Study on water supply for a 1-gigawatt electrolyzer, Heide

Feasibility study highlights opportunities and risks of an H2 electrolyzer with regard to the local drinking water supply

Climate change and the growing difficulty of securing water supplies present society with many challenges. For example, limited water resources are causing conflicts of interest between municipal drinking water supplies and the needs of agriculture and industry.

Water supplies must be secure

Drees & Sommer specialists have conducted a case study examining the technical feasibility of supplying water to a 1 GW electrolyzer. The Miele reservoir in the district of Dithmarschen would serve as the water source for the project. The clear objective is to ensure that groundwater resources for the drinking water supply remain uncompromised.

As part of the study, the experts addressed the following questions, among others:

• What quantities of raw water can be provided for the application?
• What measures are necessary for water extraction, transport, and treatment?
• How can a brine wastewater disposal concept be established for ultrapure water treatment?
• What are the regulatory requirements for approval?
• What is the realistic time frame and cost for implementing the water supply for the electrolyzer?

Drees & Sommer placed particular emphasis on identifying and involving the relevant stakeholders in the study. 

Added value

• Close and trusting communication with the client – from kick-off to regular coordination meetings to the final presentation
• Adherence to the set schedule and budget
• Involvement of relevant stakeholders (approval authorities, dike association, anagen manufacturer, municipality, etc.) 

Services

• Feasibility study