Power-to-X Province Utrecht, NL

The challenge

Rapid electrification and an increase in production of renewable electricity lead to imbalance and congestion of the electricity grid. The transition to zero-emission mobility compounds these challenges, due to the uptake of battery-electric vehicles. In industrial areas with high heat demands and many transport movements, this can hamper new developments. Can integrated, smart energy systems with other energy carriers help?

Solution and Impact

We have explored the possibilities of local, smart energy systems, comparing the results with fossil-fuel-based and electrification-based references. Integrating heat and hydrogen into the local energy systems, while bringing demand and production of energy together, can greatly reduce capacity of the required grid connection. Moreover, the investments in assets and cooperation lead to lower total costs of ownership.

Status

The exploration was concluded by KWR in the first half of 2024. As a result, local governments and entrepreneurs are now looking beyond purely electricity-driven energy hubs.

Learn more here.