| The SURFER project aims to facilitate the widespread deployment of variable renewable energy sources (VRES) by demonstrating the use of flexible electrolysers as dynamic energy buffers and stabilise multiple types of energy networks, focusing primarily on power grids, but also considering heat valorisation and isolated or weak grids. SURFER will validate the capabilities of PEMEL, AEL and SOEL electrolysers to rapidly modulate their operation to accommodate fluctuations in renewable energy supply, grid demand and waste heat when available. Through multiple demonstrations across diverse European sites, including operational environments in France, Germany, and Norway, the project will improve the integration of these electrolyser technologies into the energy system. The partners will be the first in the world to provide grid services with electrolysis plants. To achieve these objectives, the partners will demonstrate the dynamic operational flexibility of electrolysis plants, understand and model their dynamic behaviours, innovate power electronics for improved responsiveness, integrate these plants effectively into energy grids, simplify the RFNBO certification processes, while ensuring rigorous safety standards under dynamic operational conditions, and reducing the LCOH for wider access to renewable hydrogen. SURFER's multi-disciplinary consortium of leading research institutions, (hydrogen) industry experts, and grid operators will address the complexities of electrolyser dynamics and energy system integration, significantly advancing beyond the state-of-the-art. SURFER will enable electrolysis plants to make additional revenues from power grid stabilising, also making the latter more resilient and decarbonised with increased VRES penetration and maximisation of their use. The project will improve energy security and drive down costs thanks to additional sources of revenues and heat integration, thus supporting Europe's energy transition goals. |
- Reference
- 101250344
- Project duration
- 1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2029
- Project locations
- Norway
- EU contribution
- €6 000 000
- Project website
- Cordis
Stakeholders
Coordinators
SINTEF AS
- Address
- Norway