Testbed Leader: ECUBES
Ulica Gradnikove brigade 49, 5000 Nova Gorica, Slovenia
Director (or representative): Aleksander Gerbec
Contact: Mojca Golež (mojca.golez@ecubes.eu)
Project Description
This project involves a highly deployable, containerized energy storage and power generation solution with 1MWh capacity, using an innovative hydrogen carrier. It will be implemented in remote areas to support hydrogen-powered vehicles or EV charging. Developed by Ecubes from TRL2 to TRL6, it has already been tested at the Salonit cement factory. Over the next two years, it will reach TRL8 and undergo extensive testing.
The solution enables renewable hydrogen production and its use in a closed-loop system, addressing intermittent renewable energy issues by integrating transport, stationary power, or seasonal storage. A fuel cell, combined with innovative hydrogen storage, provides on-demand energy.
The project also supports hydrogen as fuel for refuelling stations or general energy use, with a goal to reduce CO2 emissions. Distributed across five locations in three countries, it’s expected to save 5,000 tons of CO2 annually, with a feasibility study for large-scale investment.
Key Metrics
The testbed project uses fuel cells (FC) for distributed power generation, converting hydrogen into electricity with high efficiency, durability, and silent operation. It stores energy as liquid hydrogen, a compact and efficient carrier ideal for long-term storage and transportation. In this project, it powers EV charging stations, demonstrating hydrogen’s potential in clean mobility.
The system operates in a closed-loop process, minimizing waste and optimizing resource use. Designed for flexibility, the containerized energy storage system can be deployed in remote or off-grid locations. It supports clean energy by converting hydrogen into electricity, enabling distributed power generation near the point of use, which enhances efficiency and reduces transmission losses.
A key feature is carbon credit tracking, which quantifies and monetizes greenhouse gas reductions, serving as a model for regions looking to adopt hydrogen-based energy systems. The project targets 1 MWh of energy storage with liquid hydrogen for use in EV charging stations, with a total budget of €5.6517 million, covering hydrogen production, storage, and equipment.
Impact and Benefit
The project will promote the adoption of hydrogen-based technologies among businesses, SMEs, and research institutions. By demonstrating the viability of hydrogen production, fuel cells, and energy storage, participants will be able to integrate these technologies into their operations, contributing to decarbonization efforts, particularly in smart communities.
Participants in energy production, storage, and distribution will benefit from the flexible, containerized system, which can be deployed in various settings, from rural areas to urban centers. The project will also provide real-time data to help participants optimize energy use and better understand hydrogen’s potential, guiding future decisions and investments.
Current Status
The testbed pilot is assembled from various components, including a reactor, regenerator, washer, condenser, compressor, fuel cells, and a hydrogen liquid carrier. Shortcomings were identified in the reactor and washer, both at TRL6. Significant progress has been made with the regenerator, advancing it to TRL7 by implementing new chemical engineering for material recovery, conducting simulations, and preparing mechanical and electrical designs using advanced components.
Eco-design principles were incorporated to enhance sustainability. The system has been fully assembled and programmed for automation and safety, with a cold start underway.
The ORYX GREEN ADRIATIC BLUE initiative, launched at the World Economic Forum in January 2023, promotes sustainable development and green energy in the Adriatic region, focusing on hydrogen and clean energy technologies.
Future Plans
The next steps involve refining key components of the testbed, focusing on chemical, mechanical, and electrical optimizations to improve automation and efficiency. We will start with a “cold start” of the Regenerator TRL7 to test mechanical and electrical functions. After successful insulation, full-scale testing will be conducted to fine-tune system performance, optimize energy use, and ensure ECO efficiency.
Once the components are ready, we will fully integrate the testbed with automation to minimize manual intervention and enhance safety. All safety protocols, especially for chemical processes and heat management, will be implemented. We are also collaborating with stakeholders on solutions for long-distance hydrogen transportation, including potential imports to the North Adriatic region.