Tecnalia develops prototype electrolyser to test hydrogen production technologies

Tecnalia, the largest applied research and technological development centre in Spain, has developed a prototype electrolyser capable of testing different hydrogen production technologies.

The experimental hybrid bench is designed to test the components of an electrolyser, whilst also being capable of producing green hydrogen.

The equipment allows companies to test the various components of an electrolyser, mainly its core or stack, operating at approximately 50 kW and with a hydrogen production capacity of around 1 kg/h.

Tecnalia’s prototype electrolyser is capable of testing different hydrogen production technologies

Following commissioning, Tecnalia has already started tests and demos with national and international companies at its facilities.

The electrolyser is located in a laboratory specialised in the development of technologies for the generation, storage, transport, distribution, use and safety of hydrogen that Tecnalia launched last year at its facilities in Donostia-San Sebastian.

More than 50 projects are currently being developed for the research and validation of hydrogen technologies, as well as their scaling up to accelerate industrialisation.

Of the four technologies capable of producing green hydrogen, this experimental bench is capable of testing two different types: alkaline and AEM electrolysis.

Designed entirely by Tecnalia, this prototype will be able to test the electrolyser stack as well as balance the plant components under different operating conditions. It also includes advanced tools to monitor key process parameters.

Ekain Fernández, Head of Hydrogen Technology at Tecnalia, said "We work closely with companies to achieve competitive green hydrogen production. To this end, we research and develop innovative electrolysis technologies with the aim of reducing hydrogen costs while supporting companies with the testing and modelling of electrolysers for their implementation in industry.

“The launch of this prototype electrolyser is a major step in our commitment to contributing to the development of a hydrogen economy."

For more information, visit www.tecnalia.com.