIn a world grappling with the dire consequences of climate change, the European Union (EU) has set an ambitious and inspiring target: to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050. This commitment reflects the EU’s dedication to leading the charge in mitigating climate change, fostering sustainable development, and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. In this blog, we’ll explore the EU’s net-zero emissions goal, its significance, and the strategies it is employing to make it a reality.
Understanding Net-Zero Emissions
Net-zero emissions, often referred to as carbon neutrality, mean that a region or entity is balancing the amount of greenhouse gases it emits with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. Achieving net-zero emissions doesn’t imply eliminating all emissions; instead, it involves reducing emissions as much as possible and offsetting the remaining emissions through various means, such as carbon capture and removal technologies or reforestation projects.
The Urgency of the Climate Crisis
The EU’s commitment to net-zero emissions comes at a critical time. The impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disruptions to ecosystems, are already being felt worldwide. Urgent action is required to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. Net-zero emissions by 2050 is a crucial milestone in achieving this goal.
The EU’s Leadership Role
The EU has long been at the forefront of international efforts to combat climate change. Its Green Deal, announced in December 2019, lays out a comprehensive plan to make the EU the world’s first climate-neutral continent. The net-zero emissions goal is a cornerstone of this initiative, demonstrating the EU’s leadership in environmental stewardship.
Strategies for Achieving Net-Zero Emissions
Energy Efficiency
Improving energy efficiency in industries, buildings, and transportation is a key strategy. This includes renovating buildings to be more energy-efficient, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing stringent energy efficiency standards.
Transition to Renewable Energy
The EU is investing heavily in renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower. These sources provide clean and sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, reducing emissions from the energy sector.
Carbon Pricing
The EU has implemented a carbon pricing mechanism through its Emissions Trading System (ETS). This incentivizes industries to reduce emissions and invest in cleaner technologies.
Reforestation and Land Use
The EU is committed to preserving and restoring forests and adopting sustainable agricultural practices. Forests act as carbon sinks, helping to offset emissions.
Innovation and Research
The EU is funding research and innovation in green technologies and solutions, ensuring the development of cutting-edge tools to reduce emissions. Just Transition: Recognizing the need for a fair transition, the EU is working to support regions and industries heavily reliant on fossil fuels in their shift toward sustainable alternatives.
Challenges and Obstacles
The journey to net-zero emissions is not without challenges. It requires significant investments, changes in behavior, and overcoming political hurdles. Industries with high emissions, such as heavy manufacturing and aviation, face particular difficulties in transitioning to low-carbon alternatives. The clock is ticking, and the EU’s determination to reach net-zero emissions is a crucial step toward preserving our planet for future generations.
H2Heat Pioneering Green Hydrogen for Sustainable Heating Solutions
H2Heat Pioneering Green Hydrogen for Sustainable Heating Solutions https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2021.12_fotos_plocan_027-scaled2-1024x538.jpg 1024 538 H2Heat Project https://h2-heat.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2021.12_fotos_plocan_027-scaled2-1024x538.jpgThe H2Heat project, which aims to showcase the potential of converting green hydrogen (H2) for sustainable heating solutions, has started its first phase.
The H2HEAT project, starting in September is set to revolutionise the way we generate and utilise energy by converting heat into the commercial building’s heating and hot water systems, for example in one of the hospitals in Gran Canaria. This may reduce CO2 emissions by over fifty percent, significantly contributing to their sustainability goals. As the Canary Islands embrace locally-produced H2 from renewable energy sources, H2Heat’s impact is present throughout the regional economy.
The core of the project lies in the strategic partnership between the Canary Island Health Service (SCS) and coordinator PLOCAN. This alliance lays the groundwork for the entire project, driven by a shared commitment to renewable energy generation and hospital facility decarbonisation. Aligned with the ambitious ‘Health Zer0 net Emissions Strategy 2030’ of the Government of Canary Islands, this collaboration holds the potential to reshape energy practices within the healthcare sector. The H2Heat extends its reach as a contributor to the green H2 supply and value chains, by creating transformative innovations. Project consortium of 11 partners bring diverse expertise, ensure realisation of technical goals, reduce the total cost of ownership for consumers, and create replicable business models.
Beyond the tech: Engaging Stakeholders
As awareness is pivotal for success for any organisation, H2Heat takes a comprehensive approach. Industry, research, government, civil society and investors – aim to foster collaboration and co-creation. As the curtains rise on the H2Heats project’s kick-off, the promise of a greener, sustainable future takes centre stage. Through collaboration, innovation and strategic alignment, H2Heat stands as a testament for the capacity to reshape the energy landscape for the better.
Challenges
Experience from past EU funded initiatives show that technological challenges are often not the primary concert when it comes to adopting green hydrogen (H2), in particular for heating and energy applications.
Instead, a lack of awareness among essential stakeholders poses a greater challenge. By identifying opportunities, fostering collaboration and understanding strategies required for large scale implementation can be challenging by the awareness gap.
With full recognition of the challenges, H2HEAT is strategically focused on engaging on the “Quadruple Helix of stakeholder” which encompass investors, civil societies, research institutions, governments and industry experts. By fostering collaboration, H2HEAT aims to bridge the gap between potential and realisation – ensuring the project’s impact on sustainability and green energy globally.
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