The ROAD2X research project, with an investment of DKK 18 million from the Innovation Fund, is working on a breakthrough to improve the operation of high-temperature electrolysis plants.
The goal is to extend the lifespan of these electrolysis plants to over ten years, a significant improvement from the current two-year average.
Power2X: A key to a sustainable future
Power2X refers to the use of renewable electricity, such as from wind turbines and solar panels, to produce synthetic fuels.
This technology is seen as crucial in the transition to greener energy systems, enabling the production of sustainable fuels like methanol.
High-temperature electrolysis plays a key role in this process, converting electricity into fuel. However, these electrolysis plants currently have a limited operational life, primarily due to technical challenges like impurities and temperature fluctuations that damage the units over time.
Addressing technical issues with AC:DC operation
The ROAD2X project aims to solve these problems by developing a new operating method called AC:DC operation.
This innovative technique, patented by Dynelectro’s founder, Søren Højgaard Jensen, is designed to combat the two main issues that shorten the lifespan of electrolysis plants—temperature fluctuations and contamination by impurities.
By stabilising the conditions within the electrolysis units, AC:DC operation could extend their life well beyond the current average of two years.
Søren Højgaard Jensen highlights the potential of this new method, stating: “The ROAD2X project is of great importance for making AC:DC operation and high-temperature electrolysis ready for commercialisation.
“When the project is completed, it will open up new possibilities for electrolysing CO2 and producing, for example, green methanol.”
Collaboration for innovation
The ROAD2X project brings together five key partners: Dynelectro, Finnish-Estonian electrolysis company Elcogen, Ålborg University, the Technical University of Denmark, and European Energy.
Each partner plays a crucial role, from advanced testing to analysing the business potential of high-temperature electrolysis for producing green methanol.
With a total budget of DKK 24 million and a timeline of three years, the ROAD2X project could pave the way for more reliable and longer-lasting electrolysis plants, advancing the Power2X technology and supporting the transition to a sustainable energy future.
