Thyssenkrupp Nucera Receives Federal Funding for Gigawatt-Scale Alkaline Water Electrolysis Production and Develops High-Temperature Soec Technology with Fraunhofer IKTS
Thyssenkrupp Nucera US and its partner De Nora have received funding to work on automated manufacturing of gigawatt-scale alkaline water electrolysis production lines in the US. Dr. Werner Ponikwar, CEO of Thyssenkrupp Nucera, highlighted the importance of transitioning to automotive-like mass production to best position their business in the US. This grant is part of $750 million in funding for 52 projects across the US, marking the first significant federal funding of electrolysis technologies under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Meanwhile, Thyssenkrupp Nucera is also preparing for the future of electrolysis by partnering with research institute Fraunhofer IKTS. The companies aim to develop high-temperature solid oxide electrolyser cell (Soec) technology for industrial manufacturing and application. By early 2025, a pilot plant built by Fraunhofer IKTS will produce high-temperature electrolysis stacks using Soec technology, initially in small quantities. Thyssenkrupp Nucera has also obtained a license to produce and use stacks based on Fraunhofer technology.
The companies believe that Soec technology will benefit industries such as green steel, ammonia, methanol, and fertilizers, as it significantly reduces electricity consumption and eliminates the need for rare precious metals. This innovative technology utilizes industrial waste heat generated during production, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for various industries.
As part of this partnership with Fraunhofer IKTS, Thyssenkrupp Nucera is also working on developing a new generation of Soec cells that can be used at even higher temperatures than current commercial cells. This will enable increased efficiency and productivity in various industries while reducing their carbon footprint.
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