Power-to-X and Water
The production of green hydrogen and other Power-to-X fuels requires large quantities of ultrapure water for the electrolysis process. To ensure stable and sustainable operation, Power-to-X plants require advanced water purification technologies and reliable water sources. We help plant owners to ensure stable and sustainable water supplies for Power-to-X production.
The Danish Technological Institute can assist facility owners with:
- Water purification for Power-to-X
- Treatment of concentrate from RO (reverse osmosis) processes, including the removal of environmentally hazardous pollutants
- Water sources and the upgrading of water quality for Power-to-X
- Technology screening regarding water purification technologies
We conduct testing both in our laboratories and on-site using our mobile laboratories—all to provide you with data and a basis for decision-making grounded in a specific, real-world scenario.
Furthermore, the Danish Technological Institute can assist technology suppliers with the development, testing, and documentation of water treatment technologies.
FAQ
How much water does a Power-to-X plant actually require? In practice, producing 1 kg of hydrogen requires approximately 10–13 kg of water. A good rule of thumb for the electrolysis process itself is about 200 liters of water per hour per MW of capacity (excluding cooling water, which often requires significantly larger volumes).
Which water sources should we choose for our Power-to-X plant? This depends entirely on the plant’s location, size, and local environmental conditions. Although drinking water is often the easiest solution, it faces increasing political and public opposition. We assist plant owners in screening and upgrading alternative water sources—such as shallow groundwater, surface water, or treated wastewater. This ensures your security of supply without placing a burden on local drinking water resources.
Why is ultrapure water critical for the electrolysis process? Electrolysis plants require ultrapure water (UPW) with extremely low limits for salts, trace elements, and organic compounds. Even minimal impurities can affect the electrolysis electrodes (PEM/AEL/SOEC), drastically reducing efficiency or damaging the expensive electrolysis stacks. Our experts and accredited laboratories help define, ensure the quality of, and continuously monitor the precise water quality, helping you protect your multi-million investments.
How do we handle the concentrate and residual streams from the water treatment process? When producing ultrapure water—for instance, via reverse osmosis (RO)—you are left with a significant volume of concentrated residual water (concentrate), which often contains environmentally hazardous or non-biodegradable substances. This can create major challenges in discussions with environmental authorities regarding discharge permits. We can assist you by analyzing the concentrate, testing post-treatment technologies, and designing solutions to reduce the presence of environmentally hazardous substances.
What regulatory requirements and environmental rules should you be aware of? These requirements depend on the water source, the purification technology used, and the nature of the discharge. We help you establish the necessary technical and data-driven foundation required for discharge permits and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). Our independent reports and documentation provide the authorities with the assurance they need to approve your project.
How do you get started with a project or a technology screening? Typically, we begin by clarifying your needs and reviewing your current and future water consumption. Following this, we can structure a project that includes analyses, testing, and recommendations.