The Republic of Ireland has significant wind energy potential, with the total offshore wind resource alone being sufficient to comfortably meet the country’s electricity needs. As both on and offshore wind capacity is being developed, this resource is being utilised to generate green hydrogen as well as electricity.

Black & Veatch is supporting the development of one of Ireland’s first co-located onshore wind farm and hydrogen electrolysis plants, in the west of the country. A 75-megawatt (MW) wind farm will power an electrolyser plant generating green hydrogen; the design takes into account scalability, with a modular approach affording the potential to expand capacity up to 300 MW

The developer’s model is to combine local knowledge with international best practice in renewable energy development. For this project they also needed proven hydrogen expertise. With a deep track record in both, Black & Veatch’s initial role in the project was the feasibility studies that informed all aspects of the hydrogen development.

Black & Veatch helped the client understand which combination of electrolyzer technology and size, as well as hydrogen storage and transport options – and water supply alternatives – best met the project’s business goals. This was achieved through the development of multiple scenario studies and conceptual site layouts. Black & Veatch will also develop an outline design for optimal configuration of the facility

Providing such complete analysis required a team with expertise in hydrogen, renewable energy generation, and the interfaces between them. To achieve this the EMEA team was able to draw upon expertise from across Black & Veatch’s entire business.