World's first 30MW-class pure hydrogen gas turbine starts operation in China

The world's first 30-megawatt-class pure hydrogen gas turbine, "Jupiter I", has begun stable power generation in China, operating entirely on hydrogen since Sunday. The demonstration project marks a milestone, proving that the gas turbine technology can convert electricity into hydrogen and then back into electricity at a 30-megawatt capacity.

The project integrates wind power, photovoltaic energy and an electrolytic water hydrogen production system. It addresses a key challenge of renewable energy—substantial waste during off-peak hours—by storing excess electricity as hydrogen and converting it back to power during peak demand. 

Compared to thermal power generating units of the same capacity, "Jupiter I" can reduce carbon emissions by over 200,000 tonnes per year, according to Wang Yongzhi, general manager of Mingyang Hydrogen Gas Turbine Technology. He added that the turbine generates 48,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per hour if operating in combined-cycle mode, enough to meet the daily power demand of 5,500 households.

Once in operation, the project will help smooth fluctuations in renewable energy output and improve grid regulation. This model will be a viable solution for energy transition and support the development of China's renewable power system with hydrogen energy utilization at its core.

(With input from agencies)