30 Aug 2023
Vienna, Austria: In a promising development, the Donaustadt heat and power plant in Vienna is witnessing the successful implementation of green hydrogen integration. A collaborative effort between Wien Energie, Siemens Energy, RheinEnergie, and Verbund, this innovative project marks a significant step towards decarbonization in the energy sector.
The Green Hydrogen Transition Unfolds Vienna's municipal energy company, Wien Energie, is spearheading the gradual infusion of green hydrogen into a cogeneration facility, in partnership with Siemens Energy. This groundbreaking endeavor involves the adaptation of Siemens Energy's SGT5-4000F turbine to accommodate the integration of green hydrogen alongside natural gas. The initiative has already yielded impressive results, with the share of green hydrogen reaching an impressive 15%.
Siemens Energy's Vital Role Siemens Energy's Vice President for South East Europe, Ali Prešern, emphasized the importance of operational tests in driving the decarbonization of the energy sector. Over 115 gas turbines of the same type as the one used in the Donaustadt plant are operational across Europe, with a combined capacity exceeding 31 GW. The ongoing trials serve as a crucial stepping stone towards a more sustainable energy landscape.
A Collaborative Endeavor for a Greener Future RheinEnergie and Verbund, the remaining project participants, share similar turbine models and intend to leverage the insights gained from this initiative for their own facilities in the future. With a total allocation of EUR 10 million, this project represents a significant investment in advancing the integration of green hydrogen within the energy sector.
Pathway to Progress The testing process is divided into phases, with the first segment set to be completed by mid-September. During this phase, the share of green hydrogen in the combined heat and power plant will be increased to a remarkable 15%. Subsequent phases aim to elevate this level to an impressive 30%, marking a significant advancement in the integration of renewable energy sources.
A Holistic Approach to Decarbonization The aspirations of Wien Energie, Siemens Energy, and their collaborators extend beyond the immediate project. Siemens Energy is also pioneering the introduction of heat pumps in district heating systems, while RheinEnergie aims to create the largest heat pump system in Europe in Cologne. This multifaceted approach underscores the interconnectedness of various energy sectors and highlights the potential for green hydrogen to play a pivotal role in achieving decarbonization goals.
Vienna's Vision for a Carbon-Neutral Future Aligned with the broader ambitions of Vienna, the city plans to achieve complete carbon neutrality by 2040. The current strides in green hydrogen integration at the Donaustadt plant serve as a testament to the city's commitment to sustainable energy practices and its determination to lead the charge towards a greener, more environmentally-conscious future.