AKROS Energy GmbH has inaugurated a pilot plant for its salt-based hydrogen storage technology at the H2APEX site in Laage, Germany. This development marks a significant step towards industrial-scale validation of a chemical hydrogen carrier designed for pressureless, non-toxic storage and transport, addressing a key challenge for the burgeoning hydrogen economy.
Industrial-Scale Validation of a Chemical Carrier
The pilot plant, inaugurated on May 5, 2026, demonstrates the feasibility of AKROS Energy's proprietary catalyst system at an industrial scale. The technology utilizes an aqueous solution of potassium bicarbonate, a common industrial chemical, which reacts with hydrogen to form potassium formate. This loaded salt is stable, non-toxic, non-flammable, and can be stored indefinitely. At the point of use, the reaction is reversed to release hydrogen on demand. Johannes Emigholz, CEO of AKROS Energy, highlighted the technology's potential for "a safe, low-cost and infrastructure-light pathway to bring hydrogen from regions where it can be produced abundantly to the industrial markets that need it."
Collaboration and Funding for Technology Scale-Up
The realization of the pilot plant involved significant contributions from industry partners Evonik and Siemens, who have been involved in the technology's scale-up. The project is also a central component of the FormaPort R&D collaboration, a publicly funded initiative supported by the State of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and co-financed by the European Union. AKROS Energy leads this collaboration, which also includes LIKAT, TAB, and Hochschule Wismar.
Addressing Hydrogen Transport and Storage Barriers
The safe and scalable long-distance transport and storage of hydrogen remain critical hurdles for the widespread adoption of a hydrogen economy. AKROS Energy's salt-based carrier offers a potential solution by enabling pressureless and non-toxic handling, which could simplify infrastructure requirements and enhance safety compared to compressed or liquefied hydrogen. This approach aims to facilitate the movement of hydrogen from production hubs to industrial consumers, supporting diverse applications.
Key Takeaways
- AKROS Energy has inaugurated an industrial-scale pilot plant for its salt-based hydrogen storage technology.
- The system uses potassium formate as a stable, non-toxic, and non-flammable hydrogen carrier.
- The pilot plant is a result of collaboration with industry partners Evonik and Siemens and public funding through the FormaPort R&D project.
- The technology aims to address challenges in the safe and scalable long-distance transport and storage of hydrogen.
EnergyInsyte's Take
The inauguration of AKROS Energy's pilot plant represents a tangible advancement in chemical hydrogen storage solutions. As the company transitions towards market entry, the performance and economic viability of this salt-based carrier at scale will be crucial for its adoption by industrial buyers, utilities, and infrastructure investors seeking reliable and safe hydrogen logistics.
Source: Businesswire
