Revolution in engine construction: WTZ Roßlau is researching hydrogen innovation!

Revolution in engine construction: WTZ Roßlau is researching hydrogen innovation!

Could the future of mobility lie in hydrogen? This question is currently preoccupying researchers and engineers in Germany, particularly at the WTZ (Scientific and Technical Center) in Roßlau. Engineer Karsten Stenzel recently presented his newly developed hydrogen engine, which is equipped with an integrated hydrogen injector in the cylinder head. This innovation could represent a significant step towards climate-friendly drive technologies, such as MDR reported.

The WTZ looks back on an impressive 75-year research history and specializes in the development, construction and testing of large, train and marine diesel engines. In the historic halls of the institute, where complete engines were previously assembled for series production, work is now being done to develop the technologies of the future. Long-time toolmaker Roland Förster, who has been with the company for 47 years, has built numerous special machines during this time.

Competence from a single source

The WTZ currently employs around 80 people. Before the fall of the Wall there were still 400. The company's compact structure contributed to the stability of operations. The WTZ offers its customers not only design and construction, but also comprehensive testing options from a single source. In the upcoming innovation projects, the WTZ has set itself the goal of ensuring the competitiveness of its customers and further expanding the range of expertise. They rely on teamwork, quality and reliability, among other things WTZ illustrated.

A special highlight is coming up for May 2026. The 14th Dessau Gas Engine Conference will take place in Roßlau, where the focus will be on current topics such as hydrogen, methanol and alternative fuels. This conference could help to intensify exchange and networking within the industry.

Hydrogen as the key to climate neutrality

The importance of hydrogen for future energy supply is also clear in the national hydrogen strategy, which explains that Germany wants to build an electrolysis capacity of 10 gigawatts by 2030. The hydrogen demand in Germany is expected to be between 95 and 130 TWh in 2030, with 30 to 50 percent of the hydrogen to be produced domestically. This commitment is also reflected in the current plan to advance the market for climate-friendly hydrogen and synthetic fuels BMF highlights.

For example, the use of hydrogen in the steel industry can save up to 28 tons of CO2 if hydrogen is used instead of coal. This would allow Germany to take on a pioneering role in international competition when it comes to the production of climate-friendly hydrogen.

The research at the WTZ in Roßlau and the associated developments could be crucial for Germany to achieve its climate goals. It remains to be seen how quickly the technologies from the research centers can be put into practice. But one thing is certain: the topic of hydrogen is very important in the industry and will continue to spark discussions.