Green hydrogen: A transformative energy journey of an ammonia plant 

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Green hydrogen outlook

As the world decarbonizes, the emergence of green hydrogen stands as a pivotal force in the energy transition landscape. Forecasts indicate that the green hydrogen market is poised to exceed USD 515.66 billion by 2035, experiencing a remarkable CAGR of 61% from 2023 to 2035, showcasing the immense potential and rapid growth of this sector. 

Green hydrogen, embedded within the REDII & REDIII guidelines in Europe and the IRA guidelines in the USA, is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of fuels, particularly Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Substantial investments are already underway in Europe, with example initiatives such as the European Hydrogen Backbone (EHB), a multibillion-dollar endeavor focused on establishing a hydrogen pipeline network. 

The challenge of renewables and green hydrogen 


Renewable power plays a central role in producing green hydrogen, acting as the new upstream for this lightweight molecule. However, the complexity of the green hydrogen production process mirrors that of oil refining, compounded by the intermittency and non-dispatchability of renewable power, and the challenges in transmitting and distributing it. To facilitate the transport of green hydrogen, coupling it with carriers such as ammonia and methanol becomes essential, which makes the integration of chemical process plants necessary. 

Integrated green hydrogen project with Shuimu Mintal 


At Schneider Electric, we recognize green hydrogen as a cornerstone for growth. With digital platforms such as Autogrid, ETAP, and AVEVA and products for power distribution, digital controllers, and AI, we are uniquely positioned to be a key partner in major green hydrogen projects.  

In a groundbreaking endeavor, Schneider Electric recently signed a cooperation agreement with Shuimu Mintal (Damao) Hydrogen Energy Technology Co., Ltd. Under this agreement, Schneider Electric as the industry’s first vendor combining the integrated simulation of  process and power will work with Shuimu Mintal to develop a digital twin of this end to end power to H2 to ammonia compound and optimize the entire process from green power to green hydrogen and green ammonia. This project represents the first fully integrated green hydrogen project, encompassing a 1.4GW onshore windfarm with 750MW of green hydrogen capacity and the world’s first variable ammonia plant.  

Fu Xiaolong, Vice President of Beijing Tsinghua Industrial R&D Institute and General Manager of Shuimu Mintal with Schneider Electric leaders after signing a cooperation agreement on behalf of Shuimu Mintal (Damao) Hydrogen Energy Technology Co., Ltd.

Co-simulation enables optimizing design and operations 


For such green hydrogen plants, electrical power becomes the driving factor of production and only a co-simulation platform simulating both power flows from generation to end use with H2 production process can help optimizing levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH). The co-simulation also serves as a vehicle for optimizing design complexities, capital and operational expenditures. Furthermore, this integrated platform or digital twin identifies operational scenarios, aids in developing control strategies, and establishes safety controls at the early stages of the project, providing invaluable insights for the operation of a green hydrogen plant, and ultimately reducing project risks. 

The unified power and process sizing and optimization through our unique co-simulation platform have led to remarkable reductions in storage requirements and process optimization. Additionally, our extensive expertise, partnerships with OEMs and research institutes, and development of techno-commercial modeling tools have significantly optimized the overall project economics of green hydrogen initiatives, ultimately amplifying the value chain for integrated power and process. 

Electrification consulting drives value for industries 


In projects such as this one consultative approach offers substantial value to customers and partners, helping them obtain a comprehensive view of the integrated power and process through the digital twin and draw maximum benefits from its capabilities. With a focus on driving significant reductions in CAPEX and OPEX while enhancing yields and reliability, experts get actively engaged in supporting companies in the conceptual and design phases of green hydrogen projects, collaborating with research institutes on advanced hydrogen technologies, and partnering with electrolyzer OEMs to explore various technological avenues. 

As the green hydrogen landscape continues to evolve, Schneider Electric remains dedicated to driving sustainable and innovative solutions, collaborating with industry partners, and pioneering advancements in the energy transition journey. 

Ready to change the game? 

Watch panel discussion led by Gianfranco Monzini VP, Head of Process Electrification Practice at Schneider Electric with top industry players.

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