STORAG ETZEL Hits 90-Tonne Hydrogen Milestone

  • STORAG ETZEL injects 90 tonnes of hydrogen into repurposed salt caverns as part of the H2CAST Etzel project.
  • Hydrogen purification plants planned for 2025 will ensure optimal quality of stored hydrogen.
  • Approval was secured for pipeline connection to the H2 core network, reducing reliance on truck deliveries.

STORAG ETZEL has reached a significant milestone in its H2CAST Etzel project by injecting hydrogen into converted salt caverns. This move advances the company’s initiative to use its underground storage for hydrogen.

The project converts salt caverns, once used for oil and natural gas, into hydrogen storage sites. STORAG ETZEL has stored 90 tonnes of hydrogen in these caverns, showcasing the potential of this technology. The company transported hydrogen, compressed to 300 bars, by truck and injected it into the caverns, replacing the brine inside.

Carsten Reekers, STORAG ETZEL’s project manager, confirmed that tests on two caverns in 2024 proved the infrastructure could safely store hydrogen. Despite the emerging hydrogen market, STORAG ETZEL has stored several tonnes of hydrogen at a pressure of 170 bars. The company plans to ramp up operations by summer with three weekly truck deliveries. In total, 200 deliveries will fill the caverns.

The next phase of the project, set for 2025, focuses on building hydrogen purification plants. These facilities will ensure that the stored hydrogen meets quality standards. STORAG ETZEL continues capitalising on its caverns’ flexibility and scalability, preparing for the growing hydrogen market.

Although the site lacks a direct hydrogen pipeline connection, STORAG ETZEL has secured approval to connect to the H2 core network. This connection will provide a continuous hydrogen supply to the caverns, reducing dependence on truck deliveries.

The State Office for Mining, Energy, and Geology (LBEG) oversees the project to ensure it follows all regulations. With decades of experience in underground energy storage, STORAG ETZEL remains well-prepared to lead this pioneering hydrogen storage effort.

“We’ll be ready when the hydrogen market fully develops,” said Reekers, highlighting the company’s readiness for the future.

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