European Energy has officially inaugurated its first green hydrogen facility in Måde, near Esbjerg in Denmark, marking the developer’s first venture into large-scale hydrogen production using renewable energy.
Construction of the plant (pictured) was completed in June 2024 and after a successful commissioning phase, the site is now operational with the first electrolyser supplied by the Danish company Stiesdal.
Plans are already in place to expand the facility with two additional electrolysers, of which the next is expected to be installed in 2025.
When all three units are operating, the plant will have a total capacity of 12MW and an expected annual production of 1500 metric tonnes of hydrogen.
“With the start of operations at Måde, we can deliver green hydrogen to the market,” said European Energy chief executive Knud Erik Andersen
“This achievement demonstrates that the transformation of our energy systems is not just a distant vision – it’s happening right now. European Energy is proud to be at the forefront of this change.”
The green hydrogen produced at the Måde facility will be supplied to the Port Esbjerg and an industrial gases company.
Excess heat generated from the hydrogen production process will be utilised by DIN Forsyning, the local heating utility in Esbjerg municipality, further contributing to the de-carbonisation of the municipality.
Centrica will serve as the facility’s balancing and optimisation partner, ensuring energy usage and fuel production are efficiently managed to maximise output and minimise costs.
The operation of the plant will provide valuable insights into green hydrogen production and operations for European Energy, said the developer.
“This facility is just the beginning,” said European Energy executive vice president and head of power-to-X Emil Vikjær-Andresen.
“Through the many learnings we have captured by designing, constructing and commissioning the plant, we will be able to reduce cost and time for future plants while improving project economics.
“This is pivotal for helping to decarbonise industries that are hard to directly electrify.”
European Energy is currently in the commissioning phase of its Kassø green methanol facility, which is expected to produce the first green methanol by the end of 2024.