ESB looking into hydrogen exports from Ireland to Germany

Irish energy and utility company ESB is set to lead a study that will evaluate the production of green hydrogen and its derivatives in Ireland and the potential transportation pathways to export any excess to Germany.

The project, named HYreland, will be delivered in collaboration with the German government and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC).

The main body of work will be performed by the German research institute Fraunhofer ISE, alongside the International Energy Research Centre (IERC) located in Ireland, with input provided by selected associated industrial partners.

The project will focus on the economic and technical aspects that would emerge from a cross-border hydrogen agreement between Ireland and Germany, ESB said, adding that the evaluation will be based on two specific locations at ESB sites in Moneypoint, County Clare, and Aghada, County Cork, with preliminary results set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Jim Dollard, Executive Director of Generation & Trading at ESB, commented: “In order to support electricity systems, green hydrogen will be a source of clean energy that can be utilised when electricity produced by wind and solar is low. Similar studies conducted in other parts of the world, provide a reference and benchmark for Project HYreland going forward. We look forward to working closely with DECC and the German government to develop the ongoing energy co-operation between Ireland and Germany.”

German Ambassador to Ireland David Gill stated: “Green Hydrogen will play a decisive role in the green transformation in Europe. I am confident, that our bilateral initiative will provide significant input to the overall effort. Based on the results, we will be able to use the full Irish potential in this respect for Germany and for Europe at large.”

According to ESB, HYreland will mark the first project of the energy partnership between Ireland and Germany as outlined in their joint declaration of intent.