Supply and Disposal

Study on water supply for a 1GW electrolyzer, Heide

Study explores opportunities and risks of H2 electrolyzer for local drinking water supply for the first time

© Drees & Sommer

Client

Entwicklungsagentur Region Heide AöR

Location

Dithmarschen District

Project duration

February 2025 – September 2025

Other characteristics

- Water extraction: 3.57 million m³/year
- Water requirement for electrolyzer: 200 m³/h (excluding cooling water requirement) 

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
Go to projects

Are you facing a similar challenge?

Get in touch with us!

We look forward to hearing from you.

SUBJECT_1