Abstracts - The 2025 HyValue Days
On this page you will find abstracts and bios for the presenters at the 2025 HyValue Days, 7-8 May.
On this page you will find abstracts and bios for the presenters at the 2025 HyValue Days, 7-8 May.
Programme and registration: The programme will be continuously updated here: The 2025 HyValue Days.
Kamila Waciega, Director Energy and Infrastructure, Hydrogen Europe.
Abstract:
The focus of this presentation will be on Hydrogen Europe forecasts regarding future supply and demand of clean hydrogen. The analysis will be supported by presentation of the current legal framework put forward by the European Commission following the Green Deal and concretised in the Fit for 55 Package. Is the current legal framework enough to stimulate reasonable clean hydrogen demand? How does it compare with the ambition of the REPowerEU strategy? What is the role of implementation and what is the role of the European Commission in ensuring the right level of implementation across Member States? What should we expect from the Clean Industrial Deal? How can hydrogen industry benefit from a strengthened focus on the competitiveness of the European industry that underlies the CID?
Bio:
Kamila Waciega is Executive Director for Energy & Infrastructure Policy at Hydrogen Europe, a 600-member strong European Association representing the entire hydrogen value chain. Previously she was in charge of access to public funds and energy and climate policy for Dalkia Central Europe Department between 2010 and 2014. Before joining Hydrogen Europe, Kamila was part of Veolia’s Public Affairs Department, where she acted as Director in charge of energy and climate issues. She graduated from Sciences Po Paris and London School of Economics and holds a PhD in Political Sciences, applied to decarbonisation policies in European regions.
Anne Gry Messenlien, Elkem.
Abstract:
Silicon is recognized by the European Union as a critical and strategic raw material due to its high economic importance and supply risk. It plays a vital role in the green transition, serving as a key component in electronics, solar energy, construction, and automotive industry sectors.
Currently, the silicon industry relies heavily on fossil carbon reductants, which are the primary contributors to CO2 emissions during silicon production. A major challenge in decarbonizing silicon production is finding alternatives to fossil carbon reductants. Although biocarbon presents a viable option, it is a scarce resource and in high demand. Additionally, the future availability and cost of fossil carbon are uncertain, complicating the feasibility of carbon capture and storage solutions.
To tackle these challenges, Elkem is pioneering with support from Enova, the Elkem Sicalo® concept, an innovative process that reuses carbon instead of using external reductants. This process utilizes electrical energy and hydrogen. Using hydrogen directly as a reductant in silicon production is not feasible. Instead, the Sicalo concept employs hydrogen indirectly to produce carbon reductants from carbon oxides found in the off-gas. This innovative process is also being developed under the EU Horizon project MECALO, which aims to apply the concept to other metal-producing processes as well.
Two significant hurdles for industrialization are the availability of hydrogen and the lack of mature technology for producing hydrogen and suitable carbon from methane splitting. Industrialisation of a process that converts natural gas into hydrogen and carbon could supply the necessary hydrogen and carbon materials for the metallurgical industry. Such technology is crucial for the industrial implementation of the Elkem Sicalo® concept. Norway, with its abundant natural gas reserves and leading metallurgical industry, presents a promising location for this industrialization effort.
Bio:
Anne Gry Messenlien is R&D engineer at Elkem Technology with a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from NTNU, Norway.
Anne Gry has a key role in the Elkem Sicalo® project as deputy project manager and work package leader for Raw material synthesis. Previously, she has been leading innovative projects, including the IPN project H2Si, which paved the way for the EU Horizon MECALO project. In MECALO she leads a work package focused on developing new raw materials for metal production using pyrolytic carbon.
Her expertise extends to carbon management developing the company's scope 3 methodology for the total value chain and performing Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) for Elkem’s smelters.
She has experience in industrialization of new processes being part of construction and starting up the Elkem Solar plant in Kristiansand. Later having several operational roles including process engineer, quality manager and production manager.
You can reach her at anne.gry.messenlien@elkem.com.
Moritz Siegfried, Endress+Hauser SICK.
Abstract:
Connection hydrogen production and import with hydrogen users, the pipeline infrastructure is a key element for a hydrogen economy. A cornerstone of such infrastructure is the fiscal metering, the precise measurement of transported hydrogen volumes and it’s quality for billing purposes.
The given presentation will start with a brief look at the European plans to establish a H2 pipeline network. Followed by some insights how we managed to develop a technical solution for the fiscal metering with an ambitious timeline and unclear requirements and regulatory framework. In the last section of the speech, we’ll examine remaining hurdles and challenge the timeline on the way to a hydrogen transport and distribution infrastructure.
Bio:
Moritz Siegfried, Endress+Hauser SICK. Graduated as Mechanical Engineer, started his work life as researcher at the Fraunhofer Institute for Solare Energy Systems (ISE), working on solar driven seawater desalination.
Started his Industry career in R+D roughly ten years later changed to product management and joined SICK AG, being responsible for gas analysis systems. 2022 he started the company internal H2-Startup which resulted 2024 in a new Business Unit that is now called “Innovation Lab” and takes care about H2, CCUS and NH3 as energy vector.
Morten Aarra and Behruz Shaker Shiran, NORCE.
Abstract:
Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in porous geological formations such as depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs and saline aquifers is emerging as a key approach for balancing energy supply and demand in transitioning from fossil-based energies to clean and green energy sources. On the other hand, hydrogen storage in such storage sites presents several challenges that must be addressed to ensure the feasibility and efficiency of the storage process. Therefore, more research is needed to understand the mechanisms and dynamic behavior of hydrogen in porous media.
This presentation will focus on core flooding experiments performed in sandstone cores. The effect of hydrogen injection and withdrawal rates on hydrogen storage capacity and the influence of microbial activities on hydrogen storage performance will be discussed.
Bio:
Behruz Shaker Shiran is a senior researcher at NORCE. He holds an MSc in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Kansas, USA, and a PhD in Petroleum Technology from the University of Bergen, Norway. He has been with Uni Research/NORCE since 2010, focusing on experimental studies of fluid flow in porous media, enhanced oil recovery methods, and subsurface hydrogen storage.
Morten G. Aarra is a chief scientist at NORCE. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from UiB. He has long experience from work within both industry and research institutes. His research has been focusing on fluid flow in porous media, EOR, CO2 injectivity and hydrogen storage efficiency.
Pascal Dietzel, UiB.
Abstract:
Metal-organic framework compounds (MOFs) are porous structurally-ordered materials with three-dimensional networks formed in a self-assembly process from metal cations, cationic metal clusters or metal oxide moieties that are linked together by multidentate organic ligands. A virtually limitless number of combinations can be explored, enabling preparation of materials with properties that can be (at least in theory) tailored specifically for targeted applications.
The most important characteristic of MOFs in most applications is their porosity, which can be exploited in gas adsorption and separation processes like hydrogen storage and purification. The chemical versatility of MOFs also makes them excellent candidates for incorporation of catalytic functionality with potential in production of hydrogen or hydrogen-carriers.
The talk will give an introduction to metal-organic frameworks, their role in work task 1.1 and how the activity in this task links to the activities in other tasks in WP1 in HyValue.
Bio:
Pascal D. C. Dietzel is professor for Inorganic Nanochemistry at the Department of Chemistry, University of Bergen. His research interests focus on the preparation and characterization of materials with industrially relevant properties in adsorption and separation, catalysis, sensing and as energy materials for application within energy harvesting or conversion and energy transport or storage related applications. The main activity of the research group is materials discovery and crystal structure determination, characterization of the materials’ fundamental chemical properties, and deduction of the corresponding structure-property relationship using X-ray diffraction techniques, including the frequent use of time-resolved and in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements.
Dietzel’s research group is internationally visible for pioneering works on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)/porous coordination polymers with excellent properties for hydrogen adsorption, CO2 capture and methane storage.
Dietzel received his diploma degree in chemistry from the University of Bonn. He conducted research for his dissertation at the Max-Planck-Institute for Solid State Research in Stuttgart and received his doctoral degree from the University of Stuttgart in 2003. He then joined SINTEF Materials and Chemistry in Oslo (2004-2011), before moving to the University of Bergen in 2011 as Professor for Inorganic Nanochemistry at the Department of Chemistry.
Dhayalan Velauthapillai, WP1, HyValue & Head Advanced Nanomaterials for Clean Energy and Health Applications, HVL.
Abstract:
Achieving large-scale green hydrogen production requires the discovery and development of efficient, durable, and cost-effective catalyst materials. Our research group has been actively engaged in the modeling and synthesis of novel materials for both photocatalytic and electrocatalytic hydrogen production. We have focused on optimizing nanostructured photocatalysts for hydrogen generation, including under challenging conditions such as seawater splitting, addressing key issues of material stability and selectivity. In parallel, we have developed and characterized new electrocatalysts for water electrolysis, targeting improvements in activity and durability. This presentation will outline our integrated experimental approach and highlight key achievements. Looking forward, we are expanding into AI-assisted density functional theory (DFT) frameworks to accelerate material discovery, enabling predictive screening and design of next-generation catalysts. The talk will also discuss current challenges, including corrosion resistance, scale-up potential, and pathways to industrial application.
Moderator: Per Ove Eikeland (FNI).
Dr. Ernst-Arndt Reinecke, Institute of Energy Technologies, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH.
Abstract:
Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH (Jülich Research Center, FZJ) is partner of HyValue in WP4 "Safety Science and Risk", as we consider the safe development and use of hydrogen technologies across a wide range of applications and sectors to be essential for public acceptance and economic benefit. We have obtained a comprehensive overview of hydrogen safety research, both through decades of research in the field of nuclear safety and through our extensive network activities in Europe and beyond.
Alongside user-friendliness and cost-effectiveness, hydrogen safety is the key to the sustainable and long-term introduction of hydrogen as an energy carrier. The challenges that arise are due to the specific properties of hydrogen, which differ significantly from those of gases previously used in energy technology. In addition, new user groups are becoming involved who have limited experience in handling hydrogen and will, in some cases, use hydrogen in large quantities in infrastructures that were not originally designed for this purpose.
Since many years, FZJ has been investigating the operational behavior of catalytic recombiners, which have been used for hydrogen mitigation in nuclear power plants for decades. Simulating hydrogen distribution after leakage plays an important role in verifying the effectiveness of a corresponding safety concept. Examples of applications include maritime LH2 carriers and combined heat and power plants that utilize hydrogen added to natural gas.
Bio:
Ernst-Arndt Reinecke is Head of the Department “Safety Research” at the Institute of Energy Technologies of the Jülich Research Center (FZJ) in Germany. After receiving his Ph.D. from RWTH Aachen University in 1999, he has since performed experimental and analytical research in the field of hydrogen mitigation in both nuclear and non-nuclear applications. He has been contributing to numerous national and international projects and has been a member of the European Hydrogen Safety Panel (EHSP) of the Clean Hydrogen Partnership since 2018.
Dr. Jon Kåre Skiple, NORCE.
Abstract:
Do politicians and citizens support public hydrogen investments? How is democratic support influenced by competing political narratives surrounding hydrogen investments and developments? Hydrogen plays an important role in the green transition. Several countries have made significant investments in hydrogen technologies as a potential solution to decarbonize industries and meet carbon dioxide reduction targets. However, the hydrogen market remains immature and will require continued public investment and policies favorable to the industry. The role of hydrogen in the green transition is therefore largely a political issue that demands difficult prioritization among competing political interests. We present results from a survey experiment that examines and compares Norwegian politicians’ and citizens’ support for different types of hydrogen investments. Our results show moderate support for public hydrogen investments among both groups, and that citizens' support depends on how hydrogen is produced and where emissions are reduced.
Bio:
Jon Kåre Skiple is a senior researcher at NORCE Social Science and holds a PhD in political science from the University of Bergen (2019). Skiple has worked extensively on public opinion, including perceptions of climate change action and views on different hydrogen production methods.
Ingrid Glette-Iversen, Postdoc, University of Stavanger
Abstract:
The growing interest in hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier has increased the focus on ensuring its safe implementation across various applications. A key instrument to obtain a satisfactory level of safety is adherence to regulatory frameworks and guidelines. However, the hydrogen industry faces a complex landscape of various frameworks and guidelines from different regulatory bodies. This complexity can lead to inconsistent safety practices across sectors such as maritime, transportation, and industry, introducing uncertainty and lack of coherence in the interpretation and application of safety requirements. In Norway, this issue is exemplified by the differing frameworks and guidelines set by the Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority (Havtil), the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) and the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB). In this paper, we present a review and comparison of existing risk analysis frameworks and guidelines referred to by the forementioned Norwegian regulatory bodies. The main purpose is to examine the key ideas and methodologies, highlighting differences and similarities in regulatory expectations. Based on the analysis, we provide some recommendations to enhance the coherence and consistency of safety practices within the hydrogen sector, with the aim of contributing to a safer and more efficient adoption of hydrogen technologies across industries.
Bio:
Ingrid Glette-Iversen is a Postdoctoral researcher in the HyValue project, holding a Ph.D. in risk management and societal safety from the University of Stavanger, completed in June 2024. My research focuses on critically reviewing and enhancing current practices in risk assessment and management across various applications. With a strong interest in bridging the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications, my work aims to support the development of more robust and relevant approaches to risk management and decision-making in relation to hydrogen systems and technologies. In addition to research, I teach an introductory course on risk science in the master’s program in risk analysis at the University of Stavanger.
Martin Hennum, Cluster Manager, Ocean HyWay Cluster.
Abstract:
The development of alternative fuels in the maritime sector requires access to large scale and well distributed bunkering facilities and solutions. The very nature of hydrogen and ammonia raises concerns amongst the local population, other industries, politicians and the crews and personnel handling these gases and liquids. What are the concerns regarding safety and how does one overcome these?
Bio:
Martin Hennum is the Cluster manager of the Ocean Hyway Cluster, Norway's leading cluster in developing hydrogen and ammonia as fuels in the maritime sector. He has been active in the hydrogen sector for the last 3 years, focusing on developing relationships between Norway and international partners. Prior to his role in OHC, he has been involved in different energy projects and industrial cooperation, especially between Norway and France.
Kees van Wingerden, VP Industrial Risk, Senior Principal Consultant, Vysus Group, also member of HyValue Scientific Advisory Committee.
Abstract:
In spite of handling hydrogen in industry for more than 100 years and developing high safety standards there still are questions that needs to be answered. A short presentation will address some of these outstanding questions, regarding explosion and fire safety.
Bio:
Dr. Kees van Wingerden has 48 years of experience in the field of gas and dust explosions and industrial safety in general. Work performed comprises R&D, consultancy work, project and company management and sales. He has been involved in numerous accident investigations. Currently his main focus is on hydrogen, ammonia and CO2 safety.
Ashika Dilshani Wackwella Gamage, PhD candidate, University of Stavanger.
Abstract:
Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a key component in the global shift toward cleaner energy sources. Due to its high energy content and environmentally friendly nature can be used in various applications, including fuel cells, industrial processes, and transportation. However, achieving the high purity levels required for industries like electronics and fuel cells remains a significant challenge. Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) is a widely used method for hydrogen purification, utilizing adsorbents like activated carbon and zeolites. However, there is growing interest in using Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) due to their tunable properties and higher selectivity for gas separation. Despite the promise of MOFs, there is a significant research gap in understanding their practical application in PSA systems, especially for large-scale industrial use.
This research project aims to explore the application of MOFs in PSA for hydrogen purification, addressing a key research gap in the field. The study will compare conventional adsorbents, such as activated carbon and zeolites, with MOF materials to identify the most effective options for maximizing hydrogen purity. An ASPEN model will be simulated for the PSA process on these materials. In addition to this, an innovative approach will be explored by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models. An AI model will be developed to predict the most effective MOFs for hydrogen purification, allowing for more efficient material selection and process design.
Bio:
Ashika Dilshani Wackwella Gamage is a PhD candidate working on hydrogen production and purification at the Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Technology, at the University of Stavanger, Norway. The research focuses on advancing hydrogen purification techniques, particularly through Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) employing advanced materials.
Leif Eric Hertwig, PhD candidate, University of Bergen.
Abstract:
Ammonia is a promising carbon-neutral energy source, yet its current production via the Haber-Bosch process is highly energy-intensive, requiring elevated temperatures and pressures, and relies on hydrogen feedstock derived from fossil fuels. In nature, nitrogenase enzymes perform the same transformation under ambient conditions, using water as a proton source. Inspired by this, our research aims to enable green ammonia synthesis at ambient conditions directly from readily available feedstocks — dinitrogen and water. Through density functional theory (DFT) calculations — validated against the gold standard of computational chemistry, DLPNO-CCSD(T) — we uncover detailed mechanistic insights into central steps to the transformation at hand, such as cleavage of the nitrogen-nitrogen triple-bond, and the proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) steps.
This work paves the way for the development of novel, highly active, and robust catalysts suited for industrial-scale application, supporting green ammonia production and reinforcing its role as a carbon-free hydrogen carrier in sustainable energy systems.
Bio:
Leif E. Hertwig obtained his B.Sc. in chemistry from the University of Heidelberg, Germany, in 2019. In 2022 he obtained his M.Sc. in chemistry from the University of Heidelberg, Germany, where he conducted his master’s thesis under the supervision of JProf. Dragoş-Adrian Roşca studying low-valent iron complexes and their application in [2+2]-cycloaddition reactions, synthesizing conformationally restricted N-heterocycles - highly sought after motifs in medicinal chemistry. Currently he is carrying out his PhD work in the research group of Prof. Vidar R. Jensen at the University of Bergen, Norway, focusing on transition metal catalyzed nitrogen activation to synthesize green ammonia from air and water.
Tobias Alexander Slettemyr Jetmundsen, MSc student, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
Abstract:
The maritime sector must lower greenhouse gas emissions to comply with both current and upcoming regulations. Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems are emerging as a promising solution for onboard power generation, offering lower emissions and enhanced system efficiency. The high operating temperature of SOFCs enables fuel flexibility, accommodating fossil, bio-derived, and synthetic fuels. Green methanol is a particularly promising, potentially carbon-neutral fuel due to its low reforming temperature, which facilitates efficient external reforming. Moreover, direct methanol reforming in SOFCs has demonstrated high performance without significant cell degradation.
In this study, a SOFC system configuration for maritime propulsion using methanol, including internal and external reforming as well as anode off-gas recirculation and carbon capture have been designed and simulated using Aspen HYSYS. The performance of this configuration was evaluated through five stages of internal and external reforming. Due to the lack of residual heat in the off-gas, external heat supply from combustion was required, which introduced CO₂ emissions and ultimately resulted in a poor system efficiency of 35.7% under 100% external reforming conditions. Under 100% internal reforming conditions, the system efficiency improves significantly to 66.5%, as waste heat within the fuel cell is effectively used to drive the reforming reaction, minimizing external heat requirements and eliminating CO2 emissions.
Bio:
Tobias Jetmundsen is a 25-year-old master's student in Sustainable Energy Technology at HVL Bergen. His master’s thesis focuses on the simulation of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) for marine applications. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Energy Technology from the same institution, where he completed a thesis on heat integration for waste heat recovery in a hydrogen production plant based on gasification of waste. His education has provided foundation in renewable power production, energy conversion, renewable fuels, and maritime propulsion systems.
Buddhika Karunarathne, PhD candidate, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
Abstract:
Hydrogen is a strong candidate for a solar fuel due to its high gravimetric energy density, which surpasses that of all fuels currently in use. Green hydrogen can be produced by directly splitting water using photocatalysts, a process referred to as photocatalytic water splitting (PCWS). These photocatalysts will absorb sunlight and drive the water splitting reaction to produce O2 and H2. To become commercially viable, the solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiency of PCWS should be at least 6%. To achieve this, Photocatalysts should effectively absorb a wide wavelength range of sunlight, and all absorbed photons should drive the photolysis reaction of water without promoting any undesired side reactions. Bandgap engineering of semiconductors will allow the synthesis of new semiconductors with suitable bandgaps to absorb a wider wavelength range of sunlight and suitable band edge positions for water splitting. The formation of heterojunctions by the incorporation of a suitable co-catalyst into the photocatalysts will promote the efficient charge carrier separation and subsequent water splitting reaction.
Oxynitrides are a promising group of materials that can be used as photocatalysts in PCWS. Changing the oxygen and nitrogen ratio and doping with metal cations changes the absolute positions of the conduction band minimum and valence band maximum of the material, respectively. This allows the synthesis of oxynitride photocatalysts capable of visible light-aided photocatalysis of water. MXenes are a recently discovered, versatile group of two-dimensional (2D) materials. They demonstrate excellent chemical and electrical properties, which make them ideal candidates for cocatalysts in PCWS. In this context, this research project focuses on the production of hydrogen via photocatalysis utilizing oxynitride photocatalysts in conjunction with Mxene cocatalysts, as well as the development of large-scale electrodes and reactors.
Bio:
Buddhika Karunarathne is a PhD research fellow at HVL, affiliated with the Department of Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Mathematical Sciences, within the Advanced Nanomaterials for Clean Energy and Health Applications (ANCEHA) research group. His research focuses on green hydrogen production through photocatalytic water splitting.
Nomcebo Motsa, PhD candidate, University of Pretoria and M.O Daramola, University of Pretoria.
Abstract:
Hydrogen is considered one of the best alternative energy sources to fossil fuels, but its transportation is difficult and costly. Ammonia is instead used as a hydrogen source because it is safer and easier to transport, however, the conversion of ammonia to hydrogen requires a catalyst. In this study, a Co-based catalyst was prepared using three synthesis methods, characterized, and evaluated. Incipient wetness impregnation (IWI), co-precipitation and solgel were used to synthesize Co/SiO2 catalyst samples. The samples prepared were evaluated using SEM, TEM, XRD, and N2 physisorption to obtain information on surface and internal morphology, crystallinity, and surface area respectively. The results thereof were compared with the aim to achieve a catalyst with a large surface area, good metal dispersion, and high metal loading. The catalyst produced through the solgel method displayed the largest BET surface area of 2142 m2/g; as well as the highest metal loading of 20.82 wt.% Co; and good metal dispersion was obtained from both the co-precipitation and solgel method. When all three factors are considered, the solgel method seems best.
Keywords: Hydrogen production, Heterogenous catalyst, Ammonia decomposition, Cobalt catalyst, Silica support
Bio:
Nomcebo Motsa is lecturer in Chemical Engineering (2021) and a PhD student in the University of Pretoria (UP), South Africa. She obtained her BEng (Chemical), BEng (Hons) (Chemical) and MEng(Chemical, Water Utilisation Specialisation) degrees at the University of Pretoria. She also holds a BSc in Maths & Chemistry. Nomcebo is a member of the Golden Key Honour society and the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). She has worked in industry as a process engineer and is currently lecturing Process Dynamics at UP. Her research is situated in the field of clean energy particularly hydrogen production and water treatment. She runs a research team of masters, honours and final year students specialising on catalysis design for hydrogen production. At UP she is part of ‘Women in Engineering’ encouraging girls to pursue engineering. She is also a member of the marketing committee which advertises the benefits of studying a chemical engineering degree to high school students.
Liina Sangolt, PhD candidate, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Abstract:
This study examines the effects of fluctuating power inputs on hydrogen production via alkaline electrolyzers, focusing on hydrogen crossover and its impact on operational efficiency. Using a MATLAB-based model, we analyze diaphragm thickness, ohmic resistance, and current density to determine the optimal balance between flexibility and performance. Results show that minimizing ohmic resistance is more critical than maximizing the operating range for efficient hydrogen generation. These insights contribute to the optimization of electrolyzer design for renewable energy applications.
Sivagowri Shanmugaratnam, PhD candidate, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
Abstract:
The pursuit of efficient and cost-effective photocatalysts based on double-transition metal sulfides holds profound significance, driven by their exceptional catalytic prowess in energy production and storage. In this study, we focused on the hydrothermal synthesis of NiCo2S4 embedded on TiO2 as a nanocomposite with different weight percentages (5%,10%,15%, and 20% wt.) for photocatalytic hydrogen production reactions. The nanocomposites were characterized using X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to confirm the formation of NiCo2S4 on TiO2. Photocatalytic hydrogen production experiments were conducted under 4 hours of extended solar light illumination. The optimum hydrogen production was achieved with 10 wt.% NiCo2S4/TiO2 (31.83 mmol/g), which is 25 times higher than that of pure titanium dioxide nanomaterial. This enhanced activity can be attributed to the urchin morphology of NiCo2S4, as confirmed by SEM, which provides a high specific surface area for active sites and effective separation of exciton pairs in the nanocomposites. In contrast, pure NiCo2S4 did not evolve hydrogen due to the recombination of exciton pairs caused by its small band gap, although it acts as a co-catalyst. This study demonstrates that low-cost, noble-metal-free nanocomposite photocatalysts could be promising candidates for achieving efficient solar-to-hydrogen conversion through water splitting.
Rendani Michelle Sinyage, Master’s Student, Stellenbosch University,
Abstract:
The production of green hydrogen via alkaline electrolysis represents a pivotal sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, significantly contributing to the global transition toward decarbonization. However, despite the increasing adoption of electrolysis technology, there remains a notable gap in the literature regarding comprehensive safety monitoring systems, emergency response strategies, and evacuation procedures for large-scale hydrogen production facilities.
This research aims to fill this gap by conducting a detailed quantitative risk assessment (QRA), gas dispersion analysis, and consequence modeling specific to alkaline electrolyser facilities. The findings will inform the development of robust safety protocols, advanced monitoring systems, and well-defined emergency response and evacuation procedures. These protocols will be universally applicable to any alkaline hydrogen electrolyser facility. Through this holistic approach, the study seeks to optimize the safety, reliability, and operational efficiency of hydrogen production plants, safeguarding personnel, equipment, and the environment.
Bio:
Rendani Michelle Sinyage is a Master’s Student at Stellenbosch University, Department of Chemical Engineering and Department of Fire Engineering. Also an Exchange Erasmus+ Student at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Department of Mechanical and Marine Engineering, Hydrogen Group.
Kristoffer Skjelanger, PhD candidate, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
Abstract:
This poster will present the project plan of Skjelanger. Imposing an external gravity field on an electrolyser can improve its efficiency. This effect is believed to be caused by a decreased bubble coverage at the catalyst surface, increasing the effective reaction surface. This could be explained by two different mechanics:
Karine Strandos, MSc student, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
Abstract:
In this ongoing master´s thesis, the aim is to research whether it is technically feasible and economical viable to produce green hydrogen from trapped hydropower. The project is based on a case study from a location in Indre Sogn. It initially includes an analysis of hydropower data, considering production both with and without a reservoir. Further, the potential of hydrogen production has been calculated. A sensitivity analysis has also been carried out to assess impact on the potential of hydrogen production when adjusting the installed capacity and cut-off limit of the electrolyzer. Ongoing work involves calculating the profitability of the project, assessing storage solutions at site, as well as potential end-users both locally and nationally. Finally, the project will be evaluated from a sustainability perspective.
Bio:
Karine Strandos has a bachelor’s degree in Energy Technology at the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences. Currently, she is finishing her master’s degree in Sustainable Energy Technology at the same institute, to become a civil engineer. Her thesis is involved within the research group HyValue, assessing the possibility of producing green hydrogen from trapped hydropower. Her studies are combined with a part time position as a consultant at Norconsult AS.
Ingrid Marie Stuen, PhD candidate, University of Bergen.
Abstract:
Hydrogen has the potential to play an important role in reducing CO2 emissions in the energy sector. On a national and international scale, there are strategies to further develop and deploy the hydrogen energy sector in the coming years. Within Europe, pipelines are deemed the most cost-efficient option for long-distance, high-volume hydrogen transport between supply regions and demand clusters. National gas networks are planned in several countries in Europe. These networks can have many producers delivering gas and many off-takers extracting from the network. One challenge in these networks is to detect leaks and measurement errors that can affect gas allocation. Hydrogen leakage also has a significant environmental impact and must be minimized. In this work, mass balance is proposed as a method that can be used to detect leaks and measurement errors. The mass balance in the network can be calculated based on measurements from metering stations at entry and exit points in a network, measuring gas flow and composition. In these calculations, one must also consider the amount of gas stored in the pipelines to account for line packing. The measured imbalance must be compared to the uncertainty of the mass balance calculation to determine whether it is within the expected uncertainty. To detect that a measured imbalance is not within the uncertainty range, it may be necessary to accumulate measurements over a longer period. The time it takes to detect an imbalance depends on the size of the imbalance, measurement uncertainties, and the expected correlation between different measurements. Further, other measurements and methods may need to be combined with mass balance to trace the imbalance back to its source, whether it is a leak or a systematic measurement error.
Bio:
Ingrid Marie Stuen is a PhD candidate in measurement science at the Department of Physics and Technology at the University of Bergen. Her PhD is part of the HyMe (Reliable metering in hydrogen supply chains) project. The PhD focuses on methodologies for detecting losses and quality degradation in hydrogen supply chains.
Tobias Farsund Sydberger, MSc student, University of Bergen.
Abstract:
Kobika Venugopalavanithasan, MSc student, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
Abstract:
As global resource shortages and environmental crises intensify, hydrogen energy has gained attention as a renewable and clean energy source. Water splitting is a promising, non-polluting method for hydrogen production, but the slow kinetics and high overpotential of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) limit its efficiency. Enhancing HER efficiency is key to improving electrolysis for large-scale hydrogen production. This study focused on the synthesis method and performance of Samarium Tungstate (SW) as an electrode material for the HER in alkaline electrolytes. The SW was synthesized using the sonochemical coprecipitation method and was confirmed by using powder XRD and SEM/EDX analysis. The XRD peaks of prepared SW confirmed the Sm2(WO4)3 phase with monoclinic crystal structure. Superior catalytic activity was analysed using electrochemical parameters such as CV, LSV, EIS, and CA. Additionally, the overpotential, which is the excess potential required to drive the HER above its thermodynamic potential, was recorded as 201mV at the current density of 10mAcm-2.
Kjartan Yri, MSc student, University of Bergen.
Abstract:
Accurate and traceable measurement systems are essential for hydrogen to become a tradable commodity comparable to oil and gas. This study explores the use of electromagnetic sensing technology to measure the dielectric properties of hydrogen gas, which are influenced by impurities introduced during production and along the hydrogen value chain. Such impurities pose risks to infrastructure, particularly sensitive components like fuel cells. By monitoring changes in the dielectric constant, it is possible to gain insights into both the composition and concentration of these impurities.
Building on previous work by Skaar, who developed and tested a cylindrical resonant cavity sensor using nitrogen (N₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and their mixtures, this project extends the approach to hydrogen-based mixtures. An experimental setup was established at the energy lab at NORCE in Fantoft, allowing controlled mixing of hydrogen with other gases and pressure variation between 0 and 50 bar. Since the dielectric constant is pressure-dependent, understanding its variation is key to improving impurity detection at low concentrations.
Safety and pressure stability were major priorities, given hydrogen’s flammability and reactivity. Thorough risk assessments were conducted for high-pressure operations. The results show that the dielectric constant can be measured with an uncertainty of 4 × 10⁻⁴, in line with previous results for N₂ and CO₂, confirming the repeatability of the sensor. Additionally, the slope of the dielectric constant as a function of pressure provides valuable information about the identity of gases present in the mixture.
Bio:
Kjartan Yri is a master's student in Ocean Technology at the University of Bergen (UiB), specializing in Instrumentation. His thesis, conducted in collaboration with NORCE and UiB, focuses on the development of a microwave resonator sensor for detecting impurities in hydrogen gas. The project builds on previous work involving gas mixture sensing and extends it to hydrogen environments, with a strong emphasis on pressure control, safety, and measurement accuracy. Most of the experimental work has been carried out at NORCE Energy lab at Fantoft.
Stephen Taylor, Strategic Coordinator, North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley
Abstract:
The “North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley” with the participation of the governments of Slovenia, Croatian and the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia is the first transnational project aimed at developing a dedicated hydrogen valley. The project came about following an agreement between Croatia, Slovenia, and the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, with the aim of establishing a framework for cooperation in developing environmentally friendly hydrogen-production technologies. This collaboration will not only contribute to transitioning to an integrated ecosystem involving the energy, industry, and transport sectors, but will also allow cooperation in research and innovation, to develop a hydrogen supply chain. In this keynote presentation Taylor will give an overview of how the NAHV initiative came about, how it’s ambitious objectives were defined and what we have learned so far from the experience gained during in its first years of implementation, including problems encountered and how they have been overcome, plus the future development of the initiative including follow on projects. The presentation will cover issues such as gaining political consensus, involvement of key stakeholders from industry and the research community, achieving collaboration across sectors and maintaining balance between production, storage, distribution and utilisation. Other themes include successfully dealing with competing priorities and developing strategies to launch further projects under the umbrella of the NAHV initiative.
Key Points to be addressed:
Svein Olav Halstensen, NORCE.
Abstract:
The RIMARC software developed together with MIT Ocean Research predicts wave patterns, wave forces and vessel motions for the next 4-8 minutes from standard X-band navigation radars for stand-still (DP) operation and is further developed for free-sailing.
The RIMARC system is installed by Kongsberg Maritime on the DOF vessels Skandi Africa and Skandi Vega that is in operation for Equinor.
A commercialization project is carried out to be able to integrate RIMARC as separate software modules for decision support system applications in the Kongsberg KIMS integrated monitoring system, and for more accurate DP dynamic positioning control.
Because of the high cost of green fuels the energy consumptions need to be minimized. Next minutes prediction of wave forces enable to use battery power to reduce load variation and energy consumption by typically 10%. For hydrogen-battery systems, optimizing of hydrogen power and reduced load variation on fuel-cells will both increase efficiency and reduce degradation of fuel-cells. Fuel-cell battery systems will be most competitive on vessels that is also operating long periods at low power. Hydrogen fuel-cell systems have about twice as high efficiency as diesels at low power leading to total energy savings between 20 to 50%.
We have a WaveLab with a Furuno radar on the top of the NORCE office building in Haugesund to test and optimize new systems. RIMARC is just to be installed on a container vessels to check wave and motion predictions against measured power variation and vessel motions in waves. MIT Ocean Research have already calculated Response Amplitude Operators RAO by their QBEM software to enable onboard next minutes predictions of wave forces and motions.
Bio:
Svein Olav Halstensen has since 2017 been project leader for the development of the NORCE RIMARC system predicting next minutes waves and vessel motions from the onboard navigation radars in cooperation with MIT, Kongsberg, Equinor and DOF.
He graduated from NTNU Maritime Technology in 1984.
He has special competence in marine hydrodynamics as resistance, propulsion, sea-keeping, DP station keeping and manoeuvring. In 2008 he received the Wartsila Technology Innovation & Award for the development of the PropaC efficiency rudder that was patented by him in 1998.
He has broad experience with multi-discipline research projects and was project leader for the development of the Wartsila “Design Optimizer” tool. This software enabled fast optimizing of total vessel solutions, including machinery and propulsion systems, for the actual operation profile
Bjarte G. B. Solheim, HVL.
Bio:
Bjarte G. B. Solheim is Associate Professor in Hydrogen Technology at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL), with an additional position as Senior Researcher in NORCE’s Space & Energy Technology group, which he previously led while it was part of Clara Venture Labs (formerly Prototech AS). He has extensive experience in developing and managing PEM fuel cell and electrolyser projects, primarily focusing on regenerative hydrogen energy systems for space applications.
Tor Martin Misund, Vestland County Municipality.
Abstract:
In 10 of 19 green hubs in Vestland, hydrogen plays an important role, both when it comes to phasing out fossil fuels but also when it comes to using secondary products from hydrogen production in new cross-sector value chains.
Bio:
Tor Martin Misund is senior advisor for renewable energy in Vestland County Municipality and is responsible for energy and grid connection in the Green Region Vestland project.
Rebecca Thorne, TØI.
Abstract:
A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts of high-speed passenger vessels employing lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and low-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (LT-PEMFCs) powered by hydrogen. The LT-PEMFC hybrid configuration was compared against vessels powered by battery-electric (LIB) systems and conventional internal combustion engines using fossil fuels. The assessment was based on modelled operational data for specific routes and further extended to consider the use of hydrofoil hulls in place of conventional catamarans. The modelling work included aspects of weight change due to zero-emission propulsion system requirements, as well the new hydrofoil or catamaran hull size (dimensions and weight) needed to carry it for the same transport unit activity. This means that the change in energy demands with a new propulsion system and hull is accounted for unlike in many studies that assume identical energy needs regardless of vessel weight and design changes. The results show that the use phase is the most important phase for resulting environmental impact and that the energy carrier production pathway is hence key to resulting environmental impacts.
Bio:
Rebecca Thorne is a senior researcher from TØI, Institute of transport economics. She holds a PhD degree in physical chemistry and has over 10 years of experience in research on low- and zero-emissions transportation and energy and industrial technology. She has a particular interest in environmental sustainability and quantifying environmental impacts of new technologies via application of life cycle assessment (LCA). Beside HyValue, she has been involved in projects with maritime applications (with vessel types including high speed passenger and fishing vessels), quantifying circularity aspects of lithium ion battery use for electric vehicles, and development of emerging battery technologies.
Dr. Falko Ueckerdt, Senior Lead - Hydrogen, electrification and industry transformation, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK).
Abstract:
Green hydrogen is critical for decarbonizing hard-to-electrify sectors, but it faces high costs and investment risks. In a recent paper in Nature Energy, we define and quantify the green hydrogen ambition and implementation gap, showing that meeting hydrogen expectations will remain challenging despite surging announcements of projects and subsidies. Tracking 190 projects over 3 years, we identify a wide 2023 implementation gap with only 7% of global capacity announcements finished on schedule. In contrast, the 2030 ambition gap towards 1.5 °C scenarios has been gradually closing as the announced project pipeline has nearly tripled to 422 GW within 3 years. However, we estimate that, without carbon pricing, realizing all these projects would require global subsidies of US$1.3 trillion (US$0.8–2.6 trillion range), far exceeding announced subsidies. Given past and future implementation gaps, policymakers must prepare for prolonged green hydrogen scarcity. Policy support needs to secure hydrogen investments, but should focus on applications where hydrogen is indispensable.
Bio:
Falko Ueckerdt (full CV, google scholar) is a senior scientist at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) leading the research on hydrogen, electrification and industry transformation. He is deputy head of the Energy Transition Lab of Research Department 3 - Transformation Pathways. Falko Ueckerdt is a contributing author of two IPCC reports (IPCC SRREN 2011, IPCC AR6 2022). In expert groups and research projects (national, EU, and international), he advises policy makers and international organizations such as the IEA or OECD-ITF. In the past, Falko Ueckerdt was managing director of the Australian-German Energy Transition Hub (2017-2020) and guest researcher at the Hanley Sustainability Institute of the University of Dayton, Ohio (2016). He worked on international energy planning for the International Renewable Energy Agency (2014/2015) and on e-mobility for the Boston Consulting Group (2009). Falko Ueckerdt studied physics (major) and economics (mandatory elective minor) at the Humboldt University Berlin and did his PhD at PIK (on renewable energy system integration) supervised by Ottmar Edenhofer, Bob Brecha and Gunnar Luderer.
Ingebjørg Telnes Wilhelmsen, Norsk Hydrogenforum.
Bio:
Ingebjørg Telnes Wilhelmsen is the Secretary General of the National Association Norwegian Hydrogen Forum. Ingebjørg has previously worked in The Norwegian Petroleum Industry Association and the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning (DSB). Ingebjørg holds a Law Degree (cand. Jur) from the University of Bergen (UiB), and Organizational Behaviour and Management from Norwegian Business School (BI Oslo).
Emilie Dorgeville, Maritime CleanTech.
Abstract:
The maritime sector faces increasing pressure to decarbonize, and green ammonia is emerging as a promising zero-emission fuel. The Apollo project, co-funded by the EU, is leading efforts to demonstrate ammonia’s viability through the world’s first retrofit of an offshore vessel to ammonia dual-fuel propulsion. The platform supply vessel Viking Energy—chartered by Equinor—will begin commercial operations in 2026 with at least 70% emissions reduction compared to conventional fuels.
This presentation will share the project's goals, technical approach, and learnings so far, including engine integration, ammonia storage and safety, and replication. Apollo brings together shipowners and operators, technology providers, end-users, experts in propulsion systems, ship designers and safety experts.
With its fast-track and collaborative approach, Apollo aims to accelerate ammonia uptake in shipping and provide a scalable model for future retrofits and vessel designs.
Bio:
Emilie Dorgeville is a Project Manager for Innovation & EU project at Maritime CleanTech. With 20+ years of experience in maritime innovation, engineering, and project leadership, she specializes in collaborative projects that accelerate the green transition in shipping. Emilie currently leads the EU-funded Apollo project, focusing on the first ammonia-fueled offshore vessel retrofit. Her expertise bridges technical development and cross-industry coordination, making her a key contributor to Norway’s maritime decarbonization strategy.
Kim Talus, University of Helsinki, also member of HyValue Scientific Advisory Committee.
Abstract:
The EU’s regulation of hydrogen, as it currently, stands, is centered around 'renewable fuels of non-biological origin' (RFNBO). This focus appears too complicated, detailed and too narrow to unlock the vast potential of the full hydrogen bandwidth, thereby failing to stimulate the volumes necessary for creating a market and achieving real sustainability impacts.
Simultaneously, the approach departs from the established principle of technology neutrality. Instead, it represents a 'one technology preference' by focusing on electrolyzers. Consequently, regulatory favoritism for RFNBO may drive investments towards a commercially untested technology without allowing the markets to pick the winners.
The inherent risk of falling short of "ensuring sufficient availability and affordability" of RFNBO, e.g., in aviation or maritime transport, is explicitly recognized by the 2023 update of the EU's Renewable Energy Directive. Now also confirmed by the EU Court of Auditors and the EU energy agency – for good reasons: there are many unresolved challenges to the production ramp-up:
Firstly, the rules for RFNBO production are too detailed and create a straitjacket that makes production difficult and inefficient. This concerns, for example, the “temporal correlation” requirement.
Secondly, the amount of renewable electricity needed for producing the required volumes is difficult to achieve. The 2030 targets for RFNBO require almost doubling the EU's production of wind and solar power.
Thirdly, there is a bottleneck in the manufacturing of all the electrolyzers that are needed for producing the necessary volumes of RFNBO by 2030 and beyond.
Meanwhile, there are other viable production methods. For example, hydrogen can be produced by the decomposition of methane via pyrolysis or thermal-plasma. The end-products are hydrogen and carbon black. The carbon intensity of this hydrogen is very low if produced on the basis of conventional methane, or carbon negative if renewable methane is used. No gaseous CO2 is produced and solid carbon can be marketed as a product. This process requires 4–5 times less electricity than electrolysis, while renewable electricity is scarce already today.
Another low-carbon option is nuclear-based hydrogen. There is a push from many EU countries in favour of this approach. Recognizing nuclear-based hydrogen on an equal footing would better reflect national circumstances and sovereignty over national energy choices (Article 194 TFEU); the technology and the expertise are readily available today.
These problems concern primarily the EU production of hydrogen and its derivatives. When the EU RFNBO framework is applied in third-countries, these same problems combine with many others, translating to a very difficult environment for investment decisions in third-countries.
The talk will address these problems and propose changes.
Bio:
Kim Talus is a Professor of European Energy Law at UEF Law School and he serves as a Director of its Center for Climate Change, Energy and Environmental Law (CCEEL) as well as Professor of Energy Law at University of Helsinki. He is also a Founding Partner at the Swiss energy law firm Energy & Regulation Partners in Zug where he focusses on power-to-X projects and low-carbon gases. Furthermore, he is also the Honorary Editor-in-Chief at OGEL Energy Law Journal.
From 2018 to 2023, Kim held the James McCulloch Chair in Energy Law at Tulane University in the US and was the founding Director of the Tulane Center for Energy Law.
His extensive experience in research and consultancy has centered around international, comparative and European energy law and regulation. He has authored and co-authored more than 200 publications. Talus’ work has awarded him with many recognitions and his research has also been referenced by the European Court of Justice.
Kim has extensive experience in the energy sector where his activities have included regulation of hydrogen and power-to-X technologies and markets, studies on the role and responsibilities of energy market regulators, advice on electricity and gas market regulation, expert work in nuclear and energy infrastructure disputes, work relating to natural gas and LNG regulation and contracts as well as advocacy work in relation to certain power generation technologies. His current focus is on hydrogen and low-carbon fuels where he has assisted investors in EU and third countries.