The project, supported by the British Embassy in Kyiv through the InnovateUkraine competition, aims to revolutionize energy production in Ukraine by leveraging renewable sources to produce green hydrogen.
Project Details:
Hydrogen Production Plant:
- The initial electrolysis capacity of the new plant will be 100 MW.
- Expected production capacity: 7-8 thousand tons of hydrogen per year, approximately 400-750 tons per month.
- Production cost: 1.5-2 liters of water and 4.5 kWh of electricity per cubic meter of hydrogen.
- By-products: Oxygen (used in construction, medicine, agriculture) and methanol (a universal solvent for various industries).
Renewable Energy Sources:
- Construction of solar power plants with a capacity of 120 MW.
- Construction of wind power plants with a capacity of 80 MW.
- These renewable sources will ensure a reliable power supply to the hydrogen production plant, capable of withstanding external interruptions.
Financial and Development Aspects:
- The British Ministry of Foreign Affairs will finance 70% of the comprehensive feasibility study (FEA), with the remaining 30% covered by Voden Ukraine.
- AB5 Consulting is responsible for developing the feasibility study document.
- The feasibility study will pave the way for attracting external investments for the construction of the plant.
- Estimated total investment: EUR 300-400 million, covering the plant, renewable energy sources, and infrastructure for transporting hydrogen to the EU.
- Construction is expected to begin in two years after all necessary research and documentation are completed.
Market Competitiveness:
Cost Efficiency:
- The production cost of hydrogen at the Reni plant is expected to be 5 euros per kg, potentially reducible to 4.5 euros under certain conditions.
- This cost is significantly lower than in the EU, where hydrogen costs about 12 euros per kg and is predominantly "grey" hydrogen (produced from natural gas).
Competitive Edge:
- Ukrainian green hydrogen is poised to compete effectively in the European market, particularly as a liquefied product for refueling vehicles.
- Despite the higher production cost compared to grey hydrogen, advancements in production technology are expected to reduce the cost of green hydrogen over time.
The H2U project represents a significant step towards sustainable energy production in Ukraine, with the potential to establish the country as a key player in the European green hydrogen market. The integration of solar and wind power plants ensures a robust and reliable energy supply, while the financial support from the British government underscores the project's viability and importance.
