The GRASSHOPPER project aims to create a next-generation MW-size Fuel Cell Power Plant unit (FCPP), which is more cost-effective and flexible in power output, accomplishing an estimated CAPEX below 1500 EUR/kWe at a yearly production rate of 25 MWe. Large MW size PEM FCPP have been demonstrated, such as in the DEMCOPEM-2MW project, however at too high Capex level and without dynamic operation features for grid support. Grasshopper tackles these issues enabling a controlled, renewables-based energy infrastructure. The power plant will be demonstrated in the field as 100 kW sub-module pilot plant, implementing newly developed stacks, MEA’s and BoP system components, combining benefits of coherent design integration. Cost and technical optimisation will be achieved with improvements targeting MEAs (increasing current density, active area, reducing material costs incl. Pt loading), stack design (increasing stack size, power density and operating pressures, while streamlining manufacturability) and overall system balance of plant (modular design, simplified header and manifolds for gas distribution, high efficiency PV inverters, using off-the-shelf equipment where possible). This unit will be operated continuously for 8 months in industrially-relevant environment for engaging grid support modulation as part of an established on-site Demand Side Management (DSM) programme. This consortium unites component suppliers (JMFC, NFCT), research institutions (ZBT, Polimi) and integrators (AI, INEA) who will partner with existing energy market stakeholders (DSO, TSO) and EU smart grid projects committed to participate as advisory board members. This collaboration maximises the business case value proposition, by ensuring the delivered technology will respond to grid services’ requirements for flexible dynamic power operation. Innovative DSM programmes will be completed to establish the best path forward for commercialization of the technology for a fast response FCPP.

HYDRAITE project aims to solve the issue of hydrogen quality for transportation applications with the effort of partners from leading European research institutes and independent European automotive stack manufacturer, together with close contact and cooperation with the European FCH industry. In this project, the effects of contaminants, originating from the hydrogen supply chain, on the fuel cell systems in automotive applications are studied. As an outcome, recommendations for the current ISO 14687 standards will be formulated based on the technical data of the impurity concentrations at the HRS, FC contaminant studies under relevant automotive operation conditions, and inter-compared gas analysis. The methodology for determining the effect of contaminants in automotive PEMFC system operation will be developed by six leading European research institutes in co-operation with JRC and international partners. In addition, a methodology for in-line monitoring of hydrogen quality at the HRS, as well as sampling strategy and methodology for new impurities, gas, particles and liquids, will be evolved. Three European laboratories will be established, capable of measuring all of the contaminants according to ISO 14687 standards, and provide a strong evidence on the quality and reliability on their result. Beyond the project, the three laboratories will offer their services to the European FCH community. In addition, a network of expert laboratories will be set, able to provide qualitative analysis and the first analytical evidence on the presence or absence of these new compounds with potential negative effect to the FCEV. The efficient dissemination and communication improves the resulting data and input for the recommendations for ISO standards of hydrogen fuel. The project and its results will be public, to boost the impact of the project outcomes and to enhance the competitiveness of the European FC industry.

The ambitious CleanH2shipping project unites ports, research organisations, technology providers and a ship operator, with the aim of developing and implementing a viable hydrogen ecosystem and showcasing the potential of hydrogen fuel-cell-powered inland and short sea shipping. Our vision extends beyond mere demonstration; we aspire to catalyse widespread adoption across Europe and beyond. Unlike land-based hydrogen applications for vehicles, there are no international regulations for safe use of hydrogen at sea, rivers or in ports. The volume required to power marine vessels is of an entirely different magnitude compared to road transport vehicles, and any potential accident could have far-reaching consequences. This lack of regulations is one of the main barriers to implementing hydrogen at scale, as shipbuilders, ports, shipowners, and logistics providers require clarity before committing to a new technology. Another major barrier are high investment costs for the production and port infrastructure and high operating costs of hydrogen-powered vessels. To realise the vision of hydrogen-powered shipping, CleanH2Shipping will engage policy makers and authorities to advocate for harmonised regulations, demonstrate the complete hydrogen supply chain and create a blueprint for replication in other European ports and ships. Innovative swappable hydrogen fuel tank containers, "H2Tank-Tainers," will be used, hence no investment in port infrastructure is required. Our demonstration with the 610 TEU inland container ship Letitia, featuring a 1.2MW fuel-cell main drive, will showcase sustainable shipping. Further standardisation, efficiency enhancements, scaling and AI-based container logistics will further decrease CAPEX and OPEX costs to build an H2 ecosystem. With our goal to lay the foundation of a H2 ecosystem in and around the European ports, this project can make a significant contribution to achieve the “Fit for 55” goals and significantly reduce CO2 emissions