Dortmund-based plant manufacturer thyssenkrupp nucera AG & Co. KGaA and Fraunhofer IKTS agree on a strategic partnership for high-temperature electrolysis (SOEC).
The mechanical and plant engineering industry has long seen decarbonization potential in hydrogen and the fuels and combustibles derived from it. In addition to PEM electrolysis and AEL electrolysis, SOEC electrolysis (solid oxide electrolyzer cell electrolysis) is another technology for producing green hydrogen. Due to the use of steam at high operating temperatures, SOEC technology is particularly efficient and is currently still in the important phase of testing pilot plants.
Dortmund-based plant manufacturer thyssenkrupp nucera AG & Co. KGaA and Fraunhofer IKTS want to work together to produce “green hydrogen”. As part of a strategic partnership, thyssenkrupp nucera and Fraunhofer IKTS want to work together to take the final steps in high-temperature electrolysis (SOEC) towards industrial application. In the first quarter of 2025, a pilot plant planned and built by Fraunhofer IKTS in Arnstadt, Thuringia, is set to go into operation for the production of high-temperature electrolysis stacks with SOEC cells, initially in small quantities.
The high energy efficiency of SOEC technology will primarily benefit industries in which industrial waste heat is generated during production, as its use significantly reduces electricity consumption. Waste heat is generated during the production of green steel, ammonia, methanol, fertilizers and energy storage, among other things. In addition, the use of high-temperature technology eliminates the need for rare precious metals.