Bendorf's Bold Leap Toward a Green Hydrogen Economy in Germany

Bendorf in Rhineland-Palatinate is emerging as a potential hub for green hydrogen. The region was selected as one of 15 areas in Germany for the HyStarter process, aimed at accelerating a green hydrogen economy. From May 2022 to July 2023, 48 participants from different sectors took part in the HyStarter initiative. Three key action areas were identified: hydrogen production and handling at Bendorf Industrial Port, decarbonisation of transport and heating, and scaling up the hydrogen economy across the Middle Rhine-Eifel-Westerwald region.

A feasibility study is now underway to assess the port’s potential as a future hydrogen hub. Two business surveys revealed an annual regional demand of around 21,000 metric tons of green hydrogen. A 25-megawatt electrolyzer could produce 3,318 metric tons of hydrogen, 26,000 metric tons of oxygen, and 53 gigawatt-hours of waste heat each year.

Local companies are already taking steps to support the transition. Mabanaft Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG is exploring decentralised hydrogen production at the Rhine Port of Bendorf. Contargo GmbH & Co. KG has shown interest in procuring hydrogen in containers for ship refuelling at the same location. Mathias Normann Spedition GmbH & Co. KG plans to convert its truck fleet to hydrogen power and build hydrogen infrastructure in Bendorf.

The BDH Clinic in Vallendar has also invested in an H2-ready combined heat and power plant. It intends to produce electrolytic hydrogen on-site. The HyStarter process has laid the groundwork for Bendorf’s role in Germany’s hydrogen future. Businesses and institutions in the region are already investing in infrastructure and technology to meet the growing demand. The feasibility study will determine the next steps for Bendorf Industrial Port.