European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Topsoe Approves Construction of World's Largest SOEC Electrolyzer Plant

At a glance
  • Topsoe is investing over DKK 2 billion in the plant.
  • Construction starts in the second half of 2022.
  • The plant will have a 500 MW capacity, expandable to 5 GW.
  • 170 people will work at the site when fully operational.

Investment and Capacity

Topsoe has committed over DKK 2 billion to construct the world’s largest SOEC electrolyzer manufacturing plant in Herning, Denmark. The facility will have an initial manufacturing capacity of 500 MW per year, with the potential to expand to 5 GW.

Construction Timeline

The final investment decision was made on August 24, 2022, and construction is set to begin in the second half of 2022. Once fully operational, the plant will employ 170 people.

Technological Advancements

SOEC technology consumes less electricity compared to alkaline and PEM technologies, making the process more efficient, especially with the integration of a steam feed. This positions the new facility as a significant step towards advancing power-to-x technology and green fuel production.

Strategic Goals

The plant supports the REPowerEU ambitions, following a Joint Declaration signed in May 2022 with other industry leaders and the European Commission to increase European electrolyzer manufacturing capacity tenfold by 2025. This initiative aims to accelerate the green energy transition and reduce dependence on fossil fuels in Denmark and the EU.