Bendorf accelerates green hydrogen economy with HyStarter initiative

Bendorf has been chosen as one of 15 German regions to take part in the HyStarter process. This initiative aims to speed up the development of a green hydrogen economy. The project involved 48 stakeholders from different sectors over 15 months, running from May 2022 to July 2023. The HyStarter process identified three key areas for action. These include hydrogen production and handling at Bendorf Industrial Port, decarbonising transport and heating, and expanding the hydrogen economy across the Middle Rhine-Eifel-Westerwald region.

Two business surveys showed a regional demand for around 21,000 metric tons of green hydrogen each year. Three out of five economic feasibility scenarios for the Middle Rhine-Westerwald region were deemed viable.

Several companies are already taking steps to support the hydrogen economy. The BDH Clinic in Vallendar has invested in an H2-ready combined heat and power plant and plans to produce hydrogen electrolytically with iph Hähn. Mathias Normann Spedition GmbH & Co. KG intends to switch its truck fleet to hydrogen power and work with GP Joule to build hydrogen infrastructure under the Hy.Bendorf initiative.

Mabanaft Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG is exploring decentralised hydrogen production at the Rhine Port of Bendorf. Contargo GmbH & Co. KG is also interested in sourcing hydrogen in containers for ship refuelling at the same port. A 25-megawatt electrolyser could produce 3,318 metric tons of hydrogen, 26,000 metric tons of oxygen, and 53 gigawatt-hours of waste heat annually. The HyStarter process has set a clear path for Bendorf’s hydrogen future. Companies in the region are already investing in infrastructure and technology to meet demand. The project’s findings highlight the potential for a sustainable hydrogen economy in the area.