On Wednesday, 12 November, the event ‘Hydrogen as the key to the energy transition’ took place at Technopark Winterthur. The evening not only inspired the approximately 90 attendees with powerful keynotes and a lively discussion panel, but also sent a clear signal regarding the cluster initiative in the city of Winterthur.
Green hydrogen is one of the most promising drivers of the energy transition. It is therefore not surprising that the cluster event at Technopark Winterthur focused on the role of green hydrogen in the global energy system, research in Switzerland, and specific areas of application for the economy. Technopark Winterthur is delighted that, despite the specialised topic, around 90 visitors found their way to the Technopark.
After a brief welcome and introduction to the Technopark ecosystem by TPW Managing Director Stève Mérillat, Veronika Schelling, Hydrogen Mobility & Energy Leader at Burckhardt Compression, kicked off with her introductory presentation.
The colourful world of hydrogen
In her keynote speech, Veronika Schelling took the time to explore the topic of hydrogen from the ground up. Among other things, she showed which colours represent which types of production. Green hydrogen in particular – and later in the discussion, white hydrogen as well – came into the spotlight. At the same time, she did not remain on the surface, but provided depth of content at the crucial points, thereby sharpening the framework for the two following keynotes.
Research projects in Switzerland
Prof. Dr. Markus Friedl, Head of the Institute of Energy Technology at the University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland, followed on from Schelling’s remarks and gave a comprehensive overview of green hydrogen research in Switzerland. Using well-founded statistics, key figures and forecasts, he impressively demonstrated the current development of hydrogen technologies. He also provided insights into specific research projects such as the Innosuisse Flagship GreenHub, which is attempting to balance seasonal energy differences through energy storage. Hydrogen offers enormous potential, particularly in the field of energy storage.
Practical and industrial relevance
After looking at research, Veronika Schelling focused on current industrial practice in her second keynote speech. Drawing on her many years of experience in the polymer, oil & gas and hydrogen industries, she outlined the current use of compressor technology and its potential for storing hydrogen – and thus energy.
Lively discussion with the audience
After the two keynote speeches, TPW Managing Director Stève Mérillat opened the discussion and question-and-answer session with the audience, which was well utilised. For around 30 minutes, interested visitors asked numerous questions, put forward theories and made pointed statements. The role of politics in dealing with hydrogen was a particular topic of discussion. The still little-researched role of white hydrogen – i.e. naturally occurring deposits in the earth – also stimulated thought and discussion. The exchange then continued over a relaxed aperitif organised by the TPW Bistro powered by mimicus.
Cluster initiative shows its potential
The event highlighted the importance of the cluster initiative for Winterthur as a centre of business and innovation. Not only does it showcase pioneering technologies and developments, it also brings key players within reach. All of this contributes significantly to the healthy and dynamic development of the Winterthur region.
