CIP launches green hydrogen project in Northern Germany

CIP has partnered with Freiser Elektra to launch an 800MW green hydrogen project in the Northern Germany region.

Danish investment firm, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) has partnered with energy supplier Friesen Elektra Green Energy AG (Friesen Elektra) on project Anker.

The scheme is set to feature a green hydrogen production facility in Sande which is proposed to contain an 800MW electrolysis capacity.

According to CIP, the facility will commence with a 400MW capacity and then later expand to 800MW at a later stage.

Through its commitment to an increased renewable source output, CIP have noted that its new complex will seek to produce 80,000 tons of green hydrogen annually.

Felix Pahl, Partner at CIP emphasised the companies increasing interest in hydrogen production.

Pahl said: “Project Anker has the potential to make an important contribution to Germany’s journey towards a carbon-neutral future. At CIP, we continue to see a large potential in green hydrogen despite slower than expected market development and we remain committed to investments in large-scale renewable infrastructure solutions to decarbonize energy-intensive industries.

“We look very much forward to bring the project to realization together with our new partners at Friesen Elektra and to a constructive collaboration with the German authorities”.

CIP further emphasised how the project can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 2.4 million tons annually, aligning their plans with goals set by the EU.

As previously reported, the EU set targets to reach a net reduction of 90% of emissions by 2040.

Project Anker is set to feature a varied network of renewable energies which includes offshore and onshore wind, as well as solar energy.

Christian Gätje, CFO of Friesen Elektra added: “We are delighted to welcome CIP and its highly skilled, experienced team as a strategic investor and development partner in our Hydrogen Park Friesland.

“This collaboration is a major step towards creating one of Germany’s premier hydrogen production sites. Together, we aim to accelerate the energy transition and advance decarbonization by leveraging our combined strengths and expertise”.

According to reports from the European Hydrogen Observatory, forecasts for hydrogen demand are predicted to see large trajectories over the coming years. Forecasts highlight a striking 127% surge from 2030 to 2040.