Ireland Achieves Competitive Green Hydrogen Production Costs, Study Shows

Germany's Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (Fraunhofer ISE) has identified Ireland as a competitive location for large-scale green hydrogen and power-to-X production, according to a new methodology developed with Irish energy company Electricity Supply Board (ESB).

The study examined hydrogen-based products including liquid hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, dimethyl ether, and e-kerosene, calculating full supply chain costs from production through delivery to Rotterdam, Duisburg, and Stade. Results show Ireland's green hydrogen production costs are comparable to Morocco, South Africa, and Brazil, though slightly higher in some cases.

Ireland's strategic advantages include strong renewable energy expansion plans, grid flexibility needs from rising electricity demand, a skilled workforce, established industrial expertise, and a stable investment environment. Hydrogen supplied to Germany via pipeline would cost between €160 and €205 per megawatt hour including transport costs.

Separately, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) announced seven shortlisted projects for the Hydrogen Headstart Program's second round, spanning multiple states with applications in ammonia production and alternative fuels. Additionally, France-based Qair opened hydrogen refueling stations in Béziers and Narbonne, each supplying up to 600 kg daily for commercial vehicles and fleets.

Estonia-based Elcogen launched its elcoStack E3000 G2 solid oxide fuel cell and electrolyser platform, designed for scalable manufacturing with improved efficiency and lower operating temperatures than conventional systems. Meanwhile, thyssenkrupp nucera reported nearly quadrupling order intake to €316 million in the second quarter of 2025/2026, with order backlog reaching €732 million.

Originally reported by PV Magazine. Read the full article →