Hydrogen distribution company Uckermark Barnim

In this project, RLI scientists are working together with project partners on new solutions to promote green hydrogen in the Uckermark-Barnim region in Brandenburg. The aim of the project is to utilise green hydrogen for sustainable transport and other purposes as well as to promote the storage and use of green energy. In particular, the experts are investigating whether a municipal distribution company would be a sensible way to support the local hydrogen economy. The region between Berlin and Szczecin in Poland will have excellent connections to the planned H2 pipeline infrastructure and is well suited for the generation of electricity from renewable energies. The project aims to make the region’s energy supply more secure and cheaper and strengthen the regional economy.

Developing plants for renewable energy

In the project, scientists are developing concepts for the expansion of plants that generate electricity from renewable energies. They are also developing a plan for decentralised electrolysers with a total output of 10 to 30 megawatts (MW). Each individual plant is to have 1 to 5 MW and produce green hydrogen. The project team is investigating whether a municipal sales company should be founded in order to create planning security for hydrogen production and utilisation and to improve the marketing of green hydrogen. A legal review of this company is also planned. Partnerships between industry, logistics, local authorities, science and politics are important for this.

Technologies and studies

For the feasibility study, the project team is using the Open Plan simulation tool developed at RLI, including economic analyses, to examine and optimise the feasibility and profitability of hydrogen production and distribution. Various partners, such as stakeholders interested in the production or use of H2, will work together to advance the Uckermark-Barnim region in the use and production of green hydrogen.

Project period: July to October 2024

Feasibility study:

• Investigation of the production potential (hydrogen production costs)
• Assessment of hydrogen production costs in the context of current pricing
• Possible purchasing structure

Recommendations for the establishment of an H2 distribution company

• Profitability analysis:Legal assessment of the hydrogen distribution company (IKEM)
• Profitability calculation
• Recommendations for action for the hydrogen distribution company