LEAG stops hydrogen project: politics blocks progress in Boxberg!

LEAG stops hydrogen project: politics blocks progress in Boxberg!

In today's world, hydrogen production in Germany is faced with different challenges. A current report by MDR points out that LEAG has to put its plans for a hydrogen power plant in Boxberg for the time being. The political and economic framework did not develop as expected, which hinders the originally planned construction preparations.

The preparations for the construction of the hydrogen power plant in Boxberg were in full swing when the federal power plant security law (KWSG) of the federal government became a decisive hurdle. This draft law provided for financial subsidies for hydrogen power plants, but the disintegration of the traffic light coalition before the law was adopted left these plans in the floating.

developments at the political level

The power plant security law, which was initiated as part of the Federal Government's growth package, is only progressing slowly. The BMWK has already published cornerstones for implementation that comprises new tenders for hydrogen-capable gas power plants and long-term storage. Conversion from up to 7 GW gas power plants to 100% hydrogen operation that are to be realized at short notice are planned.

These delays not only affect Leag, but also affect the entire industry. Politicians have recognized the importance of hydrogen as an energy source. According to the Bdew , hydrogen is the key to achieving the climate goals in Germany. But the structure of a functioning hydrogen economy is still in its infancy and requires clear political framework.

The role of hydrogen

hydrogen is regarded as an essential energy source of the future. Across various sectors, from industry to traffic to electricity generation, climate-neutral gases such as hydrogen should contribute to CO2 reduction. Political guidelines are necessary to realize this vision. The measures include funding of up to 1.4 billion euros from the national innovation program hydrogen and fuel cell technology, which is to run between 2016 and 2026

The challenges are diverse and the question arises as to whether and when the next federal government will introduce concrete support for hydrogen power plants. The uncertainty not only hinders projects such as in Boxberg, but also all the progress in the hydrogen economy. It remains to be seen how quickly the political framework can be adapted to advance the urgently needed market high run.