Hitachi Energy has unveiled its HyFlex hydrogen-powered generator pilot project at Skanska's construction site at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden.
The initiative marks the first customer site demonstration in Sweden, demonstrating the potential of the HyFlex generator to aid in the decarbonisation of heavy industries.
Skanska Sweden CEO Magnus Persson said: “Fossil-free construction sites are important to the construction sectors striving for net-zero emissions. To succeed in the climate transition, cooperation with other sectors is crucial.
“This test was made possible by the great teamwork with Hitachi Energy, Volvo, and other partners.”
HyFlex Hydrogen Power Generator is said to be at the heart of Hitachi Energy's hydrogen-to-power solutions.
The HyFlex unit, powered by green hydrogen supplied by Linde Gas, generates clean electricity for a charging station.
This station, in turn, powers a Volvo electric excavator engaged in civil work at the site.
The HyFlex generator operates emission-free, producing AC power, usable heat, and water as byproducts.
The electricity generation process in the HyFlex involves fuel cells that create a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.
This method eliminates the production of nitrous oxide and sulphur oxide emissions, as there is no combustion involved.
The HyFlex generator can potentially mitigate up to 1,600 tons (t) of diesel fuel annually, which is said to translate to a reduction of approximately 5,800t of carbon dioxide emissions.
In addition, the HyFlex generator is scalable, incorporating fuel cell modules, power electronics, cooling systems, auxiliaries, and an intelligent control system.
PowerCell Group, Hitachi Energy's technology partner, has contributed to the power modules and expertise in fuel cell integration.
Encased in a transportable container, the HyFlex unit is also noted for its minimal noise output during operation.
Hitachi Energy Grid & Power Quality Solutions and Service business head said: “The joint project in Sweden is a testament to what is possible when like-minded companies come together with a common goal. Such collaborative efforts are crucial to maturing breakthrough technologies and accelerating the industry's journey to carbon neutrality.”
Currently, Hitachi Energy is developing a range of modular variants of the HyFlex generator to cater to diverse markets and applications.
Last year, Hitachi Energy and BAM Nuttall were selected to supply two HV DC converter stations for Eastern Green Link 2, spanning across the UK.
