Engie EPS has unveiled a hydrogen-based energy storage system built with its proprietary technology in Agkistro, Greece.

Aiming to demonstrate the advantages of hydrogen-based technologies for renewable energy storage in isolated and off-grid areas, the equipment consists of a hydrogen “Power-to-Power” system made by an electrolyser, converting electricity into hydrogen (Power-to-Gas), and a fuel cell system, converting hydrogen stored in large quantities back to electricity (Gas-to-Power).

The system will benefit from the continuous availability of the renewable hydroelectric energy that allows to minimise the Power-to-Gas sizing, while covering peak load request and guaranteeing back up energy thanks to the 500kWh hydrogen storage equivalent net energy.

Engie EPS’ technology will enable Greek renewable energy player Horizon to supply an energy independent agri-food processing unit, using part of the produced energy from the nearby Horizon-owned hydroelectric plant to produce hydrogen, which will be then stored and used for power generation when needed.

“With the finalisation of the Agkistro’s plant, our hydrogen proprietary technology is now proven in four continents as the only available option to make microgrids 100% green,” said Carlalberto Guglielminotti, Engie EPS’ CEO and General Manager.

“For the future, we are also targeting utility-scale opportunities as system integrator and technology provider, leveraging our patented technology platform and unparalleled hydrogen and storage experience for our Industrial Solutions product line.”

Developed in the frame of the EU-H2020 funded project Remote area energy supply with multiple options for integrated hydrogen-based technologies, the project has been awarded the best renewable energy project in the Innovation section at the European Sustainable Energy Week 2020.