Topsoe, a leading global provider of advanced technology and solutions for the energy transition, has been awarded a DKK 25 million grant for PowerFactor together with Aarhus University and PlanEnergi. The project focuses on ensuring Power-to-X plants connect safely and reliably to the power grid.
Image Credit: Topsoe
Today, grid integration for Power-to-X plants often requires project-specific studies and documentation. This case-by-case approach creates uncertainty, long approval processes and risks that new plants interfere with the stability of the power grid. The PowerFactor project focuses on making this process more consistent and predictable by developing standardized methods and best practices on how Power-to-X plants connect to and operate with the grid.
Kim Grøn Knudsen, CIO at Topsoe, said:
“The PowerFactor project is focused on removing one of the key challenges for successful large-scale deployment of Power-to-X plants and scaling of green fuels. Today, grid access and compliance are among the biggest obstacles for new plants, and we believe we can demonstrate a standardized, reliable approach that works for both developers and grid operators.”
The project will include Topsoe hydrogen technologies, such as eREACT™ and Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cells (SOEC). PlanEnergi will support the project with their knowledge of resource saving systems, and Aarhus University with academic research through their Biological & Chemical Engineering and Electrical & Computer Engineering departments. In the project, the partners will combine electrolysis, electrified reforming and methanol production technologies with advanced grid emulation tools. This will help the partners identify and reduce grid-related disturbances and define best practices for reliable operation – while supporting a stable power system.
The PowerFactor project will use pilot facilities at Aarhus University’s Power-to-X site in Viborg.
About the PowerFactor Project
The PowerFactor project will test how Power-to-X plants interact with the electricity grid under realistic operating conditions. Using pilot units and grid emulation, the project will identify and mitigate power-quality challenges (such as harmonics and disturbances that can spread between plant and grid) and translate the findings into practical guidance for future projects.
The project will also validate the integration of Topsoe technologies, such as the electrified reactor technology eREACT, SOEC electrolysis and methanol synthesis technology including improved steam integration to identify optimal power-utilization strategies.
Collectively, the project will deliver validated models and best-practice, grid-compliant and efficient operational guidance to de-risk early commercial Power-to-X projects.
About Innovation Fund Denmark and MissionGreenFuels
Innovation Fund Denmark aims to provide grants for research, knowledge-based innovation and entrepreneurship that lead to the strengthening of research areas and the development of technology and innovative solutions.
As part of Innovation Fund Denmark, the research and innovation partnership MissionGreenFuels is dedicated to support Danish research, innovation, growth, jobs and export potential within green fuels.