From Waste to Watts: Transforming Wastewater into a Sustainable Resource
The production of green hydrogen takes place in a Power-to-X plant, where electrolysis converts electricity into hydrogen by splitting water molecules (H2O) into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O). It requires very large amounts of electricity, and it requires very large amounts of water. Up to 4 million m3 of water alone for the two upcoming PtX plants in Esbjerg. In order not to drain groundwater resources unnecessarily and to protect drinking water resources, different thinking is required.
That’s why both H2 Energy Esbjerg and HØST PtX Esbjerg have signed agreements that the water they will use for their plant in the future will come from treated waste water from DIN Forsyning's two large treatment plants in Esbjerg, Denmark.
A strong commitment to sustainable solutions
This ground-breaking initiative showcases Denmark's commitment to sustainable practices and its position as a frontrunner in the green energy sector. It is an eco-friendly approach that not only addresses wastewater management but also contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions.
In Denmark, we have a strong tradition for public-private partnerships, which this initiative is a perfect example of. Collaboration between companies, research institutions, and government bodies is essential in driving forward such pioneering projects, creating a robust ecosystem for innovation and growth.
And the implications of this development extend beyond Denmark's borders. As the world increasingly recognizes the importance of green hydrogen in decarbonizing various sectors, Denmark's expertise in wastewater-based hydrogen production serves as a model for global innovation and collaboration.
Facts DIN Forsyning
- Annually cleans approx. 24 million m3 of waste water – of which 15 million m3 in Esbjerg alone.
- It is expected that the two PtX plants will use between 3 and 4 million m3 of water annually for electrolysis.
- For comparison, the total drinking water consumption in DIN Forsyning's area (Esbjerg and Varde) is approx. 8 million m3 per year.
- Large industry consumers of water will first of all be offered purified waste water and then ground water that is not suitable for waste water.
facts HØST PtX Esbjerg
- Ammonia plant based on hydrogen with 1 GW electrolysis plant.
- Expected price of approx. 15 billion kroner.
- 100-150 permanent jobs in Esbjerg.
- DIN Forsyning will take excess heat from the plant, which can heat 15,000 households.
- Expected to be ready for production in 2029, after which the plant will supply green ammonia for green fertilizer and green marine fuel.
facts H2 Energy Esbjerg
- Hydrogen plant with 1 GW electrolysis capacity.
- 60-70 permanent jobs in Esbjerg across several professions and up to 700 jobs in the construction phase.
- The facility produces CO2-neutral excess heat in quantities that will correspond to heating more than 40,000 households.
- Planning the establishment of a hydrogen distribution hub in Taulov and hydrogen filling stations across Denmark.