News from the construction Site – The April Update

Progress was also made at the Energiepark Bad Lauchstädt in April and May. As part of the phased commissioning process, important technical tests are continuing—with a particular focus on electrolysis.

Progress on the electrolysis plant

Work on the three electrolysis modules continues to proceed according to plan. The modules form the heart of hydrogen production: here, water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity from renewable energy sources.

An important current step is the so-called hot tensioning, which has now begun on the first two modules. This is a special technical process in which certain bolted connections and components are readjusted under controlled conditions at realistic temperatures. This ensures that the plant remains permanently leak-tight and stable during later operation.

The water treatment plant is also making further progress. It ensures that high-purity water is available for electrolysis—an important prerequisite for the safe and efficient operation of the plant. The 600-hour test run currently underway serves to test the systems over an extended period under real-world conditions.

Expansion of the security infrastructure

Further measures have also been implemented in the area of infrastructure. For example, VNG Gasspeicher GmbH has begun installing additional camera towers. Video surveillance serves to secure the construction site and supports safe operations during the ongoing construction and commissioning phase.

Hydrogen pipeline remains stable under operational gas

The future hydrogen pipeline to the refinery remains filled with hydrogen. This so-called “preservation” under hydrogen protects the pipeline while enabling ongoing testing.

Regular sampling continues to show stable trends: The concentration of hydrogen in the pipeline is settling as expected. The measurements thus once again confirm the safe condition of the converted infrastructure—an important step with a view to the future transport of green hydrogen to Leuna. 

Top photo: The gas processing plant is currently being prepared for TÜV certification.

Bottom photo: The first two electrolysis modules are currently undergoing hot tensioning.