Linde to build ‘world's largest’ PEM electrolyser for green hydrogen

Linde has unveiled plans to build, own and operate what it claims will be the world's largest PEM (proton exchange membrane) electrolyser plant at the Leuna chemical complex in Germany.

The new 24 MW electrolyser will produce green hydrogen to supply Linde's industrial customers through the company's existing pipeline network. In addition, Linde will distribute liquefied green hydrogen to refuelling stations and other industrial customers in the region. The company reports that the total green hydrogen produced will be able to fuel approximately 600 fuel cell buses, driving 40mn km and saving up to 40,000 t/y of CO₂ tailpipe emissions.

The electrolyser will be built by ITM Linde Electrolysis, a joint venture between Linde and ITM Power. The plant is due to start production in 2H2022.

‘Clean hydrogen is a cornerstone of the German and EU strategies to address the challenge of climate change. It is part of the solution to help reduce CO₂ emissions across many industries, including chemicals and refining,’ says Jens Waldeck, President Region Europe West, Linde. ‘This project shows that electrolyser capacity continues to scale up and it is a stepping stone towards even larger plants.’