Hydrogen storage facility in a pine forest featuring two large white tanks and a building, all labeled H2

Conversion technologies

Flexibility for the energy transition 2.0: renewable energies are not always available on demand. Conversion technologies (Power-to-X) make excess energy storable and versatile - from green hydrogen for the industry to climate-friendly fuels for the transport sector and sustainable heat supply. Thus, renewable energy is utilized not only for the power grid but also drives the transformation of industry, mobility, and heat markets forward – for example with hydrogen buses or the production of green steel.

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Power-to-X: value creation through flexible energy use

Power-to-X technologies convert excess electricity from renewable sources into hydrogen, ammonia, methane, or synthetic fuels, thus creating a versatile energy source for industry, power and heat production, and the transport sector. These processes enable efficient sector coupling, optimize transport and storage processes, and enhance economic value creation along the entire H₂ chain. The flexible use of stored energy allows for the optimal integration of renewable energies, increases the security of supply, and progressively replaces fossil fuels.

Future energy in focus: hydrogen

How is the demand for hydrogen storage developing?

70-100 TWh

Storage needs for hydrogen in Germany until 2045. This development shows how essential hydrogen is as an energy carrier of the future.

Source: BMWK

How much green hydrogen is currently being produced?

5 %

Only a small portion of the hydrogen used in Germany comes from renewable sources and is produced through electrolysis.

Source: KFW https://www.kfw.de/PDF/Download-Center/Konzernthemen/Research/PDF-Dokumente-Fokus-Volkswirtschaft/Fokus-2024/Fokus-Nr.-475-November-2024-Wasserstoff.pdf

Power-to-Gas

Energy for all sectors

Power-to-gas technologies convert excess electricity into gaseous energy carriers like hydrogen, which can be flexibly stored and utilized. Hydrogen powers emission-free vehicles replaces fossil resources in the industry and contributes to a more sustainable heat supply by blending into the natural gas network. As a link between electricity, heat, transport, and industry, Power-to-Gas facilitates efficient sector coupling and comprehensive decarbonization.

Graphic representation of hydrogen production using renewable energy sources, from left to right: solar panels and wind turbine, electrolyzer, and hydrogen molecule symbol

Power-to-Liquid

Fuel for sectors hard to electrify

According to Fraunhofer ISE, Power-to-Liquid (PtL) involves the production of synthetic liquid fuels such as kerosene, diesel, or gasoline from green hydrogen and CO₂. This process enables the use of renewable energies in the form of liquid fuels, which can be utilized in existing infrastructures such as gas stations and combustion engines. Particularly in sectors difficult to electrify, such as aviation and maritime transport, PtL offers a promising solution for the energy transition.

Illustration of energy conversion: Solar panel and wind turbine generate electricity used for electrolysis to produce hydrogen, which is then converted into fuel

Power-to-Heat

Efficient heat from renewable electricity

Power-to-heat technologies convert surplus electricity into heat, which can be used for heating systems or industrial processes. Renewable energy is efficiently fed into district heating networks through heat pumps and electric boilers. This cost-effective solution supports the integration of renewable energies into the heating sector and replaces fossil fuels such as gas and oil.

Schematic representation of renewable energy conversion, featuring a solar panel and wind turbine connected through a battery to a radiator

Advantages at a glance

Intelligently connecting sectors

With conversion technologies, renewable electricity is not only used for the power grid but is also integrated into other sectors such as heating, transportation, and industry. This connection, known as sector coupling, creates synergies: energy surpluses can be utilized in various ways, such as heating buildings, powering electric vehicles, or supplying industrial facilities. The result is a more efficient and future-oriented use of renewable energy.

Flexible power grid, less curtailment

With conversion technologies, excess electricity generated on windy or sunny days can be stored and used later. Without these technologies, wind turbines or solar panels would have to be shut down because the power grid cannot absorb the energy—a process known as curtailment. Innovative solutions ensure the efficient use of renewable energy, increase grid flexibility and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Our commitment to a sustainable energy future

Progress within communities

In harmony with the environment

Research meets practice

Group of adults and a dog walking on a path in a rural area

Several people walking down a narrow path surrounded by green trees, one person is leading a dog on a leash

Progress within communities

By supplying regional industries with green hydrogen, we create local value and promote a sustainable economy. Injecting green hydrogen into the natural gas network or using waste heat from conversion processes for heating demonstrates the versatility of these technologies. Moreover, hydrogen refueling stations open new prospects for the transportation transition and strengthen regional infrastructure.

Panoramic view of a green forest with diverse vegetation under a cloudy sky

View of a forested valley with diverse vegetation in daylight

In harmony with the environment

From site selection to commissioning, we ensure the preservation of natural habitats and minimize environmental impact. Innovative approaches such as low-emission processes, waste heat recovery, and the integration of eco-friendly materials ensure that the energy transition does not come at the expense of nature. Thus, we combine technological efficiency with ecological responsibility.

Young curly-haired woman with a lanyard standing and presenting on a laptop to seated colleagues in a conference room

A young woman presenting in a meeting room in front of a group of businesspeople sitting at a table and listening

Research meets practice

EEF advances the development of conversion technologies through close collaboration with universities, research institutes, technology companies, and startups. Together, we analyze market trends, conduct pilot projects, and leverage synergies to strategically implement technological advancements. Strategic partnerships form the foundation for innovative and forward-thinking solutions.

Illustration of a sustainable energy ecosystem featuring wind power, solar energy, hydrogen technology, and electric vehicles

Hybrid parks

Energy interconnected: holistic concepts of the future

Hybrid parks combine wind energy, photovoltaics, storage, and conversion technologies into an intelligent, holistic concept. This comprehensive approach ensures consistent power generation that facilitates the continuous and efficient operation of conversion technologies such as electrolyzers. Excess electricity that cannot be fed into the grid is converted into storable energy carriers like hydrogen or heat, enhancing flexibility and security of supply. By sharing infrastructure like grid connections and storage systems, land synergies are created and costs are reduced. Simultaneously, hybrid parks contribute to the cross-sector integration of renewable energies in transportation, industry, and heating supply, creating significant value in the community and thereby playing a key role in environmental protection and economic efficiency.