Siemens to use hydrogen as a means of storing energy

The system is based on PEM (proton exchange membrane) technology, in which electricity decomposes water into hydrogen and oxygen. If the electrolysis uses electricity from regenerative sources, the hydrogen is generated with almost no effect on the climate.

Roland Kaeppner, head of the Siemens Hydrogen Electrolyzer Business Unit responsible for this development, said: “The investment in the field of hydrogen is an important step toward further widening our environment portfolio. We're offering a technology that exploits the potential of hydrogen for industrial processes and storing energy.”

The production of hydrogen provides a source of energy which can be stored and used anywhere. Hydrogen can also be transformed into primary energy in many ways, such as feeding it back into gas turbines, adding it into the natural gas supply, or in material-sensitive recycling. Kaeppner added that Siemens intended to develop PEM electrolysis technology into the three-digit megawatt range for industrial applications.

Hydrogen is already playing a significant role in many industrial production processes, and serves as fuel for fuel cell powered vehicles. On account of its high energy density, it is also regarded as a potential key technology for the storage of large quantities of energy. This means that hydrogen will be able to make a substantial contribution toward integrating renewable energies into the electricity-supply system.

The Siemens Industry Sector (Erlangen, Germany) is the worldwide leading supplier of environmentally friendly production, transportation and building technologies. With integrated automation technologies and comprehensive

industry-specific solutions, Siemens increases the productivity, efficiency and flexibility of its customers in the fields of industry and infrastructure. In fiscal 2010, which ended on September 30, 2010, revenue from continuing operations of the Industry Sector (excluding Osram) totaled around €30.2 billion. At the end of September 2010, Siemens Industry Sector had around 164,000 employees worldwide without consideration of Osram. Further information is available on the Internet at: www.siemens.com/industry.

The Siemens Industry Solutions Division (Erlangen, Germany) is one of the world's leading solution and service providers for industrial and infrastructure facilities comprising the business activities of Siemens VAI Metals Technologies, Water Technologies and Industrial Technologies. Activities include engineering and installation, operation and service for the entire life cycle. A wide-ranging portfolio of environmental solutions helps industrial companies to use energy, water and equipment efficiently, reduce emissions and comply with environmental guidelines. With around 29,000 employees worldwide (September 30), Siemens Industry Solutions posted sales of €6.0 billion in fiscal year 2010. www.siemens.com/industry-solutions