“Offshore Hydrogen and State of the Art of the Technology”.
Current State of Offshore Hydrogen Production
The report outlines the key components of offshore hydrogen production, which involves converting demineralised seawater into hydrogen using renewable electricity, typically from offshore wind farms. This process, however, is not without its challenges. The integration of multiple technologies under harsh offshore conditions requires careful consideration and innovation.
Three main concepts for offshore hydrogen production are currently being explored: decentralised production at individual wind turbines, centralised production on platforms or artificial islands, and floating production units for deep-water locations. Each of these approaches has its own set of advantages and challenges, depending on factors such as location, scale, and existing infrastructure.
Technological Advancements in Electrolysis
At the heart of offshore hydrogen production lies electrolysis, a process that uses electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The report provides a detailed comparison of the different electrolysis technologies, including Alkaline, Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM), and Solid Oxide Electrolysis (SOEC). Among these, PEM electrolysis stands out as the most suitable for offshore applications due to its compact design and operational flexibility, making it ideal for integration with the fluctuating power output of offshore wind farms.
